Newbie actor Mark Ian Garcia is filled with gratitude as he marks a major milestone in his career: his first-ever teleserye, A Secret in Prague.
The series, starring Enrique Gil and Andrea Brillantes, premiered on TV5 on April 27, 2026.
Mark joined the cast in a key supporting role.
Read: Kumusta ang ratings ng A Secret in Prague at My Bespren Emman?
In an email exchange with PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) coursed through ALV Talent Management, Mark shared how meaningful the opportunity is, especially since he earned the role through audition.
He told PEP: "I auditioned for the role. When I found out about it, I immediately got excited—especially when I learned that I would potentially play the younger brother of Enrique Gil.
"I really gave my all during the audition process. We had a getting-to-know interview with the director and writer, and I also performed scenes for them. I made sure to fully show who I am as an actor and how much I wanted the role."
The project was co directed by Barry Gonzales and Paco Sta. Maria and written by Mark Duane Angos.
Landing a role in the series was something he wished for. But there was a point when he thought he did not make it after not hearing back from the show.
The 22-year-old model and content creator recalled: "At first, I honestly thought I didn’t get the role because it had already been about a month, and I hadn’t heard anything. So I slowly let go of the expectation.
"Then one day, my road manager called and said she had good news and bad news.
"The ‘bad news’ was that I was about to get very busy—and the good news was that I got the role.
"I felt pure happiness. It was one of those moments that’s hard to put into words.”
For Mark, the experience became a lesson in patience and timing, especially after a year of waiting for the right acting opportunity.
"I had already been signed with TV5 for a year and was starting to question why I hadn’t landed an acting project yet—even a small one.
"That moment reminded me that good things really take time, and sometimes, something even bigger is being prepared for you. I’m just very grateful for this opportunity."
MARK IAN GARCIA role IN A SECRET IN PRAGUE
The long wait proved to be worth it, as Mark secured an important role connected to Enrique Gil’s character in the series.
Talking about his character, Mark shared, "I play Angelito D. Pinagpala, the younger brother of Mikoy D. Pinagpala, portrayed by Enrique Gil.
"Angelito is the bunso of the family—he’s smart, studious, and has a very pure, almost sheltered perspective in life since he grew up in the province.
"He has that 'hindi makabasag pinggan' kind of personality.
"He’s actually a big reason why Mikoy goes to Prague. Mikoy wants to support Angelito’s dream of studying in Manila, believing that education will help them build a better future.
"So in many ways, Angelito is the heart of his kuya’s motivation."
To prepare for the role, Mark underwent intensive acting workshops under film director Rahyan Carlos, the only accredited teacher of the Chubbuck Technique in the Philippines.
"I completed both introductory and advanced acting workshops under Direk Rahyan Carlos, where we studied the Chubbuck technique," he shared.
"That training really helped me connect more deeply with my character and approach scenes with more intention and truth."
Beyond formal training, Mark is also learning on set, guided by the show’s directors Barry Gonzales and Paco Sta. Maria.
Talking about the lessons he picked up, Mark said, “One of the biggest lessons I learned is the importance of presence of mind as an actor.
“I was taught to fully understand not just my character, but also the characters I’m interacting with and the story behind every scene. It’s about being present, listening, and reacting truthfully in the moment.”
ON ANDREA BRILLANTES AND ENRIQUE GIL
Mark also expressed gratitude for co-stars Andrea and Enrique, who have helped him adjust to the set.
The young actor said, "Working with Andrea Brillantes and Enrique Gil was such a light and comfortable experience. They’re both very accommodating and make sure everyone feels at ease on set."
Mark continued, "It’s been a very collaborative and supportive environment. Both Andrea and Enrique are generous when it comes to sharing their knowledge and experience.
"Being around them motivates me to keep improving, and they really set a good example of professionalism on set."
Read: Andrea Brillantes and Enrique Gil weigh in on love teams
Mark is especially grateful to Enrique, who not only portrays his "kuya" in the series but also took on that role in real life, extending his support beyond their on-screen scenes.
"Enrique, especially, was very supportive—he really took on that kuya role not just in the story, but even behind the scenes.
"He would guide me and help me feel more confident, especially during our scenes together."
One of his most memorable moments on set was sharing his first scene with Enrique.
"My first day on set will always be unforgettable—especially my very first scene, which was with Enrique Gil.
"It was both nerve-wracking and exciting at the same time. But thanks to him, I felt guided and more at ease. That experience really helped boost my confidence early on in the project."
As for filming in Prague, Mark clarified that his character remains in the Philippines.
Mark clarified, "I didn’t get to go to Prague since my character stays in the Philippines. In the story, it’s Mikoy who goes abroad to work so he can support Angelito’s education in Manila."
TEAMUP WITH QUEENAY MERCADO
In the series, Mark is paired with fellow newbie actress Queenay Mercado, who plays Sophie, his character’s love interest.
"Working with Queenay Mercado has been such a fun and easy experience. She’s very natural and comfortable to work with.
"I’m really excited for the audience to see our scenes together because we worked hard to make them feel genuine and relatable."
For now, Mark is focused on ongoing tapings for A Secret in Prague and looks forward to growing in the industry.
"Right now, my focus is on A Secret in Prague as we continue with tapings.
"But more than anything, I’m excited for people to witness my growth. This is just the beginning for me—and I hope the audience grows with me through every project I take on."
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