From the consummate play on the title to the witty names of characters and establishments, "Owe My Love" truly reflected Pinoy ingenuity.
This hit GMA Public Affairs-produced rom-com served kilig and laughter every night on primetime. Viewers witnessed the struggles of Sensen Guipit played by Lovi Poe, as she dealt with her family’s financial obligations by agreeing to the proposal of Doc Migs, played by Benjamin Alves, to pretend to be his wife.
Yet underneath the tableau of this rom-com were relatable moments for many Pinoys.
As we look forward to its finale this Friday, here’s a rundown of some of the most memorable scenes and episodes that mirrored our lives in more ways than one.
Jenny Rose (Jelai Andres) pretends to be a rich vlogger only to realize that being her true self is what will make her successful. In a time when validation via social media is equated to self-worth, Jenny Rose Guipit’s hunger for immediate gratification is undoubtedly relatable. But though cliché, she later realizes that “the truth will set free.”Jenny Rose embraces her authentic self -- the girl of modest means but with a ton of personality and optimism -- and gains the trust of netizens. Just how much of this success could change her life?
Mema Eps (Nova Villa) showering tough love on the Guipits is the endearing “lola” of our household. Sometimes Sensen’s grandma can be too much to handle. She always has something to say about anything and everything--from Oryo’s (Pekto Nacua) gambling to Gwaps’ (Buboy Villar) love life. But as hard as it is to admit, lolas like Mema Eps will always have our backs.
Vida (Aiai delas Alas) as the ‘mom’ to everyone. Vida was a maternal figure in Sensen’s life. She was always there, supporting Sensen in every step of the way even if it meant letting Sensen go. Her affection and genuine concern extended to her other employees as well. Indeed, Vida reminded us of all the “moms” in our lives who helped
ease our burdens.
Vida’s resiliency and creativity to earn a living. “Para sa ekonomiya” is a common battlecry among Pinoys. Just like Vida, when the going gets tough, Pinoys get going - finding creative ways to make ends meet and eventually pay the bills.
Doc Migs shows compassion to his less fortunate patients. Filipinos are naturally caring. ‘Malasakit’ is one trait that is innate to us and like Doc Migs, a lot of us are willing to go out of our way to help other people. This pandemic did not deter us from being compassionate. In fact, it highlighted how Filipinos, even those with limited resources are willing to give to those who are less fortunate.
Doc Migs does everything for Lolo Badong. Doc Migs’ relationship with Lolo Badong was one of the most endearing elements of Owe My Love. His patience in dealing with Lolo Badong’s bouts of dementia reflects our affection for our elders. Doc Migs loved his grandpa so much, he went as far as forging a deal with Sensen so she could pretend to be his wife and keep Lolo Badong happy. 7.
Sensen works as an overseas Filipino worker for her family. The Philippines is one of biggest suppliers of workers overseas so it was no surprise that Sensen’s experience as an OFW struck a familiar chord with many viewers. The story of self-sacrifice and uncertainty in a foreign land is one that endures.
Sensen’s genuine care and love for Lolo Badong. Filipino caregivers treat their clients like family. This was evident in Sensen’s kindness towards Lolo Badong for whom she went above and beyond the call of duty.
Sensen works hard and applies for loans to finance Gwaps’ operation. Health care is expensive. This is the sad reality for many Filipinos who often go into financial crisis when they or someone in their family gets sick. Filipinos will do whatever is needed - from selling their possessions to going into debt -- to care for those they love.
Sensen temporarily puts her dreams on hold to help her family. Sensen’s personal goal was to become a nurse, but like many ates and kuyas, she gave way to address more pressing family matters. This was the journey of Sensen. She was the Ate who paid for Jenny Rose’s shopping, Gwaps’ hospital bills, and her father’s gambling debts. She gave freely without asking for anything in return.
The list could go on, proof that Owe My Love made an impact on our lives.
Join Lovi Poe and Benjamin Alves, Winwyn Marquez, Leo Martinez, Aiai Delas Alas, Jackie Lou Blanco, Nova Villa, Ruby Rodriguez, Pekto Nacua, Buboy Villar, Kiray Celis, Ryan Eigenmann, Jelai Andres, Jon Gutierrez, Jason Francisco, Divine Tetay, Terry Gian, and Mahal as they bring laughter and kilig for the last time.
Catch the finale of Owe My Love, this Friday, 9:35 p.m. on GMA Telebabad.