Matthew Mendoza takes on villain role in 'Dyosa'

By REYMA BUAN-DEVEZA
Source: abs-cbnNEWS.com

Former matinee idol Matthew Mendoza, who is now making a comeback through a television project with ABS-CBN’s television project, has his hands full getting adjusted to life in showbiz.

Mendoza was out of the limelight and had no showbiz projects for seven years before making his comeback as part of the cast of "Dyosa", as one of the villains opposing the lead character played by actress Anne Curtis.

“Yeah (I'm still comfortable)… kailangang mag-adjust ulit kasi medyo matagal din yung time na tumigil ako,” Mendoza said, adding that getting back to acting wasn't so hard.

What's new for him this time is that he is playing the bad guy. “Yes first time kong gagawa ng ganitong character dati palagi akong si Mr. Good Boy…first time kong gumawa ng fantaserye,” he said.

The actor will be playing the character of Bernardo Carpio. Carpio is a legendary figure in Philippine mythology who is said to be the cause of earthquakes.

Mendoza who took a break in showbiz during the peak of his career said he decided to quit acting to concentrate on taking care of his family and business.

“Actually business and family, my family comes first. Bata pa ang mga anak ko and I was married 1998 and I totally stopped in 2001. Talagang up to last year wala akong projects na tinanggap o ginawa.

Mendoza was one of Viva Films' most sought-after male leads. He said that he was "spoiled" during his time and given the chance to work with some of the industry's accomplished actresses.

His career blossomed with his introductory project “Dyesebel” with beauty queen Charlene Gonzales.

He also did light romance film “Brides Maids,” heavy drama movie “Ikaw Naman Ang Iiyak” with Dawn Zulueta, Sheryl Cruz and Gary Estrada.

He starred with Ina Raymundo in “Sabado Nights,” and “Nag-iisang Ikaw” with Mikee Cojuangco and Keempee de Leon.

Mendoza already had the experience of working with the Megastar Sharon Cuneta in “Nang Iniwan Mo Ako.”

The actor said that he will now be more open to do more projects but he will be choosing his roles since he is living in Palawan.

“Pipiliin ko iyong maganda, quality and talagang worth it," Mendoza said.

Mendoza’s last project in ABS-CBN was television series “Sa Puso Ko’y Iingatan” in 2001 with actress Judy Ann Santos and Piolo Pascual.

He was also part of “Kokey” in 2007.