For her first 2021’s Maalaala Mo Kaya guesting, Angeline Quinto carries the banner of women with big dreams as she breathes life to the inspiring story of a Filipina who never gave up on her aspirations despite the struggles. Here’s what you need to know about the episode and Angeline’s other surprises for her fans!
WATCH: MMK “Woman Can” Trailer
Angeline talks about her exciting MMK episode titled “Woman Can” which pays homage to the unbreakable fighting spirit of Filipinas, and women in general. It tells the story of Rebecca Bustamante, now a businesswoman based in Canada.
According to Angeline, the life of Rebecca is a colorful rollercoaster ride full of ups and downs. She was born in a poverty-stricken community. She had ugly experiences with her father. But, resilient by nature, Rebecca managed to turn these obstacles as stepping stones towards her dreams. Here’s a woman who can extract motivation out of the hurdles life throws at her.
Poverty and a plethora of trials didn’t hinder Rebecca from working on and eventually achieving her dreams. Add to that the discrimination belittling her capabilities as a woman. Rebecca worked as a domestic helper overseas and is now reaping the fruit of her hard work as a CEO of her own company.
“Mismong Tatay niya masyado siyang minaliit kasi nga babae. So, ‘yun ang naging laman ng puso niya na, ‘Hindi pwedeng habambuhay akong ganito.’ ‘Yung pamilya ang ginawa niyang inspirasyon para malampasan lahat ng pagsubok na hinarap niya nang mag-isa,” shared Angeline.
There was a turning point in Rebecca’s story that tugged at Angeline’s heartstrings and that is losing her mother. She read the script and was reminded of the pain of losing her beloved Mama Bob. It made her hesitant at first, scared to plunge into grief all over again. She was scared that the story would open up old wounds. Yet, Angeline isn’t the type to turn down blessings. Saying ‘no’ to a work offer wouldn’t be practical especially in these trying times. Besides, she found much-needed boost from her co-stars and director Raz Dela Torre.
For this MMK episode, Angeline shares the screen with veterans including Irma Adlawan, Lito Pimentel, and Arnold Reyes. It’s also her first time working with Mary Joy Apostol playing the young Rebecca. The ensemble cast taught her the value of team work. Angeline classifies herself as an acting rookie, thus working with more experienced actors motivate her. She would open up to them, asking for help and input. And the result was smooth, creative collaboration. “Kapag medyo nahihirapan ako, nagsasabi ako kina Tita Irma, Tito Lito. Kasi siyempre mas may alam sila kaysa sa alam ko. At saka mas kilala ako ng mga tao na singer, eh, bonus na nga lang itong pag-arte,” said Angeline.
Talking about the pros and cons of new normal taping, Angeline thinks the 12-hour work period is more of an advantage than a limitation. They now have more time for rest and it makes taping more organized. It’s a win-win situation for both the stars and crew. The downside though is the limited social interaction especially with the prying fans.
Angeline believes MMK “Woman Can” will remind us that a woman’s capabilities are not limited to gender, circumstances, and social standards. A woman can take on her biggest dreams and thrive on her own. A woman can make a difference. Angeline saw it first-hand from her Mama Bob, who raised her solo.
“Kahit babae ka, huwag mong mamaliitin ang kakayahan mo kasi kahit na nanggaling ka sa sobrang hirap na pamumuhay pero napakalaki ng pangarap mo, hindi imposibleng mangyari ‘yun basta ang faith mo buo. Importante din na buo at malinaw ang gusto nating puntahan,” stressed Angeline. This nugget of wisdom was taken from the lessons she learned from Rebecca, whom she had the chance to talk with before working on the episode.
In celebration of Women’s Month, MMK presents a two-part episode featuring the life story of Rebecca Bustamante to be aired on March 13 and March 20 on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, and A2Z.