Tatler Asia named him one of the most influential Filipino personalities in Asia. Martin began acting in the early s and initially played minor and guest roles in several films. He made his breakthrough with leading roles in widely acclaimed indie films Daybreak , Serbis , Kinatay and Jay He was also recognized as one of the most influential celebrities of the decade at the 10th EdukCircle Awards. He was young when his parents separated causing his grandmother, Matilde, to care for him.
He was raised in Novaliches , Quezon City , and would later admit that he spent most of his time on the streets to make ends meet. During these years, he would often go to the Quiapo Church in Manila with his grandmother to seek guidance from the Black Nazarene. Martin eventually returned to janitorial work, and after nine months, returned home to the Philippines.
He was later scouted for a role in an independent film. Coco Martin's breakthrough came with the lead role in the indie film , Masahista The Masseur , directed by Brillante Mendoza in his directorial debut under Gee Films Productions International and Centerstage Productions. Throughout , Martin continued his involvement in indie films, starring in Siquijor: Mystic Island , a film directed by Mark Philip Espina.
He also had a cameo role in Seiko Films ' indie production, Foster Child. In , Martin starred again in another critically acclaimed indie film Daybreak , a Philippine gay film written by Charliebebs Gohetia and directed by Adolfo Alix Jr. Martin portrayed the role of a boatman who becomes sexually and romantically involved with another man played by Paolo Rivero.
The film was directed by Francis Pasion and tackles how media is able to create its own version of the truth. It challenges the audience to be critical and discerning of whatever they see on television or film. Martin having typecast for "bold" or erotic roles in indie films like Masahista was an initial ostacle for him to land a role in ABS-CBN 's television series. In both instances the offer for the roles were withdrawn after the production staff learned Martin's history as a "sexy star".
