A sizzling Kapamilya summer

BORACAY , Philippines  — When it comes to conceptualizing new shows, ABS-CBN’s foremost aim is to come up with something that caters to every member of the family. This, Channel head Cory Vidanes considers the primary key to an effective show that makes TV-watching not just a mere form of entertainment but also a way to bond with loved ones in the comfort of home.

“Family entertainment is always first. We also try to hit the teen market and younger generation with shows that still appeal to the whole family,” Vidanes said at the trade launch of daytime shows held outside of Manila for the first time.

Thus, the Kapamilya network started 2010 by bringing back Judy Ann Santos via Habang May Buhay with Derek Ramsay. Her portrayal as Nurse Jane has attracted televiewers of all gender to keep an eye on every twist and turn of the story.

“Big stars will always be a treasure to ABS-CBN but we give breaks to all our talents, no favoritism or whatsoever. Projects are given depending on the concept of the show,” she shared.

Proof to this was Katorse with Erich Gonzalez, Enchong Dee and E-Jay Falcon as main stars. Another newbie in a lead role is Andi Eigenmann in Agua Bendita and of course, Xyriel Anne Manabat who plays the young Agua and Bendita.   

For the teen market, a new set of G-Mik barkada that includes Jessy Mendiola is the network’s offer to younger generation. It also displays the different acting talents of young stars.

At the trade show graced by Kapamilya executives led by president Charo Santos-Concio, hosts Luis Manzano and Anne Curtis proudly announced the launch of the Kapamilya summer station ID, Summer ang Simula, featuring artists of different caliber. Location shoots that capture stars frolicking in the sun were held in Subic, Tagaytay and La Mesa Ecopark.

“We are thankful to advertisers who have been supporting us for many years. Our summer station ID let them see how big the ABS-CBN family is and how happy they are to be in ABS,” Vidanes offered. “They are known even abroad because wherever there is a Filipino, nandun ang ABS-CBN.”   

Starting April, more daytime and primetime shows will keep Pinoys in and out of the country glued to TV set. Koreanovelas like Down with Love starring Jerry Yan sets mornings in the mood for love and Autumn’s Concerto with Vaness Wu while Walt Disney’s Aladdin, The Adventures of Narnia and Pirates of the Carribbean: Dead Man’s Chest are exciting treats to kiddie viewers.

Young stars, on the other hand, pit talents with the veterans in the heart-wrenching scenes that will fill your afternoon and evening with teleseryes that appeal to all age brackets.

“In daytime (slot), we’re giving a break to Empress Schuck in Rosalka which will air afternoons after Magkano ang iyong Dangal,” Vidanes stated.

Directed by Jeffrey Jeturian, Rosalka will see Empress in a drama role opposite Felix Roco and Matt Evans. Other morning shows are Melason in Da City and Your Song Presents Isla.    

Soon to hit TV screens is the Angel Locsin-John Lloyd Cruz starrer Imortal. The series will be filled with action, adventure and drama. If you feel like watching Bea Alonzo clashing head with Gretchen Barretto, Magkaribal fits the bill. Derek adds spice to the primetime soap.

Mixing kiddie star power with dramatic stars like Piolo Pascual will be shown via soap starring Piolo, Zaijan and Xyriel. Cristine Reyes, Zanjoe Marudo, Rafael Rosell and Denise Laurel make your primetime viewing complete.

Then, watch out how Big Brother welcomes teen housemates once again in PBB Teen Edition Clash of 2010.

 “People love soap operas, meron silang affinity sa teleserye because they see themselves in the characters that are portrayed,” Vidanes stressed. “It’s a mirror of what’s happening actually in real life.”

Does she believe TV stardom is often attained by artists through teleseryes than in the silver screen?

“Yes, but their ultimate dream is to be in cinema. In ABS, we have both TV and cinema so at least they’re able to get their chance in soap on TV and at the same time stardom in cinema. ‘Pag may teleserye nahahasa na din sila bilang artista.”

Aside from advertisers, the Kapamilya network also flew in from Manila its 150 stars for A.S.A.P. XV aired last Sunday from Boracay. Part 2 will air on March 28.