Fans gave Liza Soberano a hero’s welcome fit for this generation’s newest Darna when she graced the recently held ToyCon 2017 at the SMX Convention Center, where ABS-CBN also formally launched the Ravelo Komiks Superheroes merchandise.
Liza drew the loudest cheers as she formally opened the event via a ribbon cutting ceremony alongside international stars such as Stefan Kapicic from Deadpool, Lindsey McKeon from Supernatural, Karen Fukuhara from Suicide Squad, Charlie Bewley from Twilight, and Kevin Mcnally from Pirates of the Caribbean.
“I’m very happy to be with people who keep our comic industry alive because this is where Darna really started,” said Liza.
Aside from ToyCon attendees, Liza also got the chance to finally meet the Ravelo family when she visited the Ravelo Komiks Superhero booth that featured not only Darna but also Captain Barbell and Lastikman merchandise plus the licensed statues of Darna, Captain Barbell, Lastikman, and Valentina.
“They were really warm and they welcomed me to the Mars Ravelo world. I am really happy to meet them and I hope one day I can pass the legacy and make them proud,” shared Liza.
As a gift, the Ravelos gave Liza the first four panels of the first Darna Komiks with a dedication that read, “The magical stone has been passed on to many and after a long search, luckily you have been chosen to continue Darna’s courage and greatness. Thank you for accepting!”
To cap off her visit, Liza had a meet-and-greet with select fans and gamely posed with them for selfies.
Another highlight in the ToyCon 2017 is awarding of the Pinoy Pop Culture Icon to Mars Ravelo for his significant contributions in the comic industry.
When asked what she thought of portraying Darna, the young actress admitted that doing action is totally new to her and that she is excited to start filming the project.
“I am very excited but I am also nervous because it’s the first time that I would be doing anything like this. I have always been doing romance and comedy films. Doing an action film for the first time is something different and something I am excited to tackle. I am very excited for everyone to watch it,” she explained.
Watch out for Liza as she takes flight as the newest Darna in the movie to be directed by Erik Matti under the production of Star Cinema.