MANILA - It's a fresh start for Mark Anthony Fernandez.

After more than a year in prison due to marijuana possession, his cased was dismissed in December 2017, paving the way for his release just three days before Christmas.

JUST IN: Mark Anthony Fernandez signs a management contract with VIVA ARTISTS AGENCY. Present is his supportive Mom Ms Alma Moreno

A post shared by VIVA ARTISTS (@vivaartistsagency) on Jan 24, 2018 at 11:15pm PST

And on Thursday, the former matinee idol not only turned a new leaf in his personal life, but also in his career, as he officially signed a management contract with Viva Artists Agency.

Fernandez, 39, was accompanied by his mother, actress-politician Alma Moreno, who expressed her full support for her son's showbiz comeback. He was welcomed by Viva executives led by Veronique del Rosario and founder Vic del Rosario.

Speaking with reporters after the contract signing, Fernandez opened up about regretting choices he had made, his hopes of a rejuvenated acting career, and what he learned during his time in jail.

"I learned that you always have to have connection with God, because there were days before and nights that I would sleep without praying to Him. But now I believe I should pray to him every day, every single day," he said.

Watch Fernandez's full interview below:

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