Award-winning actor John Arcilla is returning to GMA Network, taking on a new role in the much-anticipated second season of ‘Lolong,’ now titled ‘Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan.’

Arcilla will bring his renowned depth to the character of Julio Figueroa, a wealthy businessman and underground fighting ring leader with a thirst for power and influence.

At the show’s story conference and cast reveal, Arcilla expressed his enthusiasm for the role, citing the intricate and “believable” layers of Julio’s character.

“Ako kasi usually kahit gumagawa ako ng kontrabida, hinahapan ko ‘yung part ng character na totoo at pwede mangyari sa isang tao. Ayoko gumawa ng kontrabida na caricature, na parang cartoons na walang pinanggalingan,” Arcilla shared. He further described Julio as someone who justifies his actions to achieve his goals, making the character’s strength also his weakness.

Set four years after the original storyline, ‘Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan’ follows Ruru Madrid’s titular hero as he continues his journey as a masked peacekeeper in his small town. This season, Lolong will face off against Julio’s protégé Ivan (Martin Del Rosario) in his quest for a powerful crystal, following a tragedy that strikes his beloved Elsie, played by Shaira Diaz.

‘Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan’ is set to premiere on GMA Network on January 20, 2025, marking an exciting return for both the show and Arcilla, who fans can currently watch in ‘Pamilya Sagrado’ with Piolo Pascual, Kyle Echarri, and Grae Fernandez.