Stuntman Rick Machida Shares Struggles After On-Set Injury
RICK MACHIDA – The character actor and stuntman opened up about the challenges he faced following a serious accident on the set of Batang Quiapo on March 3, 2023, at the Lacson Mansion in New Manila, Quezon City.
He revealed that his injuries, which left him unable to walk for two years and affected both his legs and an elbow, received no support from the production team. Rick expressed frustration that, while many publicly defend Coco Martin and the series as well-managed, his personal experience of being neglected during a critical time was ignored. He emphasized that even basic medical assistance was not provided, and after waiting three years for help from management, nothing came.
Meanwhile, Rod Navarro Jr., son of the late veteran actor Rod Navarro, shared his own experiences on the Batang Quiapo set. He claimed that he was insulted and mistreated by some members of the production team, which affected his confidence and emotional well-being during a challenging personal period.
Rod Jr. stressed that he performed his duties professionally but still faced verbal abuse, threats, and public humiliation, even after submitting medical records indicating internal injuries. He clarified that he had declined assistance from Coco Martin at the time due to these experiences but acknowledged the opportunities Coco had provided, emphasizing that his statements were intended to clarify the record and protect his dignity.
In response, talent manager and showbiz insider Ogie Diaz defended Coco Martin and the production. Ogie pointed out that Rod Jr. had previously reached out to express gratitude and request an interview, highlighting a contradiction between those messages and his later public claims. He also noted that Coco had given Rod Jr. roles, screen time, and even a temporary marshal position while he was out of work, as well as offered ₱100,000 to help him start a business, which Rod Jr. did not claim. Ogie emphasized that Rod Jr.’s character leaving the show was a natural part of the story and questioned the source of the actor’s anger.