TW: This article discusses mental health conditions including PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
For young actress Xyriel Manabat, joining the Philippine remake of hit Korean series It’s Okay to Not Be Okay is an opportunity to help start conversations on issues that are often difficult to discuss.
“Of course, I’m really happy and really proud. That’s truly the mission and vision of the show—not just for entertainment but also for awareness and advocacy,” Xyriel told Manila Standard Entertainment in a sideline interview during the red carpet premiere of 100 Awit Para Kay Stella.
“So, we’re happy that we’re serving the purpose of the series,” she added.
The new drama, based on the acclaimed South Korean original, dives into topics often left in the shadows, including autism, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and antisocial personality disorder. Set inside the fictional OK Hospital, it uses its ensemble cast to examine stigma, trauma, and healing.
Xyriel plays Madeth, the loyal and efficient secretary to Anne Curtis’ character Mia, a children’s book author whose life becomes intertwined with Patrick, played by Joshua Garcia, a nurse aide at the hospital.
In the series, as the story unfolds, she becomes part of the personal and professional ties that connect the hospital to the world outside, showing how mental health concerns reach beyond its walls.
Yet the drama is not without light. Alongside its focus on illness and recovery, it shows moments of care and connection. Patrick gradually opens up to Mia, offering a note of hope against the show’s more serious themes.
“We’re really proud and blessed because of that. It’s also just in time for awareness month, so we feel the purpose even more,” Xyriel stated..
It’s Okay to Not Be Okay airs weeknights on Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, TV5, TFC, and Kapamilya Online Live, with advance episodes streaming on Netflix and iWantTFC.
If you or someone you know needs support, suicide prevention hotlines are available in the Philippines: NCMH Crisis Hotline at 1553 (toll-free), or 0917-899-8727, 0908-639-2672, 0966-351-4518; Hopeline PH at (02) 8804-4673, 0917-558-4673, 0918-873-4673; and In Touch Community Services at (02) 8893-7603, 0917-800-1123, 0922-893-8944.
