Iconic and high-rating Filipino TV shows in the last 25 years

FOREIGN REMAKES & DUBBED FAVORITES

Meteor Garden (Tagalized)

When the Taiwanese drama Meteor Garden hit Philippine airwaves in 2003 via ABS-CBN, it launched the Asianovela craze. The dubbed show triggered F4 fever nationwide and revolutionized teen viewership.

MariMar, Maria Mercedes, Rosalinda (Philippine Remakes)

GMA’s adaptations of Thalía’s beloved telenovelas—led by Marian Rivera (MariMar) and Jessy Mendiola (Maria Mercedes)—were ratings magnets and served as platforms to launch or cement local stars.

Endless Love, Temptation of Wife, Attic Cat (Philippine Versions)

These Korean drama remakes highlighted the Hallyu wave’s influence and were tailored to the Filipino audience’s taste, showing both network competitiveness and localization success.

Betty La Fea (I Love Betty La Fea)

Bea Alonzo’s portrayal of the lovable ugly duckling in the Philippine version of Betty La Fea won hearts and awards. It was a successful adaptation of a global favorite.

REALITY COMPETITIONS & TALENT SHOWS

Idol Philippines, The Voice Philippines, Pilipinas Got Talent, The Biggest Loser, Pinoy Big Brother (ABS-CBN)

The 2000s and 2010s saw a boom in localized international formats:

• Pinoy Big Brother became a social experiment and pop culture mirror.

• Pilipinas Got Talent uncovered phenomenal acts from across the country.

• The Voice PH introduced powerhouse vocalists under the mentorship of big names like Lea Salonga.

• Idol PH showcased raw talent with a Filipino flair.

• The Biggest Loser championed physical and emotional transformation.

These shows fostered audience participation and built enduring fanbases.

MELODRAMA & HUMAN STORIES

Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN)

Hosted by Charo Santos, MMK became the longest-running drama anthology in Asia. With its signature white envelope and true-to-life stories, it inspired generations and tackled themes from OFW struggles to LGBTQ acceptance.

Magpakailanman (GMA Network)

GMA’s counterpart to MMK, hosted by Mel Tiangco, focused on real-life Filipino resilience and was instrumental in shaping public empathy through dramatization of actual events and testimonials.

LGBTQ+ STORYTELLING ON PRIMETIME

My Husband’s Lover (GMA Network, 2013)

A groundbreaking gay-themed drama that portrayed a closeted husband’s relationship with another man. It broke barriers and earned praise for its sensitive portrayal of LGBTQ+ issues on primetime TV.

The Rich Man’s Daughter (GMA Network, 2015)

This sapphic love story between Rhian Ramos and Glaiza de Castro offered a rare look at lesbian romance in a conservative society. It sparked important conversations on gender and acceptance.

INDUSTRY SHIFTS & NETWORK RIVALRIES

The 2000s to 2010s were marked by the fierce rivalry between ABS-CBN and GMA Network. The battle extended across genres — from news and public affairs to dramas and variety shows. Each network developed signature styles and loyal followings.

TV5 emerged as a strong contender in the 2010s, especially under the leadership of MVP Group. It provided an alternative platform for sports, public affairs and entertainment, gradually carving its own niche.

THE ABS-CBN SHUTDOWN & EVOLUTION

In May 2020, ABS-CBN was forced off the air following the non-renewal of its legislative franchise — a moment that shook the entire media industry. Despite losing its traditional platform, the company pivoted with remarkable resilience:

• It became a major digital content creator, with Kapamilya Online Live, iWantTFC, and partnerships with YouTube and Netflix.

• It forged deals with TV5 and A2Z to keep its shows on free TV.

• It led the push toward streaming-first storytelling, adapting quickly to global trends.

LEGACY AND THE FUTURE

Filipino television from 2000 to 2024 wasn’t just about ratings wars — it was about reflection, representation, and reinvention. These shows gave voice to every Filipino dream, hardship, love story and triumph.

As we move forward into a more digital and globalized era, the legacy of these landmark programs continues to influence how stories are told — and how they are remembered.

Because in the end, Filipino television is not just watched. It is lived.