How can you say goodbye to something beautiful, especially to one that has given you inspiration and a family?
That was the sentiment at the finale media conference of It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, ABS-CBN Star Creatives’ adaptation of the hit South Korean drama, where emotions ran high as the cast looked back on their journey before the series’ final episodes.
From the red carpet at the Dolphy Theater to the program itself, the cast carried infectious energy as clips from the final episodes rolled. But emotions turned heavy when they were called onstage to talk about their journey and the series’ impending end.
Lead stars Carlo Aquino and Anne Curtis were visibly moved. Carlo, who plays Matmat, spoke about the bond he built with the cast and crew since filming began last year.
“We’ve been together since July of last year. I’m not used to saying goodbye because I’ve grown to love this team so much, and I truly love this show,” he said, holding back tears.
Anne echoed the sentiment, adding that the adaptation carried a uniquely Filipino soul.
“It’s been quite a journey, filming in some of the most beautiful places in the Philippines, like Dumaguete, Bacolod, and Iloilo. One thing we’re all very proud of is how we showcased not only the beauty of the country but also the richness of Filipino culture, especially in how we portray family,” she said.
Younger cast members Kaori Oinuma and Xyriel Manabat also shared their experiences. Kaori recalled filming an intense final scene with Anne.
“Before the take, I asked permission from Ate Anne because the scene required me to pull her hair. I wasn’t sure I could pull it off, there were so many emotional layers. But with the help of Ate Anne and Direk, I was able to do it,” she recounted.
Xyriel, on the other hand, admitted feeling pressure in her role alongside Enchong Dee.
“In the beginning, Kuya Enchong and I were always anxious, unsure if we were doing too much or if it would come off as cringe. But eventually, things just clicked, and I think our bond helped us deliver,” she admitted.
Other cast members, including Enchong, Maricel Laxa, Agot Isidro, Bodjie Pascua, Bobot Mortiz, Louise Abuel, Alyssa Muhlach, Aljon Mendoza, and Ana Abad Santos, joined in thanking viewers. The group agreed that saying goodbye to something they considered “family” was difficult.
The show has consistently ranked among the Top 10 most-watched titles on Netflix Philippines, adding to its success on free TV and streaming platforms.
As It’s Okay to Not Be Okay enters its final weeks, according to the lead cast members, viewers can expect long-awaited revelations, including the truth behind Mia’s childhood and the mystery surrounding Ingrid’s whereabouts.
The series airs weeknights at 8:45 p.m. on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, A2Z, TV5, iWantTFC, and Netflix.
