Ruru Madrid catches the biggest break of his career headlining GMA Network’s biggest adventure-serye yet “Lolong.”

Created by GMA Public Affairs, the show is about a brave, young man and his extraordinary friendship with a giant crocodile named, Dakila.

Together, they are to fight for survival.

 Ruru feels quite lucky to have been given such an opportunity, deeming it a dream come true.

“Gusto ko talaga gumawa ng action series kahit noong nag-uumpisa palang ako sa showbiz. Ito talaga ang pangarap ko,” he told us in a interview.

That it landed on his lap coinciding with his 10^th year in the ‘biz proved a huge boon.

“Yeah. This is my 10th year in showbiz at ito ang project na ibinigay sa akin. I feel so lucky at ganito kaganda ‘yung materyal namin, ganito kaganda ‘yung cast. I’m so grateful,” shared Ruru. 

Eager to prove his abilities as action star, Ruru did all of his action scenes sans double.

He injured himself at one point but it didn’t stop him from completing the show.

“I have to, alam kong maraming umaasa sa show na ito kaya pinilit ko tapusin kahit may iniinda akong sakit,” the actor shared.

Joining Ruru in this series as his leading ladies are co-Sparkle artists Shaira Diaz and Arra San Agustin who play the roles of Elsie and Bella, respectively. 

Elsie is Lolong’s loyal friend. Their friendship will blossom into something deeper but will be tested by various forces.

Bella, on the other hand, is a mysterious personality that will leave viewers guessing if she is a friend or foe. 

Off-cam, Shaira and Arra have created a strong bond.

 “Bago pa man, solid ‘yung samahan namin, yung naging pagkakaibigan namin ni Arra,” said Shaira. “Parang kapatid ko na siya. Si Ruru din, di niya pinaparamdam na may lamang sa aming dalawa.”

 Arra promised viewers that they will be glued to their screen watching “Lolong.”

She said, “Hindi predictable ‘yung love story dito. Abangan nila ang mga mangyayari.”

The rest of the powerhouse cast: Christopher de Leon, Jean Garcia, Bembol Roco, Malou de Guzman, Rochelle Pangilinan, Paul Salas, and Ian de Leon.

Adding more color to the series are Marco Alcaraz, DJ Durano, Mikoy Morales, and Maui Taylor.

Set to portray special roles in the series are Gina Pareno, Pokwang, Mon Confiado, Ryan Eigenmann, Leandro Baldemor, and Abby Viduya.  

Note that Dakila, fondly referred to as the “highest paid actor in the series,” is made of fiberglass and silicone.

To make him move like a real crocodile, the production team used pneumatic technology and an air compressor, as well as computer-generated imagery (CGI).

Cast and crew are in awe of the creature.

 “This is going to be a very entertaining teleserye, I am sure of that. This is going to be a roller-coaster ride for everyone. I am proud of this project,” said Christopher. 

The idea of creating a crocodile-themed drama series came from award-winning broadcast journalist and GMA News pillar Jessica Soho and Assistant Vice President for GMA Public Affairs LJ Castel.

 “Lolong” is another primetime offering produced by GMA Public Affairs—the same department behind some of the country’s hit TV series, “Inday Will Always Love You,” “One of the Baes,” “Owe My Love,” and “Love You Stranger,” as well as the well-loved series that showcased stunning cinematography and superb visual narratives such as “The Lost Recipe,” “Ilustrado,” “Alamat,” and “Sirkus,” among others.

 The Clash Season 2 Champion Jeremiah Tiangco sang the series’ official theme song, “214,” which was originally sung by Rivermaya. 

Directing Lolong are Rommel Penesa and Conrado Peru. 

“Lolong” airs July 4 on GMA Telebabad after “24 Oras.”  Kapuso abroad can catch it as well via GMA Pinoy TV.