Ian Veneracion | Photography by Oly Ruiz of Metrophoto for Brands

Ian Veneracion is top of mind when one thinks of action in local showbiz, what with decades of experience in action films and series. Now, Ian embarks on another adrenaline-pumping project, embracing his beloved genre with Incognito. 

Produced by ABS-CBN Studios, Star Creatives, and Studio 360, Incognito is a high-stakes action-drama series set to elevate local entertainment. It offers a story rich in character depth, intense emotions, and world-class production. 

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On Ian Veneracion: Jacket by Zara and pants by Urban Revivo

In an exclusive Metro.Style interview, Ian Veneracion shared his journey with Incognito and what makes it one of the most exciting projects of his career. 

For Ian, the journey to Incognito began long before cameras started rolling. “Direk Lester Pimentel [Ong] and I are good friends. We’ve been talking about this concept for a while, sharing ideas and sending each other videos about military contractors,” Ian recalled. 

When the project was finally greenlit, it exceeded even his high expectations. He said, “Ang galing lang because the cast they pulled together and the scenes—it’s way beyond my expectations.”

Having started his action career at 15, Ian felt right at home with Incognito’s action-packed scenes. “Basta action, it’s like my home court. I’ve had my 10,000 hours in stunts and fight scenes, so I’m very comfortable,” he shared. 

But this wasn’t just another action project—the scope and scale of Incognito made it stand out. From boat chases to high-intensity combat, the series demanded top-notch skills and safety protocols. But the output has been well worth all the hard work. 

Ian’s character, Gregorio Paterno, leads a highly specialized team of military contractors and is considered a veteran in his field. Even with just a few episodes, the show’s narrative is as compelling as its action-packed visuals, amped up by intricate personal backstories and emotionally charged relationships. 

“It’s not just a superhero bang-bang show,” Ian explained, mimicking the sound of a gun. “It’s emotionally driven, with dynamics that add tension and depth.”

As a filming location, Matera—the oldest city in Italy—adds a cinematic flair that helps elevate the series to international standards.

Ian also emphasized the show’s goal to showcase Filipino talent on a global stage. “It’s our attempt to seriously showcase our ability as Filipinos to do action. We hope it gets noticed internationally,” he said, amazed at how local productions excel despite budget constraints. 

With meticulous training in weapons handling, martial arts, and tactical warfare, the cast dedicated months to ensure authenticity in every scene.

Beyond the action, Incognito fostered a strong bond among its cast and crew. “Parang field trip, pero parang actual mission [It's like a field trip but like an actual mission],” Ian quipped. From shared gelato trips in Italy to fight scenes that tested their physical capacity, the camaraderie they built translated into onscreen chemistry. 

Ian fondly recounted working with both seasoned actors and new artists, noting how each brought something unique to the table. Incognito also stars Richard Gutierrez, Baron Geisler, Kaila Estrada, Maris Racal, Anthony Jennings, and Daniel Padilla.

With Incognito now the no. 1 show on Netflix Philippines since it premiered on the platform last January 17, Ian Veneracion is proud of what the team has accomplished. 

“This is serious. It’s the real deal. If you’re going to do action, this is how you do it,” he declared. 

Whether you’re an action enthusiast or a drama devotee, Incognito promises a ride you won't want to miss. Buckle up—this is Filipino storytelling on a whole new level.

(From left) Incognito cast members Richard Gutierrez (as Jose Bonifacio), Baron Geisler (as Miguel Tecson), Ian Veneracion (as Gregorio Paterno), Anthony Jennings (as Tomas Guerrero), and Daniel Padilla (as Andres Malvar)

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Related: Richard Gutierrez Further Cements His Action Star Status With 'Incognito'

Incognito is now available for streaming on Netflix and iWantTFC. Catch new episodes from Monday to Friday at 8:45 PM on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, A2Z, Jeepney TV, and TV5.

Photography by Oly Ruiz of Metrophoto for Brands

Metro Head: Christina N. Lopez

Editor-in-chief: Geolette Esguerra

Sittings editors: Grace Libero-Cruz and Randz Manucom

Fashion associate: Carla Buyo

Creative direction by Chookie Cruz 

Styling by Myrrh Lao To 

Grooming by Charito Acosta

Videographer: Pat Buenaobra

Interviewers: Ryan Christopher Claveria and Leigh Sofia Lazo

Shoot assistant: Princes del Corro

Shoot coordination: Noella Fonbuena and Red Dimaandal

Shot on location at Ascott Bonifacio Global City

Special thanks to Star Creatives