Beginning October 3, GMA Network proudly presents the next important television milestone that will make history and love for the country a fun learning experience via “Maria Clara at Ibarra.”

From the creators of Encantadia, Amaya, Sahaya and Legal Wives, GMA Entertainment Group once again sets the bar high for world-class entertainment and innovative concepts as it brings to Filipino homes the newest historical portal fantasy series airing weeknights on GMA Telebabad.

The much-anticipated series is top-billed by 2016 Fantasporto International Best Actress and Kapuso Primetime Princess Barbie Forteza as Klay, Asia’s Limitless Star Julie Anne San Jose as Maria Clara, and Kapuso Drama King Dennis Trillo as Ibarra.

Dennis shares his long preparation for the crucial and iconic character of Ibarra, “Dapat tama lahat ng salitang bibigkasin mo, ‘yung kilos, pag-arte at pananamit. Maraming dapat isipin para maging authentic ang mga eksena at paniwalaan na nangyari talaga siya noong unang panahon. Importante na basahing maigi ang script para makita ang dynamics ng eksena kapag nag-meet na ang past at present.”

Barbie recalls the moment when GMA offered her the role of Klay, “Tuwang-tuwa ako, nung una hindi pa ko naniwala agad kasi napakalaking project niya. Mas lalo akong bumilib sa GMA dahil kahit dumaan ang pandemya, hindi sila tumigil na tumalakay sa importanteng issues ng bansa at balikan ang kasaysayan natin. Metikulosong binusisi ang programang ito and I’m very thankful to be part of it.”

Julie Anne, on the other hand, reiterates the most exciting part of her role and how it inspires her in real life, “Si Maria Clara kasi napaka-iconic niya eh. We all know her as a symbol of hope, purity and sacrifice. Ine-embody niya 'yung isang babae na may pinaglalaban sa buhay and pinaglalaban niya 'yung mga karapatan niya.”

Playing equally important roles in the series are Mr. Tirso Cruz III as Padre Damaso, a Franciscan friar who has deep-seated resentment against Ibarra; Ms. Manilyn Reynes as Narsing, the softhearted and loving mother of Klay; Rocco Nacino as Elias, a fugitive who will become Ibarra’s devoted supporter; David Licauco as Fidel, a playboy businessman and Ibarra’s friend; Juancho Trivino as Padre Salvi, a cunning and ruthless friar who has secret desire for Maria Clara; Mr. Juan Rodrigo as Kapitan Tiago, the influential gobernadorcillo and a friend of the friars; Ms. Ces Quesada as Tiya Isabel, the cousin of Kapitan Tiago who raised Maria Clara as her own child; Mr. Dennis Padilla as Mang Adong, a loyal servant of Ibarra; Mr. Lou Veloso as Mr. Jose Torres, the professor of Klay in Rizal studies and the reason behind her time travel; Ms. Gilleth Sandico as Donya Victorina, a pretentious Filipina who tries to look and speak like a mestiza; Karenina Haniel as Victoria, the close friend of Maria Clara.

Completing the powerhouse cast is the special participation of Andrea Torres as Sisa, the affectionate mother of Crispin and Basilio who loses her mind while searching for her sons.

‘Maria Clara at Ibarra’ follows the story of Klay, a Gen Z nursing student who aims to work and bring her family abroad. She is almost graduating soon, but not until she failed a minor subject—the Rizal Studies. Klay believes that this subject is irrelevant to her life and future career.

Mr. Jose Torres, Klay’s professor, gave her another chance to pass Rizal Studies and he lent her a book of Noli Me Tangere. Klay had not even read several pages of the novel when she got bored and fell asleep.

The mystery begins when Klay wakes up in the world of Noli Me Tangere! Much to her surprise, Klay finds Mr. Torres in the alternate timeline. Klay was told that she can only return to the present once she finishes the book and learns all the lessons from the novel of Dr. Jose Rizal.

As she navigates the real world of Noli Me Tangere, Klay meets Maria Clara, Crisostomo Ibarra, the curates, the ilustrados, and the indios. This will open her eyes from the realities and sufferings of ancient Filipinos during the Spanish colonization. Amid her historical adventure, Klay forms a bond with Maria Clara and discovers the differences and similarities of a Filipina, then and now. She also witnesses the love story of Maria Clara and Ibarra. Will Klay become the bridge to strengthen their existing relationship or will she develop feelings for him instead? As Klay gets attached to the world of Noli Me Tangere, will it create chaos or clarity in her life? Can someone change history and will it bring Klay back to her real life?

The show’s Creative Consultant, Suzette Doctolero, shares the extensive research they have been doing to ensure the quality of this complex story that tackles history, “Required ang buong creative team na magbasa hindi lang ng Noli Me Tangere at El Filibusterismo kundi pati ng iba pang libro tungkol sa Philippine history. Mahalaga rin na mismong mga writers, may stand sa mga importanteng usapin sa kasaysayan.”

Esteemed Director Zig Dulay also reveals their efforts to keep the accuracy and credibility of Rizal’s novels by hiring consultants for the show, “May historians at consultants kami. Meron din kaming kinuhang language coach ng Spanish. For sure ang audience, hindi lang sila ma-e-entertain kundi matututo rin at magkakaroon ng actions sa iba’t ibang issue. Bukod pa sa kwento ng pag-iibigan, tungkol din ito sa pag-ibig sa bayan. ”

This series is made possible under the supervision of GMA SVP for Entertainment Group Lilybeth G. Rasonable; VP for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy; AVP for Drama Helen Rose Sese; Program Manager Edlyn Tallada; and Executive Producer Shielyn Atienza.

The creative team behind this groundbreaking drama is composed of Creative Director Aloy Adlawan; Content Development Consultant Ricky Lee; Historical Consultants Ramon Guillermo and Gonzalo Campoamor; Head Writer J-Mee Katanyag; Writers Brylle Tabora and Benson Logronio; and Brainstormers Zita Garganera and Melchor Escarcha.

Let’s all remember the past with a twist and catch the world premiere of Maria Clara at Ibarra this October 3 at 8PM, weeknights, on GMA and at 9:40PM, Mondays to Fridays, on GTV.

Viewers abroad can also catch the program via GMA Pinoy TV. For more stories about the Kapuso Network, visit www.GMANetwork.com.

 

Last October 13, Khalil Ramos officially signed an exclusive management contract with GMA Artist Center, which makes now a Kapuso Artist. The signing is graced by different personalities such as GMA Senior Vice President for Entertainment Group Lilybeth G. Rasonable, GMA Senior Assistant Vice President for Alternative Productions Gigi Santiago-Lara, GMA Artist Center Assistant Vice President and Head for Talent Imaging and Marketing Unit Simoun Ferrer, and GMA Artist Center Seniour Talent Manager Joy Marcelo.

Khalil 's entry as part of the Kapuso Network makes a great deal for him and he's happy about it. And he is very much excited to be able to collaborate with such talented skilled people of GMA. He shared also that he felt loved! Everyone that he met so far on the said network has been very welcoming.

If you're a cosplayer and a frequent attendee of gaming and cosplaying event, this sweetheart is not new to you. She is a cosplayer, host, singer, songwriter and an actress, Myrtle Sarrosa is now officially a Kapuso star after she inked a management contract with GMA.
The signing was attended by big personalities from the Kapuso Network. Present in the contract signing were Assistant Vice President for Alternative Productions Gigi Santiago-Lara and GMA Artist Center Senior Talent Manager Daryl Zamora.

A Cum Laude graduate with a degree in Broadcast Communication from the University of the Philippines Diliman, Myrtle is ready for the opportunities and experiences that will be given to her as she embarks on her journey in the Kapuso Network.

She said, "I'm so excited to be a Kapuso, Everyone is so nice and they're so warm. Masaya ako to be in a new environment. I've really wanted to work with GMA kasi yung shows na meron sila, these are the kinds of shows that I want to be a part of. I can feel that  GMA believes in me and I'm so happy to find people na naniniwala sa akin."
With all smiles, Myrtle, promised to work harder and to stay focused on learning more about her craft in GMA. She is looking forward to working with GMA's brightest stars including Alden Richards, Julie Anne San Jose, and Ruru Madrid.
"I really want to reinvent myself and to experience new things. Life is about making new memories and creating new experiences. I'm so excited for what's yet to come," she related.
Santiago-Lara revealed that Kapuso viewers should watch out for Myrtle in various GMA shows, "GMA Artist Center is very happy to welcome Myrtle in our roster of talents. She's a versatile artist so we're glad that she chose to join us here in the Kapuso Network. We're also very excited because we will see her soon back on television."

Probably you're one of the people who are hook with these four princesses who are making your afternoon worth taking time to watch and rest. After it was aired last year, the Prima Donnas became one of GMA Network's top rating shows on Afternoon Prime. It unveils a heartwarming tale about family and love among siblings. It aired in August 2019 and is under the direction of esteemed director and actress Gina Alajar.

Playing vital roles are four of GMA's brightest and most talented stars: Jillian Ward as Donna Marie, Althea Ablan as Donna Belle, Sofia Pablo as Donna Lyn, and Elijah Alejo as Brianna.





















Jillian Ward portrays the role of the eldest of the three Donnas, Donna Marie. We first sal Jillian in the 2010 series, Trudis Liit, a remake of the 1983 hit film. Jillian has also appeared in Kapuso shows such as Super Ma'am, My Special Tatay, and Daig Kayo Ng Lola Ko.

Althea Ablan plays the character of Donna Belle, the ambitious Donna. Althea has appeared in a number of Kapuso shows such as Kara Mia, Super Ma'am, and Haplos. Aside from being an actress, Althea is also a talented dancer. She often posts dance covers on her Instagram account.
 

Sofia Pablo plays Donna Lyn, the youngest of the three Donnas. Sofia has appeared in Kapuso shows such as: Destined to be Yours and Sherlock Jr. Aside from being an actress. Sofia is also a vlogger who recently received a Silver Play Button award for surpassing 100,000 subscribers on YouTube. She also has more than 1 million followers on Tiktok and she is one of the platform's standout Filipino Celebrities in 2019.

Elijah Alejo plays the character of Brianna, the villain in the life of the three Donnas. Elijah has appeared in Kapuso shows sucha as Ika-6 na Utos and Conan, My Beautician. She is also an achiever in school; she has plenty of awards under her belt and despite her busy schedule, she also learned Hangul and Italian.






Family secrets, grudging relatives, and an endless pursuit of real identity, will the bond of the three Donnas remain strong amidst the many challenges life throws at them?

Catch Prima Donnas every Monday to Friday at 3:25pm and every Saturday at 2:30pm on GMA Network

GMA Artist Center would like to thank Mars Wigley, Rinoa Essential Oil, and Vitamilk for providing the giveaways for this blog con.

Receiving an award for the talent that you have, to be known on the passion that you pursue is a significant achievement for someone who wants to entertain others.

Like what happened to Garrett Bolden, Kapuso's Soul Balladeer, who recently won the New Male Recording Artist of the Year Award at the 11th PMPC Star Awards for Music.


























"I still can't believe that I won. Win or lose, I really wanted to attend the awards show as it was my first nomination from a major award-giving body. I wasn't really expecting to win," said Garret, who rose to fame after competing in The Clash on GMA Network.

In his acceptance speech at the 11th PMPC Star Awards for Music, Garrett said the award was special because he has been joining singing contests and auditioning for years and this was his first major recognition.

 

Garrett Bolden shared his musical influences, like Boyz II Men, Brian McKnight, and James Ingram and for the local, he is eyeing to Jay Durias of South Border, and here's the video when he sang Rainbow from South Border.
 
In a radio interview, Garrett also shared that his supporters can look forward to new songs personally written by him.




Garrett was a finalist on Season 1 of GMA Network's reality competition show The Clash. He released his debut single "Lilipad Na" in 2019. This was followed by "Handa Na Maghintay."



Garrett appears regularly on GMA Network's newest variety show All Out Sundays.

GMA Artist Center would like to thanks Mars Wrigley, Active White, and Cobra for providing the giveaways for this blog con.

GMA Kapuso Foundation (GMAKF) welcomed the Kapuso Stars as advocates of public service to encourage more youth to take part in GMAKF's disaster, relief, education, and health programs.
GMAKF led by its founder and ambassador, Ms. Mel Tiangco, welcomed into the Kapuso Foundation fold the following Kapuso artists;

Rocco Nacino (Health)
Bea Binene (Disaster Relief)
Patricia Tumulak (Kapuso School Development)
Sofia Pablo and Will Ashley (Unang Hakbang Sa Kinabukasan - Education Support)

The Kapuso artists/advocates committed their time and effort for GMAKF's mission to uplift the lives of underprivileged Filipinos all over the country through the provision of quick-response disaster relief operations; the undertaking of health, nutritional and medical projects; and the carrying out of developmental programs designed to promote education.
Versatile and talented dramatic actor, Rocco Nacino, feels enthusiastic to promote GMAKF's health and nutrition projects such as Bisig Bayan and Give-A-Gift projects. Apart from this showbiz stint, Rocco is a registered nurse and has a master's degree in nursing, which explains his affinity for GMAKF's health projects. He also recently enlisted himself as a reserve in the Philippine Navy and is part of the powerhouse cast of the Pinoy adaptation hit Korean series Descendants of The Sun, as well as the second season of GMA News TV's health talk, show The Healthy Juan. Aside from these shows, he is also one of the lead stars of the romantic-comedy film Write About Love which is an official entry to the 45th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF)
Rocco is very honored to be part of the Kapuso Foundation because he can continue what he and her mother doing for those who needs help not just to a few people but to more people where he can lend his advocacy. He enjoys parting knowledge and teaching to give awareness on what GMAKF projects all about.
On the other hand, Beautiful Justice star and budding chef/entrepreneur Bea Binene commits to help spread awareness on the need to support GMAKF's Operation Bayanihan relief operations. Bea has noted that more natural calamities are happening in the country and more public donations are needed to sustain GMAKF's efforts when disasters strike to ensure that immediate aid can be given to the needy.
Bea is very thankful with GMAKF because since she was 6 years old she is volunteering until now. According to her, she will continue to serve the welfare of the beneficiaries of Kapuso Foundation. She is focusing on disaster relief and she's very much willing to go to places where people are needing help. She commented that she would really try those who are in need and those who had or will experience calamities.

Kapuso host and actress Patricia Tumulak, who is a graduate of Early Childhood Education, understands the needs of sturdy classrooms all over the Philippines. Patrica is keen on drumming up support for GMAKF;s Kapuso School Development program which undertakes the building and rehabilitation of Schools in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, as well as the Kapuso Tulay Para Sa Kaunlaran, wherein the foundation spearheads the construction of concrete and steel bridges in remote areas of the country to connect communities  to school and markets, in a bid to encourage learning and trade. Currently, Patricia is also part of the Afternoon Prime series Magakaagaw.

 
Patricia is super happy that GMA artist center gave her the opportunity to join the GMAKF to pursue her passion for helping the foundation with its project about the education program. She added that she will raise awareness to be part of this program to be active and to make youth realize the importance of education.
Lastly, Prima Donnas stars Sofia Pablo and Will Ashley are likewise thrilled about joining GMAKF's distribution of school supplies to tens of thousands of children in need all over the Philippines A pillar project of GMAKF is the annual Unang Hakabang Sa Kinabukasan - which distributes sturdy school bags with complete sets of school supplies to kinder and grade 1 students nationwide. Being students themselves, Sofia and Will have their sights set on standing up for the rights of all children to have access to quality education and empowering them to make their dreams come true.

GMA Artist Center would like to that M&Ms, Doublemint, Goju, and Sapporo Noodles for making this event possible.

Hmm... aren't these two just a site to see!!!! A perfect picture of a husband and wife. Probably one of the latest and hottest couple in the Kapuso Network, the new team up of Jeric Gonzales and Klea Pineda. Netizens noticed their closeness most especially with the recent photos and stories that were posted on each other's instagram. Sweet!!! And no one's complaining about it because these two will slowly but surely make you want to fall in love over and over again!



Kapuso viewers first noticed the chemistry between talented GMA Artist Center stars Jeric Gonzales and Klea Pineda in the suspense-drama series, 'Ika-5 Utos,' and have since looked forward to seeing them together in more soaps.


A homegrown talent of the Network and winner of the all-original talent search Protege, Jeric has consistently proven his caliber in portraying different roles since then, he has become one of GMA's sought-after leading men. He is also known for being musically-inclined in singing and playing the guitar.


Meanwhile, Klea was hailed as the 'Ultimate Female Survivor' in the sixth season of the original reality based artista search 'StarStruck.' Soon after, she starred in the top-rating series, 'Encantadia' as Muyak, and 'Sirkus' as Sefira. With her tall, statuesque figure and striking features, many have called her our future beauty queen.
  
This year, Jeric and Klea take their tandem to the next level as they headline GMA Afternoon Prime's upcoming series Magkaagaw, a controversial drama that follows the story of a daughter who suffers from the consequences of the sins of her mother.





While mirroring the current set-up of most modern couples today, their characters will introduce a story like no other as they get entangled in the secrets and controversies of their own families, harped on revenge and filial sentiments.

Joining Jeric and Klea in the series ar two of the industry's versatile actresses: former on-screen rivals Sheryl Cruz and Sunshine Dizon. Joining them is actor-politician Alfred Vargas.

Catch the much-awaited return of Jeric and Kleas on Magkaagaw soon on GMA Afternoon Prime.

Thank you Negoshop project for Himalayan Natural Salt Lamp, Whiteroom soap works, Esme Organics and Play Hub.