'Magpakailanman' marks 23 years of inspiring real-life stories

Celebrating an incredible milestone, the award-winning drama anthology "Magpakailanman" proudly embarks on its 23rd year, captivating audiences with an array of powerful and poignant stories that resonate deeply.

- ROBERT REQUINTINA

MEL Tiangco (Images courtesy of GMA Network)

(MEL Tiangco GMA Network)

Under the gracious mentorship of the distinguished Mel Tiangco, this beloved series continues to shine as a beacon of heartfelt storytelling, moving viewers and enriching their lives with every episode.

During the media conference at GMA Network recently, Mel recalled being emotional when the show went off the air for several years.

"We were off the air for a few years because we were told that the trend at that time was contests," Mel said.

She continued, "Parang ayaw na raw ng mga tao ng drama. (It seems like people don't like drama anymore.) I cried. I kept it in my heart. In my mind, I would tell myself, 'But people will always appreciate drama and true-to-life stories.' Laging nasa isip ko yun at hindi ako nakakatulog. (It's always on my mind, and I can't sleep.)

"But of course, hindi mo naman kayang labanan ang network. (You cannot fight the network.) After several years, we were told that FLG (Atty. Felipe L. Gozon) wants you back in 'Magpakailanman.' And FLG gets what he wants.