“Kumusta po kayo?”
In true Filipino custom, this was how Filipino-Canadian actor Manny Jacinto greeted his fans during the Philippine premiere of his latest movie, “Freakier Friday,” on Tuesday, August 5.
READ: ‘Sobrang excited to be here’: Manny Jacinto says being back in Manila feels like a dream
Manny, who was born in Manila, plays the role of Eric Reyes in the movie.
The Filipino word counter kept rising as he charmed the crowd with phrases like “Maraming salamat po,” “Mahal kita,” “Sobrang excited,” and more.
He also shared that this film marks his first time playing a father on screen. Referring to his character’s daughter, he affectionately said, “anak.”
Manny also gamely joined a round of the popular Pinoy Henyo game, even using the Filipino word “puwede” to mean “can be” during the challenge.
Throughout the event, he repeatedly thanked his fans in Filipino for their support, smiling, waving at the crowd, taking selfies, and signing posters and collectibles.
After the fan meet, Manny welcomed guests to the premiere and once again expressed his gratitude for their support of both him and the film.
“Sana mag-enjoy kayo. Maraming salamat,” he said.
“And again, mahal kita,” Manny also said.
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When complimented on his fluent use of Filipino, Manny shared that he had been practicing.
“Thank you. I’ve been practicing,” he said, bowing.
The actor of Filipino descent also earned praise online, with some noting that his visit coincided with “Buwan ng Wika.” MYX VJ Samm Alvero even jokingly dubbed Manny the “Taglish king.”
“@mannyjacinto said Maligayang Buwan ng Wika,” Samm wrote on her Instagram Story.
Meanwhile, Manny’s film “Freakier Friday” is now showing in cinemas nationwide. He stars alongside a powerhouse cast that includes Jamie Lee Curtis, Lindsay Lohan, Julia Butters, Sophia Hammons, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Rosalind Chao, and Chad Michael Murray.
READ: Manny Jacinto to grace red carpet premiere of ‘Freakier Friday’ in Manila
