The Isko Moreno story tonight on Maalaala

Street child. A kariton-pushing scavenger of old newspapers and bottles. Actor. Young politician. It was a truly unique success story that happened to Isko Moreno. But where did his determination to escape poverty and provide for his family come from? And what urged him on to leave showbiz for the even more complicated world of politics? Tonight at 9:30, Maalaala Mo Kaya invites you to watch how a former street kid reached for his own star in the story of Isko Moreno.

A former teen idol and three-time councilor of the first district of Manila, Isko Moreno was born Francisco Domagoso, to a seaman and his second wife. Because he was part of a second family, most of his father’s income went to his first family, and lots of times, Isko and his mother had to fend for themselves. His mother taught him well, however – teaching Isko how to find honest, alternative sources of income in their tough Tondo neighborhood. And it worked: starting from Grade 4, Isko was already pushing a kariton to gather old newspapers and glass bottles to re-sell to a junk dealer. But it was in his early teens that Isko’s life truly changed. After being spotted by a talent manager, Isko embarked on a showbiz career that brought him wealth and fame. But what was it that made him abandon showbiz for politics? And what lessons did he learn from his life as a street kid that continues to influence his decisions as one of Manila’s most promising young politicians?

Danilo Barrios, last seen on Maalaala Mo Kaya last June in the top-rating episode on the Maneouvres’ Joshua and Jason Zamora, takes on the role of Isko for this episode. He will be joined by Rio Locsin and Nonie Buencamino as Isko’s parents.

This episode also welcomes a new director in the person of Nuel Naval, better known as a award-winning production designer for such megahits as Milan, Anak, Kailangan Kita, and Got 2 Believe. Nuel is also an acclaimed student filmmaker, winning awards from the ECP Short Filmfest and the Manila Short Film Festival held in UP. The script for the episode is written by ArleneTamayo.

Know the true story behind the success of Isko Moreno in this week’s edition of Maalaala Mo Kaya only on ABS-CBN.