The main character of Mass is José “Pepe”[1] Samson, a resident of Tondo, Manila. He is the illegitimate son of Antonio “Tony” Samson, the primary character in José’s The Pretenders.[2] Pepe was also the great-grandson of Istak, the principal protagonist in José’s Po-on.[4] Instead of becoming like his father who was enticed by wealth,[4] Pepe became a follower of a former commander of the Hukbalahap(Hukbong Bayan Laban sa Hapon) rebels turned local affairs devotee and student leader in Manila.[5] Pepe Samson was raised by Emy in Cabugawan, then goes to live with an aunt in Manila in order to study in college. He became a drug dealer for a gangster named Kuya Nick.