True stories make very good content, according to seasoned journalist Mel Tiangco, which is why she takes pride in the thousands of true stories her show Magpakailanman has shared with viewers.
The drama anthology is celebrating 23 years on air, and Tiangco considers the show’s return to television its biggest milestone.
“We were off the air for several years because, according to the network at the time, contests were in and drama was out. I cried privately because I didn’t think it was enough reason. People have different tastes,” Tiangco told Manila Standard Entertainment.
The program returned after GMA management, led by Attorney Felipe L. Gozon, decided to bring it back.
“When FLG wants something, it happens. And so we returned. That, for me, is the biggest milestone,” Tiangco noted.
She never imagined the show would last 23 years, pointing out that its longevity came from consistent storytelling, the dedication of the production team, and viewers who embraced the program’s real-life narratives. She also attributes the show’s staying power to the support of the network and advertisers.
“When you love what you’re doing, you just flow with it. You just work, give your best, and hope you can continue doing what you love,” she shared.
“The fact that we’ve lasted 23 years means the show earns for the company. But more than that, it’s the televiewers who appreciate us. Viewers see Magpakailanman as a show with history, a show that gives inspiration, that stays true, that has credibility, and that does not exploit,” she added.
To celebrate the milestone, Magpakailanman will air a two-part anniversary special featuring Beauty Gonzalez and Sparkle star Mikee Quintos, portraying the present-day and younger versions of a woman named Linda, respectively.
The first installment, Ang Babae sa Likod ng Krimen, follows Linda’s life as she suffers abuse from her alcoholic father after her mother abandons her. Driven to desperation, she kills him, but no one believes her story. She later joins a syndicate and escapes the cruelty, only to face another traumatic event that lands her in prison.
The second part, Ang Babae sa Death Row, follows Linda as she serves a 29-year prison sentence and faces the death penalty, clinging to the hope of seeing her mother before her execution. The special is directed by award-winning Zig Dulay and features Sharmaine Arnaiz, Shamaine Buencamino, Sef Cadayona, Mia Pangyarihan, Jenzel Angeles, and Gina Alajar.
The anniversary special airs on Nov. 29 and Dec. 6 at 8:15 p.m. on GMA-7 and Kapuso Stream. Global audiences can watch through GMA Pinoy TV.
