The Diamond Star Ms. Maricel Soriano adds luster on primetime as she plays a special role in the newest Kapamilya drama series Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin. Even after decades of stardom and unmatched acting experience, Maricel remains ecstatic over sharing the limelight with new co-actors.
She portrays Lucing, the mother of Marissa (Jodi Sta. Maria) and likewise a mother figure to Ellice (Iza Calzado), whose friendship-turned-rivalry serves as the main ingredient in the story. “Tungkol sa dalawang babae na nag-aagawan sa lahat ng bagay,” the veteran actress sums up the plot.
From Marissa and Ellice’s beautiful bond, the conflict begins to escalate when the latter accidentally kills a man out of self-defense. The highly ambitious Marissa willingly takes responsibility for the crime in exchange of money from Ellice’s father (Lito Pimentel), guaranteed an immediate release from jail.
However, the infringed agreement leads to Marissa’s miserable and extended stay behind bars. That is when her heart begins to beat hatred for Ellice, blaming the latter for her miseries. Soon, Marissa gets her freedom and the promised amount which she makes use of to exact vengeance and to take everything that belongs to Ellice including her husband Gabriel (Sam Milby).
Maricel has nothing but praises for the show’s torchbearers – Jodi Sta. Maria, Iza Calzado, and Sam Milby. She considers herself lucky to be able to work with a bunch of professional and sterling artists. Besides kind and sweet, Maricel describes her co-stars as ‘chatty.’
The ‘new normal’ made drastic changes on how tapings are carried out. But while social distancing limits the actors’ physical interaction, endless conversations solidify their camaraderie. This lessens the worn-out feels from doing heavy scenes. “Masaya sa set. Mabibigat ang eksena at mahirap gawin pero dumadali dahil masaya kami,” says the timeless thespian, adding that everyone on the set is treated equal. On top of that, they’re all cool to work with.
Maricel admits she misses the pre-pandemic times when they’re allowed to go home after pack up. The lock-in setup makes her long for her two adorable fur babies but thanks to her co-stars, Maricel always gets something more to look forward to each taping day.