When it comes to Philippine movies, it’s impossible not to mention the legacy of the late action star Fernando Poe Jr., also known as ‘Da King’. But how did he earn such an iconic title?

Ronald Allan Kelley Poe, more famously known as Fernando Poe Jr. (FPJ), was born in Manila on August 20, 1939, but spent most of his childhood in Quezon City. He was the second of six children born to actor-producer Fernando Poe Sr. and Irish-American Elizabeth ‘Bessie’ Kelley.

After his father’s death, 14-year-old FPJ dropped out of the University of the East during his sophomore year. He chose to work instead and provide support for his family, starting out as a stuntman and messenger for Everlasting Pictures.

In 1955, FPJ starred in his first action film, _Anak ni Palaris_. A year later, he rose to stardom with _Lo’ Waist Gang_, a film that reflected the youth culture of the 1950s. Many of his films portrayed him as the underdog—most notably _Ang Probinsyano_ and _Batang Quiapo_, both of which have been adapted into hit television series starring action star Coco Martin.

From 1955 to 2003, FPJ appeared in around 300 films. Several of the films were also written, directed and produced by him under the pseudonyms Ronwaldo Reyes and D’Lanor. Because of such admirable achievements and a lasting impact on Philippine cinema, it’s no wonder he earned the title ‘King of Philippine Movies’ or ‘Da King’.

Fernando Poe Jr. passed away on December 14, 2004, due to a stroke, but his legacy in Philippine cinema will always be remembered. In 2006, he was posthumously honored with the title of National Artist for Cinema for his significant contribution to the Philippine arts. 

To further commemorate his legacy, Republic Act No. 11608 was signed in 2022, which renamed Roosevelt Avenue in Quezon City — FPJ’s ancestral residence during his childhood — to Fernando Poe Jr. Avenue.


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Meet the notable personalities from Quezon City whose remarkable achievements and exceptional dedication to their crafts have brought honor to the city. 

Fernando Poe, Jr.: Introducing the King of Philippine Movies