I did not realize it had been a little more than a month since I ended my term, and to be honest, the transition wasn't as easy. After six years of fully dedicating my time to be of service to the film industry, it was quite an adjustment returning to the slower-paced days outside of government, to suddenly go back to being in front again of the camera instead of behind an office desk.

Six years of hiatus was long, and I did not realize how much I missed it. But I found myself holding a script, packing my things, and preparing for a week-long locked-in shoot outside Metro Manila to play a guest role for a new teleserye. I remember back then, a lot of people have asked me why I did not accept acting jobs during my term as FDCP chief even if there had been a few acting projects that came my way. For some reason, there was something in me that knew I would be able to serve best if I put my first love, acting, aside and focus on being a public servant. Perhaps it is also because when I came in, many were doubtful of my sincerity and capability to lead the national film agency. I knew there was a lot to learn.