This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.
As ‘MMK’ returns, host Charo Santos-Concio hopes the younger viewers appreciate the stories and rediscover the iconic series beyond the ‘Dear Charo’ parodies
MANILA, Philippines – What makes a good story? For Charo Santos-Concio, the longtime host of the drama anthology Maalaala Mo Kaya (MMK), there’s “no exact science” to it.
Charo would know. MMK dramatized real-life stories from letter senders for 31 years, and now that it’s back as a limited series, she hopes the show will resonate with the younger audience.
But of course, it all starts with the selection of good stories.
“When you choose stories, you kind of listen to your heart, to your intuition. We’re not very structured. We listen — this story will make an impact, there is a great lesson to this story, or this story has a very strong emotional connection with our viewers,” she said.
“You go with the flow. There is no exact science in saying what is the best story. Every story is unique.”
MMK debuted in 1991 and became Asia’s longest-running drama anthology before it ended in 2022 — one of the shows that suffered from the twin blows of the pandemic and ABS-CBN’s franchise closure.
Returning as a limited series, MMK will air 13 episodes on television every Saturday at 8:30 pm starting April 26 on Kapamilya Channel and A2Z, as well as on Kapamilya Online Live.
Each episode also features a director’s cut, which will be streamed 48 hours in advance on iWantTFC.
Just like before, the show starts with Charo reading a letter in her signature calm voice that, for years, not only soothed but also spawned many “Dear Charo” parodies.
While the award-winning host and actress doesn’t mind, she also hopes to hear more from the younger viewers.
“Now we’re welcoming the stories of the Gen Zs, the social issues that are being faced now by the young people, by the parents of these young people,” said Charo.
“[The new show is] more relevant to the new generation of viewers, and we hope that the older generation will be more appreciative of the perspective of the now.”
The first episode features the story of Sofronio Vasquez, the first Asian winner of The Voice USA.
Award-winning young actor Elijah Canlas plays Sofronio, while Romnick Sarmenta, who starred in MMK‘s pilot episode as a teen son in 1991, returns, this time playing the role of Sofronio’s father.
The life story of one member of the popular P-pop girl group BINI will also be featured in the second episode.
Much like in past seasons, Charo said the show will feature a mix of celebrities and regular letter senders sharing their stories, which she hopes will inspire or open conversations.
“Stories are the ones that keep us alive, that connect us with each other,” said Charo. “So, in whatever form…storytelling will always be a part of our lives.” – Rappler.com
Content shared from www.rappler.com.