Miguel Tanfelix in his most challenging role

MANILA, Philippines - At 15, GMA Artist Center talent Miguel Tanfelix still carries that good-boy charm that endeared him to the audience of StarStruck Kids 10 years ago. After being dubbed as StarStruck Kids’ First Prince and playing minor roles in a slew of drama series, a lot has changed in Miguel.

Miguel’s portrayal of his role in GMA Telebabad’s Niño is a testament to this; and Miguel’s friend Bianca Umali bears witness. “Ibang Miguel ‘yung nakatrabaho ko ngayon. Of course, in a good way,” says Bianca. “He is more focused at parang may pinaghuhugutan talaga.”

Before Niño, Miguel and Bianca have worked together in Paroa: Ang Kwento ni Mariposa and Mga Basang Sisiw.

While Miguel enjoys the praises he gets, he is taking the compliments in stride. His lead role as a mentally-challenged boy is not the easiest he has portrayed, but he’s taking it as a challenge.

“’I’m really blessed to have been given a break like this. Matagal din po akong naghintay na bumida sa isang drama series. Iniisip ko po noon, may perfect timing naman sa mga pangarap ko, kaya tiyaga-tiyaga lang,” says the StarStruck alum.

Niño revolves around a mentally-challenged boy who becomes his town’s source of inspiration. Upon meeting a boy named Tukayo, who is an incarnate of Sto. Niño (played by David Remo), Niño will prove that nothing is impossible as long as faith and hope are kept alive.

For Miguel’s role as Niño, he took inspiration from his portrayal of Boyito, a special child featured on GMA’s Sine Novela titled Tinik sa Dibdib. He also immersed himself in workshops, diligently mastering his craft.

“I always remind myself to not take this opportunity for granted,” says Miguel.

He’s also driven to hone his acting skills, especially now that he’s working alongside veteran actors such as Gloria Romero and Dante Rivero to name a few.

Niño airs weeknights after 24 Oras on GMA Telebabad.