MANILA -- Actor Joseph Bitangcol, also known as the former boyfriend of South Korean superstar Sandara Park, marked his return to acting with an appearance on "Maalaala Mo Kaya" in its episode aired Saturday.
The 29-year-old actor is seen in a supporting role in the August 24 telecast of the long-running drama anthology, which also featured as cast members Ariel Rivera, Sheryl Cruz, Marco Gumabao and Ynna Asistio.
Bitangcol's part in the episode's flashback scenes is his first acting stint in over a year, and is seen as his showbiz comeback after his car accident in 2011.
Despite his absence from the limelight, the former "Star Circle Quest" finalist made headlines last month, when he was found unconscious inside his car along a major highway.
Addressing the issue, the actor denied he was under the influence of drugs. Admitting he had been drinking when the incident happened, Bitangcol added he also lacked sleep and had difficulty during the 8-hour drive.
In the same interview on "Startalk," Bitangcol was also asked about his career's turn, with the actor admitting Park's departure for South Korea affected his popularity.
Park, who is now known as Dara in her native country, is one-fourth of the popular K-pop girl group 2NE1.
