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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Movies and TV devider Mel Tiangco recalls crying when 'Magpakailanman' gets axed

Mel Tiangco recalls crying when 'Magpakailanman' gets axed

Published Nov 26, 2025 10:04 pm
Celebrating an incredible milestone, the award-winning drama anthology "Magpakailanman" proudly embarks on its 23rd year, captivating audiences with an array of powerful and poignant stories that resonate deeply.
Ms. Mel Tiangco (Images courtesy of GMA)
Ms. Mel Tiangco (Images courtesy of GMA)
Under the gracious mentorship of the distinguished Mel Tiangco, this beloved series continues to shine as a beacon of heartfelt storytelling, moving viewers and enriching their lives with every episode.
During the media conference at GMA Network recently, Mel recalled being emotional when the show went off the air for several years.
"We were off the air for a few years because we were told that the trend at that time was contests," Mel said.
She continued, "Parang ayaw na raw ng mga tao ng drama. (It seems like people don't like drama anymore.) I cried. I kept it in my heart. In my mind, I would tell myself, 'But people will always appreciate drama and true-to-life stories.' Laging nasa isip ko yun at hindi ako nakakatulog. (It's always on my mind, and I can't sleep.)
"I cried. I kept it in my heart. In my mind, I would tell myself, 'But people will always appreciate drama and true-to-life stories. Laging nasa isip ko yun at hindi ako nakakatulog. (It's always on my mind and I can't sleep.)
"But of course, hindi mo naman kayang labanan ang network. (You cannot fight the network.) After several years, we were told that FLG (Atty. Felipe L. Gozon) wants you back in 'Magpakailanman.' And FLG gets what he wants.
"Sabi ko, 'What?' Initially I said, 'Ayoko nga. Tatanggalin ninyo tapos pababalikin ninyo kami na para kaming busabos at sasabihan na, 'Tapos ka na! (I said, 'What?' Initially, I said, 'I don't want to. You're going to fire us and then send us back as if we were slaves and tell us, 'You're done!')
"I hope you understand na tao lang ako, and I was harboring some 'tampo.' But as I've said, with FLG, he gets what he wants. And so I'm back. That, for me, is our most significant milestone: 'Magpakailanman' being brought back on air," said Mel.
"MPK" aired from 2002 to 2007, went off air for five years, and resumed in 2012.
The award-winning news anchor of "24 Oras" said she never expected that "Magpakailanman" would reach this far.
"When you love what you're doing, you flow. Hindi na naglalagay ng limit. (There is no limit.) You flow, you do your best, and hope is always there," Mel said.
Beauty Gonzalez (left) and Gina Alajar
Beauty Gonzalez (left) and Gina Alajar
Mel passionately emphasized that dedicated viewers played an essential role in the remarkable success of "Magpakailanman." Their unwavering support and enthusiasm brought the show to life, making it a beloved staple for many.
"Thank God for this. Everything that happens is the will of the Lord. Kung walang suporta ang network wala rin kami. So I realized after 23 years, the show was earning money for the company. The advertisers appreciate us.
"But more than that, it is the televiewers who appreciate us more. So that's how the industry works. I would also like to think meron din naman sumunod sa aming concept. I believe the televiewers see 'Magpakailanman' and love it," she added.
"Magpakailanman" also achieves an extraordinary feat online, amassing 5.8 billion views and counting across Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok, further affirming its reputation in Philippine television.
As part of its milestone celebration, "Magpakailanman" proudly presents a two-part anniversary special featuring acclaimed actress Beauty Gonzalez and sought-after Sparkle star Mikee Quintos. Together, they bring to life the inspiring story of Linda—with Mikee portraying her younger years and Beauty embodying her present-day journey.
Mikee Quintos
Mikee Quintos
Joining them in the star-studded special presentation on Nov. 29 and Dec. 6 are Sharmaine Arnaiz, Shamaine Buencamino, Sef Cadayona, Mia Pangyarihan, Jenzel Angeles, and Gina Alajar.
The first installment, titled "Ang Babae sa Likod ng Krimen," tells how Linda’s life begins to fall apart after her mother abandons her with an alcoholic father. Enduring repeated abuse, Linda is driven to kill him. Yet when she surrenders to barangay officials, no one believes the horrors she suffered.
She runs away and wanders the streets until she ends up in a syndicate group. Unable to bear the cruelty of that world, she escapes and finds refuge with a close friend. Just as her life is getting better, a traumatic incident resurfaces, leading her to kill another rapist and ultimately landing her in prison.
In the second part, "Ang Babae sa Death Row," Linda faces the consequence of a 29-year prison sentence and the looming death penalty. Despite extreme hardship behind bars, she clings to one ultimate dream: to see her mother again before her execution.
This is an extraordinary story of hope, healing, and forgiveness under the helm of award-winning director Zig Dulay. Don’t miss the anniversary special of "Magpakailanman" on Nov. 29 and Dec. 6 at 8:15 p.m. on GMA-7 and Kapuso Stream. Global Pinoys can also watch the program via GMA Pinoy TV.
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