Introduction
Romy Pastrana (born October 5, 1958 in Victorias, Negros Occidental, Philippines), commonly known by his stage name Dagul, is a Filipino dwarf actor, comedian and politician.
Acting career
Dagul was scouted by singer-host Randy Santiago in 1998. Santiago would later dubbed him as "Dagul" which is a colloquial term in Pampanga meaning tall or big which contrasts his estimated height of 2 feet (61 cm).
From doing smaller roles in movies such as Isprikitik, Walastik Kung Pumitik (1999) and Juan & Ted: Wanted (2000), Dagul gained even more exposure when he became Long Mejia's sparring partner in GMA's defunct comedy sitcom Kool Ka Lang (2001).
Viewers already appreciated the "Long and Dagul" tandem when the former decided to transfer to ABS-CBN. Dagul followed. Long Mejia became a regular co-host of Willie Revillame's Masayang Tanghali Bayan, while Dagul did some guest appearances.
Soon the tandem split up. Long was included in the cast of Home Alone da River (2002) and Home Along Da Airport (2003) and became preoccupied with doing movies. Dagul, on the other hand, became more visible on TV. He was a mainstay of the defunct sitcom Ok Fine Whatever (2003) and, up to now, a regular in Goin' Bulilit.
Dagul is the only adult in the hit children's Sunday gag show, Goin' Bulilit since its inception. Director, Edgar Mortiz was responsible for giving Dagul regular employment by casting him in the show. Unlike the other child cast from the show, Dagul will never "graduate" or leave the show.
Filmography
Television
- Goin' Bulilit (2005–present)
- Yes Yes Show (2004–2005)
- Maalaala Mo Kaya Stuffed Toy (2003)
- Ok Fine Whatever (2003)
- Kool Ka Lang (1998–2002)
- Masayang Tanghali Bayan (2003-2004)
Film
- Corazon: Ang Unang Aswang (2012)
- Sakal, Sakali, Saklolo (2007)
- Mr. Suave (2003)
- Cass & Cary: Who Wants to Be a Billionaire? (2002)
- D'Uragons: Never Umuurong, Always Sumusulong (2002)
- Burlesk King Daw, O! (2000)
- Juan & Ted: Wanted - Chuck (2000)
- Isprikitik, Walastik Kung Pumitik (1999)
Politics
In October 2010, Dagul was proclaimed kagawad of Barangay San Jose in Rodriguez, Rizal after receiving the highest number of votes for the position. He campaigned himself as "The Little Man With a Big Heart" and promised to put up daycare centers and deploy additional medical personnel in poor areas if he was elected to the position.
Personal life
As of February 2013, Dagul is married and has four children, three of which are boys, and a girl. All of Dagul's children except his only daughter who is also the youngest child did not inherit his dwarfism condition.