The Enchong ‘Dee’fference

Popular drama actor Enchong Dee is proud of his new project, in which he travels throughout the Philippines promoting the culture and heritage of the nation. “It’s a complete break from the heavy drama or comedy that I do on TV or on the big screen,” the actor says in this exclusive chat with tabloid!.

We heard you’re up to something totally new. Tell us about it.

Yes, I was tapped by the National Commission on Culture and Arts to be a Heritage Ambassador.

What does that mean and what do you do exactly?

I’ve been asked to promote various heritage sites throughout the country — as a tourism destination and to raise awareness about the cultural diversity and historical heritage of our country.

Many people tend to think of the country as just one big island with beautiful beaches and oversized malls. My job is to make sure people, especially the young ones, also visit and learn from the exciting cultural diversity that we have.

We should also visit historical sites that will help us appreciate what our nation has gone through to become what it is today.

You must have gone to all of these heritage sites. Which ones are your favourite?

I actually have. Part of the job is to understand and share what I find exciting and insightful about them. I like them all to be honest. Even before this, I am such a travel buff and I’m the type to explore things. I haven’t visited all but the ones that I’ve been to are really remarkable. It’s different when you read about them from books in school and when you experience it and learn something out of it. I become more aware and have a better understanding of our culture and history. As an actor, it also helps me understand the Filipino mentality and that helps in my preparation for a role.

Speaking of roles, what movie or TV projects are you going to do next?

That is a good question, and I have a good answer [laughs]. I’m going to do a mature drama movie with Erich Gonzales, to be directed by Laurice Guillen. It’s still in the works, but we should be doing pre-production soon. This June, I will be travelling to Europe to attend Philippine Independence Day celebrations hosted by TFC [The Filipino Channel] in Vienna, Rome and London. As soon as I’m back, I will be starting a new TV series for ABS CBN. I have no idea yet what it is, but I should be getting the script very soon.