The historical drama series Pulang Araw has recently gained more attention online after airing scenes that depict the harsh realities and mistreatment Filipinos endured during the Japanese occupation, focusing in particular on the comfort women subjected to military sexual abuse.
Actress Sanya Lopez had the opportunity to share her reflections during an open forum, “Flowers for Lolas,” held at the 85-year-old Kamuning Bakery in Quezon City on Oct. 24. She struggled to hold back tears as she expressed her deep emotions after meeting some of the remaining Filipina comfort women, survivors from World War II. Sanya portrayed Teresita Borromeo, who suffered abuse at the hands of Dennis Trillo’s character, Japanese Imperial Army Colonel Yuta Saitoh.
The Pulang Araw star was visibly moved as she recounted her interactions with these elderly women and reflected on the trauma they have carried for decades.
“This is such a heavy topic. I’m just an actress, but I can feel our comfort women’s struggles and what they fight for. Honestly, this is how I felt when I first worked with them. I’m sorry if I’m this emotional, but what happened to them is real—it really did happen during World War II,” said Sanya.
As she continued, Sanya conveyed her empathy for the women’s stories of abuse and betrayal as they still seek the justice denied to them.
“When I had the opportunity to visit them and learn about their experiences, they spoke about when they would receive the justice they deserve, as only a few of them are left. When I talked to them, it was so painful to hear their stories. It’s not a joke,” she continued.
She particularly highlighted the story of one survivor, Lola Isang, who shared a memory of seeing children today living in freedom, making her feel grateful for the liberties Filipinos enjoy today.
“Every time she sees children—happy and free—she says, ‘If only I were in their place, I would be so happy too,’” Sanya recalled. “It made me realize how fortunate our generation is for not experiencing what they went through.”
The brutal legacy of the comfort women, known locally as Malaya Lolas (Free Grandmothers), remains a contentious issue between the Philippines and Japan. During Japan’s occupation, countless Filipinas were forced into sexual slavery. Today, only a few survivors of this group remain, raising concerns that time may run out for these women to receive the justice they have sought for decades.
Alongside her co-star, Ashley Ortega, Sanya called for justice for the comfort women and promised to continue using her voice to amplify their appeal.
“When will they receive the justice they deserve? They’re so few now. When will their voices be heard?” she added.
Meanwhile, the Malaya Lolas continue to advocate for an official apology and reparations from the Japanese government, despite longstanding diplomatic and legal challenges. Sanya’s appeal, alongside those of activists, underscores the enduring trauma faced by these survivors and the urgency of honoring their legacy.
