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          Fernando Poe, Jr., (Ronald Allan Kelley Poe), Filipino actor and politician (born Aug. 20, 1939—died Dec. 14, 2004), starred in nearly 300 films in his 46-year career as the Philippines’ premier action star and earned the nickname “Da King” for his portrayal of rugged underdog heroes. Despite his lack of political experience, he emerged as the main opposition candidate in the 2004 presidential elections, but he lost to incumbent Gloria Macapagal Arroyo by 3.5% of the popular vote. 

 

            He was a cultural icon of tremendous audience impact and cinema artist and craftsman–as actor, director, writer and producer. The image of the underdog was projected in his films such as Apollo Robles(1961), Batang Maynila (1962), Mga Alabok sa Lupa (1967), Batang Matador and Batang Estibador (1969), Ako ang Katarungan (1974), Tatak ng Alipin(1975), Totoy Bato (1977), Asedillo (1981), Partida (1985), and Ang Probisyano (1996), among many others. The mythical hero, on the other hand, was highlighted in Ang Alamat (1972), Ang Pagbabalik ng Lawin(1975) including his Panday series (1980, 1981, 1982, 1984) and the action adventure films adapted from komiks materials such as Ang Kampana sa Santa Quiteria(1971), Santo Domingo (1972), and Alupihang Dagat(1975), among others.

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