After His Release From Jail, Ricardo Cepeda Set to Return to FPJ’s Batang Quiapo
RICARDO CEPEDA – The actor is set to return to FPJ’s Batang Quiapo after a conversation with Coco Martin, who promised to help him following his release from jail.
Ricardo portrayed the character Richardson Wu in the ABS-CBN series, but his character suddenly disappeared in October 2023 when he became involved in a syndicated estafa case. As a result, Ricardo spent nearly a year in the Cagayan Provincial Jail in Tuguegarao, Cagayan Valley.
In an interview with Cabinet Files on September 23, 2024, Ricardo shared details of his discussion with Coco Martin, the show’s director, producer, and lead actor. Ricardo revealed that he reached out to Coco after his release, and Coco assured him that his character would return to Batang Quiapo, offering Ricardo a chance to recover financially. Ricardo expressed his relief, knowing he had a job waiting for him.
Ricardo explained that his character was supposed to have a major confrontation with Christopher de Leon’s character before his sudden arrest. To explain his absence, the show’s writers made it seem like his character had gone to Hong Kong.
Grateful for Coco’s support, Ricardo acknowledged the kindness of those willing to help him during such a difficult time. While he’s excited to act again, he admitted to feeling nervous about returning to the camera. Although his return is confirmed, Ricardo is still waiting to hear when taping will begin.
Ricardo also reunited with his two children, Sam and Sachi, from his ex-wife, Snooky Serna, after almost a year of separation due to his imprisonment. His children had wanted to visit him in jail, but Ricardo discouraged them from doing so, opting for Facetime calls instead. During their reunion, the family shared emotional moments, with his children telling Ricardo that his strength kept them strong during his ordeal. Ricardo responded that it was their strength that kept him going.
As for future plans, Ricardo is considering a vacation, with offers for trips abroad to help him relax, but he would need permission from the court to travel.