Filipino audiences will always have a soft spot for BJ Forbes. Mention his name, and most people instantly picture “Tolits“—the precocious kid who stole hearts in a iconic detergent commercial before solidifying his place as a fan-favorite child host on Eat Bulaga!
Decades after his breakout, with an impressive lineup of fantasy hits, sitcoms, and films under his belt, Forbes is far from resting on his laurels. Rather than relying solely on years of industry experience, the former child star is actively sharpening his edge and reshaping his artistic trajectory.Forbes recently completed The Masters Series: FDCP Acting Workshop for Filipino Talents 2026, an elite and highly competitive intensive program backed by the Film Development Council of the Philippines. For Forbes, simply passing the rigorous audition process was a grounding experience in itself.
“I didn’t expect to get accepted from the auditions, knowing that legends would be teaching and so many people were interested,” Forbes shared, admitting he was initially caught off guard by the opportunity.
The program was structured into three demanding phases, each spearheaded by heavyweight directors in Philippine cinema:
Phase 1: Emotional Vulnerability with Laurice Guillen & Ana Guillen Feleo
The opening leg pushed participants to tear down their emotional walls. Forbes noted that while opening up to a room full of strangers felt daunting at first, it quickly fostered a deep, essential trust among the actors.
Phase 2: Industry Realities with Jose Javier “Direk Joey” Reyes
The FDCP Chairperson and CEO took the reins for the second phase, anchoring the performers in the practical, day-to-day realities of the Philippine entertainment landscape while reigniting their underlying passion for the craft.
Phase 3: Grit and Endurance with Joel Lamangan
Direk Joel led the grueling final stretch, instilling the relentless work ethic, stamina, and resilience required to weather demanding sets and build a sustainable, long-term career.
“It was an experience that I will forever treasure,” Forbes added.
With a resume that already includes television staples like Maalaala Mo Kaya, Pangako Sa ‘Yo, and the recent action-drama Black Rider, Forbes didn’t look at the program as a simple refresher course. Instead, he views The Masters Series as a defining turning point—one that has fortified him with the emotional depth, intellectual discipline, and practical tools needed for the next chapter of his acting journey.