'Maalaala Mo Kaya' returns with special twist: Charo Santos joins the story

The Philippines' longest-running drama anthology, "Maalaala Mo Kaya" (MMK), is making a highly anticipated return this April with a special limited series that promises to tug at your heartstrings once again.

Adding an exciting new dimension to the show's legacy, beloved host and narrator Charo Santos-Concio has expressed her willingness to step out from behind the storyteller’s podium and into the shoes of a character in a real-life narrative. During a recent media roundtable, Charo shared that her potential acting role would depend on a story that deeply resonates with her.

“It depends on what comes,” she thoughtfully explained. “It depends on the story. If it resonates with my heart, and if I feel I can give it justice, right?”

Hinting at the kind of role that would draw her in, Charo added, “Of course, it would be a story of a grandmother, a story of a senior citizen.”

"Maalaala Mo Kaya" is famously known for its poignant episode titles inspired by everyday objects. When asked about a potential title for her own story in this new generation, Charo reflected on her own experiences.

“My things are traditional,” she mused. “Traditional, like roses. Not Gen Z. Because I didn’t grow up with a cellphone. I grew up with a landline. You even had a party line back then. You’d even give a time, ‘Just a moment, it’s almost time.’ I’m not too attached to material things.”

However, a title did come to mind — one that encapsulates a timeless spirit, “I said earlier, 'Forever Young, Forever Alive.'”

Adding to the excitement, ABS-CBN icon Charo also expressed her heartfelt gratitude for actor Romnick Sarmenta, who will star in the pilot episode of the new season. She fondly recalled the show's very first episode in 1991, revealing how it unexpectedly moved the network's former executives to tears.

“His first episode was titled 'Rubber Shoes.' You know, the pilot episode has to be approved by the bosses. And the bosses are men, right? They’re not really dramatic people; it’s hard to make them cry. When they were in the preview room, they were teary-eyed. So really, thank you for starting the series. And now, the limited series is again with you,” she warmly told Romnick.

In a beautiful full-circle moment, Romnick, who starred as the son in the original pilot alongside the late veteran actor Robert Arevalo, will now portray the father of Elijah Canlas. Canlas will play Sofronio Vasquez, the talented winner of "The Voice" U.S. Season 26.

Mark your calendars! The highly anticipated comeback of "Maalaala Mo Kaya" with its all-new limited series is set to premiere on 24 April, Thursday, exclusively on iWantTFC.