One reason FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano hooked us in from pilot to the upcoming finale is the formidable cast that includes seasoned actresses, who showcased their unfading brilliance in the longest-running teleserye.
As FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano nears its “Pambansang Pagtatapos,” we look back on the actresses who have been part of its main hero, Cardo Dalisay (Coco Martin)’s journey.
Queen of Philippine Movies, legendary actress Susan Roces’ beloved character as Lola Flora is now etched in Philippine TV history – and in our hearts. Lola Flora, or ‘Lola Kap’ to some, was the wind beneath Cardo's wings and her unconditional love shined in both their happy and heart-rending moments together. Honestly, we couldn’t imagine any other actress playing Lola Flora’s role than Susan. And, her being the wife of the late Fernando Poe Jr., the original ‘Probinsyano,’ made her appearance on the show all the more significant.
Grand Slam Queen Lorna Tolentino showcased her versatility as Lily, the two-faced ‘kontrabida’ with a strong lust for power. Five decades into her stellar career, Lorna still never runs out of surprises for her audience, from taking on action sequences to her funny ‘hirits’ as a grouchy boss. Her presence truly added hefty star power to the program – it’s no surprise she lasted three years as Cardo’s enemy.
Megastar Sharon Cuneta left us in a pool of tears with her tragic moments as Aurora, the heiress who ditched a comfortable life for true love, especially when she found out that her and President Oscar (Rowell Santiago)’s daughter, Mara (Julia Montes), was used and eventually killed by her family’s enemies as revenge.
Award-winning actress Charo Santos had us gawking on our screens when she appeared as patriotic leader Ramona, who fostered the teenage Cardo (Nash Aguas) and trained him to fight. Apart from the stunning gunfight scenes, Charo mesmerized viewers with her drama-heavy moments with Coco.
A true epitome of timeless beauty, Angel Aquino is one of the most beautiful personalities to watch whether the script requires tears or combat skills. She has played General Diana Olegario, former head of the National Military Intelligence Group, who joined forces with Cardo’s team after fighting for her life due to Renato (John Arcilla)’s wickedness.
We are no stranger to the astounding talent of Shaina Magdayao who started in showbiz as a child star. Shaina as the badass Major Roxanne Opeña might be only one of the two females in the elite Task Force Agila, but she sure can leave everyone in the dust with her shooting skills. And, when she starts to deliver her lines in emotionally-charged scenes, the episode just becomes a whole lot better.
In the maiden chapter, Cardo encountered numerous women as part of his police work. One of them was portrayed by Judy Ann Santos, who brought a new, exciting flavor in the teleserye as a clandestine killer with Dissociative Personality Disorder named Jane. Proving that she’s still on the throne as Drama Queen, she switched among four different personas – the friendly Jane, the feisty Maureen, the childish Lovely, and the tough ‘kuya’ – in a single scene.
Angelica Panganiban flew with Coco to Hong Kong to film her scenes as a drug mule. Agot Isidro played a pivotal role as Verna Tuazon, who was trapped in her family members, namely Don Emilio (Eddie Garcia), Tomas (Albert Martinez), and Joaquin (Arjo Atayde)’s evil deeds. She was a loving mom to Rachel portrayed by Belle Mariano.
Dawn Zulueta blessed the viewers with her combined elegance and dramatic prowess as First Lady Marissa Hidalgo. Meanwhile, Shamaine Buencamino donned the character of Alyana (Yassi Pressman)’s mom, Virgie.
Irma Adlawan played Dulce, mom of Regine (Angeline Quinto) and Bruno (Janno Gibbs), who both harbored the Pulang Araw members.
Cherry Pie Picache played Linda, the mother of hired bomber Marlon (Carlo Aquino). The internet’s favorite ‘lola’ Gina Pareño brought her natural feistiness to the series as Madam Olga, a syndicate leader who abducted females including Carmen (Bela Padilla).
Maja Salvador as Glen, Cardo’s childhood friend and fellow police officer; and Bela Padilla as Carmen, the bereaved wife of Cardo’s twin brother, Ador, occupied the romantic trope in Season 1 as Cardo’s love interests. Viewers were therefore surprised when they exited the show. Carmen was killed by Tomas (Albert Martinez) while Glen left for the province.
Yassi Pressman expanded her repertoire with a significant role as Alyana, a former reporter who married Cardo. She had us gushing over her performance as the show’s ultimate leading lady whether in ‘kilig’ or painful moments. She also showcased her action chops when Alyana joined Cardo’s Vendetta group in Barrio Sto. Nino.
Other women who tried to snatch Cardo’s heart are Yam Concepcion as Lena, daughter of Pulang Araw figurehead and Cardo’s ally, Romulo aka Leon/Pinuno (Lito Lapid); Denise Laurel as Major Alex Romero, a colleague in the CIDG.
To mark its 6th anniversary in 2021, FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano presented a fresh story arc and a new set of cast members including Julia Montes as Mara, introduced as Cardo’s last love. We marvelled at her brilliant acting in emotionally-charged scenes, as well as her stunts and fight skills.
Which of these actresses mesmerized you most?
Don’t miss FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano’s “Pambansang Pagtatapos” on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, and A2Z.