MANILA, Philippines – It wasn't only Hulk actor Mark Ruffalo who received an action figure from Filipino artist Elmer Padilla – Thor star Chris Hemsworth got one as well.
"It looks better than me," Hemsworth said in an interview on ABS-CBN News, as he praised the Thor action figure. (READ: Mark Ruffalo thanks Filipino artist for ‘sustainable, awesome’ Hulk action figure)
ABS-CBN reporter Marie Lozano handed over Padilla's Thor action figure – made from scrap flip-flops – to Hemsworth during an interview in Sydney, Australia.
Hemsworth and Ruffalo are co-stars in the upcoming Thor: Ragnarok.
Padilla, a budding action figure artist now based in Cavite province, used to be pedicab driver on the side and a construction worker. (READ: Boy Tsinelas: Crafting action figures out of flip-flops)
He was recognized by the Imus City government for setting an example to save the environment through recycling.
Commissioned works
As of the moment, Padilla said he's not yet taking commissioned works from customers.
"Ngayon po, hindi po muna ako tumatanggap ng mga orders. Sa mga exhibit na lang po muna (As of the moment, I'm not taking any orders. I'm currently putting my works on exhibit)," Padilla told Rappler in a text message.
Padilla said those who want to see him working on the figures may visit his booth on the following dates and venues:
- October 22 - Shangri-La Plaza
- October 24 - SM Megamall
- October 28 to 29 - Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila
– Aika Rey/Rappler.com
Those who are interested to give Padilla financial assistance may deposit here:
UnionBank of the Philippines
ACCOUNT NAME: Elmer B. Padilla
ACCOUNT NUMBER: 1093 5039 4052