As Google presents its Year in Search 2023, Maria Clara at Ibarra emerges as the most searched local TV series in the Philippines just behind the leader of the top 10 list, the South Korean streaming drama Duty After School.
The fantasy drama, which aired on GMA from October 2022 to February 2023, blends Jose Rizal’s timeless novels with contemporary twists, has enchanted audiences of all ages. It’s good to note that it’s the only local title in this year’s list.
In the series, Barbie Forteza, Julie Anne San Jose, Dennis Trillo, and David Licauco breathe life into the main characters, while Zig Dulay’s masterful direction bridged the gap between past and present. The series’ unique blend of history, fantasy, and romance resonated deeply, evident in its dominance on Google searches.
Completing this year’s list of most-searched TV series is a diverse array of shows that captured audiences’ curiosity. Among them is Moving (no. 3), a trending South Korean series and a Disney+ original. It is followed by The Glory, a South Korean psychological thriller, making it noteworthy for marking the comeback of the acclaimed actress Song Hye Kyo.
Fifth and sixth on the list are the South Korean titles Twinkling Watermelon and King the Land, followed by the American romantic comedy-drama on Netflix, XO, Kitty, landing in 7th place.
In rank eighth is the international sensation The Last of Us, an American post-apocalyptic drama on HBO, based on the popular video game franchise.
Rounding out the list are My Lovely Liar, a South Korean romantic drama, and Strong Girl Nam-soon, another South Korean series serving as a spin-off to the 2017 hit, Strong Girl Bong-soon.