This July, GMA Network proudly brings back the popular telefantasya that changed the landscape of primetime TV with the long awaited “requel” of Encantadia. (“Requel,” by the way, is from the words “prequel’ and “sequel,” the former meaning prelude and the latter follow up. The network insists this edition is neither a prelude nor a follow up, hence, it is a requel.)
This highly acclaimed saga won the hearts of Filipinos 11 years ago, and upon its return, the Kapuso Network is all set to bring superior and world-class entertainment to its loyal Kapuso fans.
Back in 2005, playing the roles of the four Sang’gres were Iza Calzado, Karylle Tatlonghari, Diana Zubiri (all three now in another network), and Sunshine Dizon. And this year, the Kapuso stars who bagged the much-coveted roles of the four Sang’gres are Kylie Padilla, Gabbi Garcia, Sanya Lopez, and Glaiza de Castro.
Holding strong values of forgiveness, acceptance, and responsibility, the “requel” tells the story of sisterhood, family, and a great forbidden love that bridges two different worlds—that of humans and the magical world of Encantadia.
In the series, Kylie Padilla is Amihan, the keeper of the gem of air. She is known for being mature and nurturing as she protects her loved ones no matter what. Raised by her father in the land of mortals, Amihan learned to be an independent thinker–a characteristic envied by her sisters.
Gabbi Garcia breathes life into the character of Alena, the third among the four, who keeps the water gem. Romantic and carefree, she lives to love and to find that one person who will complete her. She finds that love in Ybarro (Ruru Madrid), a charismatic Barbaro whose past is as much a mystery to him, as it is to her.
Meanwhile, the fearless and headstrong Danaya (Sanya Lopez) is the youngest among the four. She keeps the earth jewel and has an unwavering sense of justice.
Glaiza De Castro is Pirena, keeper of the gem of fire and eldest of them. Passionate and outspoken, the fiery young woman wishes to become the next queen of mga diwata. However, she feels neglected as her mother’s decision chooses her sister, Amihan.
At the helm of Encantadia’s new version is no less than director Mark Reyes. He shares that the well-planned preparation of the show’s comeback makes it one of the grandest television series to date.
“There’s so much more reasons to watch the show. Encantadia’s requel is one of the biggest projects in Philippine television. It’s the story that you’re going to get. Ang naging paghahanda rito—from the costumes to the script to the set hanggang sa graphics, lahat—three times bigger sa unang version.”
Playing special roles are Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera-Dantes as Raquim and Ynang Reyna Minea, respectively.
Completing the stellar cast are John Arcilla as Hagorn, Rocco Nacino as Aquil, Ruru Madrid as Ybarro, Sunshine Dizon as Adhara, Christian Bautista as Apitong, Rochelle Pangilinan as Agane, Vaness del Moral as Gurna, Pancho Magno as Hitano, Buboy Villar as Wantuk, Carlo Gonzalez as Muros, Kate Valdez as Mira, Mikee Quintos as Lira, Starstruck finalist James Teng as Pako, introducing Starstruck winners Klea Pineda as Muyak and Migo Adecer as Anthony, and Solenn Heussaff as Cassiopea.
Adding glimmer to the powerhouse ensemble are Julia Lee as Alira Naswen, Leandro Baldemor as Dado, Neil Ryan Sese as Asval, Ryan Eigenmann as Berto, Angelu de Leon as Amanda, Ana Feleo as Ades, Roi Vinzon as Arvak, Jestoni Alarcon as Armeo, with special participation of Max Collins as Amihan, the sister of Ynang Reyna Minea.
What is the prophecy that led the queen of Encantadia to bear four children? And will the four princesses be able to find camaraderie in one another to fight for their kingdom as they find unity among themselves?
Catch the enchanting story of Encantadia beginning tonight on GMA Telebabad and will premiere worldwide on GMA’s flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV.
Get the latest updates about Encantadia from the official Facebook page of GMA Drama www.facebook.com/GMADrama, twitter account @GMADrama and the GMA Network website www.GMANetwork.com.