Riveting tale of barrio lass begins anew

CEBU, Philippines - One of the highly-anticipated programs this 2015, GMA Network reimagines television history’s most successful telenovela, “MariMar,” with the sizzling team up of Tom Rodriguez and Megan Young. The primetime series begins Monday, right after “24 Oras.”

Giving a fresh take on the role of Sergio Santibañez is Kapuso Prime leading man, Tom. With his devilish good looks and compelling charisma, there is no doubt that the actor will have viewers swooning.

Coming from the wealthy Santibañez family, Sergio is a spoiled trust fund kid who loves extreme sports and adventure. One day, he meets MariMar and decides to use her to get his inheritance from his father. Little did he know that he will soon fall for the girl who he once used for his selfish plan.

Bringing life anew to the iconic character that exemplifies the best traits of the Filipina barrio lass is Megan. She is definitely a fitting choice for the character as she represents a woman who is brave with her sense of purpose and has conquered the world with her countenance.

Despite being separated from her real parents at a young age, MariMar was raised filled with love by a couple who found her. Modest and carefree as she’s known to be, MariMar makes money out of being a pearl diver. To sell her pearls in the island, she dances her signature moves to get people’s attention. It is through this instance that MariMar will be noticed by Sergio.

Witness another dimension of acting prowess as “MariMar” brings together a roster of A-list actors including Ms. Jaclyn Jose as Señora Angelika Santibañez, the outrageously extravagant and flamboyantly dressed second wife of Renato who likes attention and loves being the center of it all; Zoren Legaspi as Gustavo Aldama, the biological father of MariMar who chooses to fight his love for Mia despite his family’s objection; Lauren Young as Antonia, the pretentious socialite daughter of Angelika who will join her mother in depriving MariMar of everything that was rightfully hers; and the returning Kapuso, Ms. Alice Dixson, as Mia Aldama, the biological mother of MariMar who becomes determined in life after having a whirlwind romance with Gustavo.

“MariMar” also takes pride in bringing to life once again colorful characters to be portrayed by Nova Villa as Lola Cruz, the woman who gives shelter to MariMar and treats her as her own child; Tommy Abuel as Lola Pancho, the husband of Lola Cruz who will teach MariMar how to dive for pearls; Carmi Martin as Esperanza Aldama, the fabulous business-minded cousin of Gustavo; Ina Raymundo as Brenda, a sophisticated woman who will try her best to win Gustavo back;  Dion Ignacio as Nicandro, the crooked and dishonest staff officer on the Santibañez Island who is envious of Sergio; Ricardo Cepeda as Renato Santibañez, the kind-hearted and responsible father of Sergio; Jaya as Corazon, the trustworthy chambermaid of the Santibañez family; Cris Villanueva as Padresito Porres, the witty and kind-hearted priest on the island who always encourages MariMar to pursue her dreams; Candy Pangilinan as Perfecta, the personal assistant of Angelika and the greatest rival of Corazon in the mansion; Frank Magalona as Franco, the outspoken companion of Sergio; Ashley Cabrera as Cruzita Santibañez, the charming sister of Sergio who will get close to MariMar; plus  Boobay who will give voice to the adorable dog, Fulgoso.

From making the TV series “The Rich Man’s Daughter,” “My Husband’s Lover,” “Darna,” “Mulawin,” “My Beloved,” and “Temptation of  Wife,” just to name a few, Dominic Zapata is more than ready to offer viewers a refreshing take on this riveting primetime series.

Adding delight to the viewers is the theme song of “MariMar” sung by “Bet ng Bayan” grand winner Hannah Precillas and the love theme titled “Iniibig Kita” sung by one of GMA Network’s powerbelters Maricris Garcia.

Aiming to inspire every Filipina to become the best version of herself while fulfilling her dreams, witness the journey of MariMar beginning August 24.  (FREEMAN)