Elias's introduction in 'Maria Clara at Ibarra' wows fans

"Maria Clara at Ibarra" opened this week with a powerful introduction scene for "Noli Me Tangere" character Elias!

While the main characters are at the house of Kapitan Basilio, Elias (Rocco Nacino) has been waiting for the carriage of Padre Damaso (Tirso Cruz III) on the road.

He then stopped the vehicle, took the priest aside, and trapped him in a ring of fire on the grass.

Elias proceeded to taunt the priest who oppressed the people of San Diego. He poured urine of indios as a "blessing" and punched him in rage.

READ: Here's a guide to the Noli characters in 'Maria Clara at Ibarra'

Fans on Twitter raved over the scene, praising the acting and expressing their approval over what happened to the hated Padre Damaso.

Many also felt excited that Elias, one of the fan-favorites in the Rizal novel, had an intense debut to the series.

"Elias deserving such a baddest and epic opening scene. Goosebumps grabe!" said one fan.

Elias as a mysterious fugitive who becomes Ibarra's ally in the novel.

As of writing, the official hashtag of the episode, #MCIElias, is the top trending topic on Philippine Twitter with over 17,000 tweets.

"Maria Clara at Ibarra" airs on GMA Telebabad on weeknights after "24 Oras." It is also livestreamed on the GMA Network website.

—MGP, GMA Integrated News