Richard Yap reacts to teleserye postponement

MANILA – While he was already looking forward to the upcoming series "Someone to Watch Over Me," Richard Yap on Wednesday stressed that he completely understands why ABS-CBN management had to postpone the show and wait for Judy Ann Santos instead.

Santos, 37, announced her pregnancy with husband Ryan Agoncillo last week.

Speaking to ABS-CBN News, Yap said health always comes first and he recognizes that Santos would not be able to do some scenes because of her condition.

“In a way, of course [may panghihinayang]. Kasi everyone was ready to start the show already. Lahat kami naghihintay na. Actually nakapag-pilot taping na rin kami. But since it’s for her health, siyempre naiintindihan namin ‘yun,” he said.

In the show, Santos plays the role of an NBI agent who meets a business tycoon portrayed by Yap.

“Buntis siya and her role requires action. Naintindihan namin na hindi niya pwede gawin ‘yun. We are happy that she’s pregnant because that’s what she really wanted. Hindi lang naka-timing ‘yung show namin so we’ll just have to wait,” he said.

Aside from Yap and Santos, other cast members include Diether Ocampo, Eddie Garcia and Tirso Cruz III.

While they wait for Santos’ return, Yap will be busy with his new "Wansapanataym" miniseries "My Kung Fu Chinito," which will also feature Enchong Dee.

“Magaan katrabaho si Enchong. Parati lang kami nagtatawanan. Magaling siyang artista so kahit na yung mga actions scenes na first time niya gagawin, ang dalil lang niya natutunana kaagad,” he said.

Yap also said he is delighted to be given an action series for the first time.

“This is a very welcome show kasi hindi siya mabigat. Hindi siya romance angle. It’s something that I haven’t tried which is action. It’s a refreshing show, pambata siya,” he said.

“I have a background in martial arts. Nag taekwondo ako dati, aikido, Chinese kung fu. Medyo matigas na lang yung katawan kasi matagal na hindi ginagawa pero naibabalik naman,” he added.

"My Kung Fu Chinito" will premiere on June 21.