Thousands of characters have been introduced on our television screens over the decades but how does one leave a mark in the audiences’ minds and hearts? Perhaps, being relatable is part of the secret formula. Another factor that makes the difference is how the actor mounts realism and depth to the on-screen persona he was tapped to wear. Look no further than the iconic inspirational series May Bukas Pa originally aired ten years ago and is currently having a rerun on the Kapamilya primetime block.
IN PHOTOS: The cast of May Bukas Pa 11 years ago
May Bukas Pa brought us the innocent faithful child named Santino who continues to bring inspiration to Filipino households until the present. Apart from the bright-eyed boy, there’s Father Jose played by Dominic Ochoa, the priest who showed what it truly means to be a dad. Dominic himself lists down that soap as his most memorable project. He feels honored and grateful to be part of a show that aroused hope in the hearts of Filipinos amid an economic crisis that time.
READ: 14 insightful, inspiring takeaways from Santino’s conversations with Bro
“’Yan ang paborito ko talaga! I remember when pinatawag kami dito. Si Ma’am Charo ang nakipag-usap sa amin. I remember may problema ang ekonomiya at buhay natin noong time na ‘yun. Gusto nilang pagaanin by putting up a show to lighten up, pray, and have faith,” shares Dominic.
The Kapamilya actor reveals that the series was supposed to air for just a month but the unexpected reception from the viewers paved the way to its yearlong run. He admits the 7-year-old Zaijian Jaranilla won his admiration in an instant.
“’Yung first eksena ko dito, napabilib ako. Ito ‘yung pinapalabas sa teaser ng show na kakargahin ko ‘yung bata tapos umiiyak siya at tinatanong niya ‘Nasaan ‘yung tatay ko?’. ‘Yun ang unang eksena ko kay Zaijan and hands up ako doon sa bata. Napakahusay talaga,” says Dominic.
WATCH: 8 times Santino enlightened us with words of wisdom, reflection in May Bukas Pa
Dominic’s role as Father Jose proved that family isn’t measured by blood but through the amount of love that nests in one’s heart. Take another look into Dominic and Zaijan’s well-loved tandem in May Bukas Pa weeknights on ABS-CBN Primetime Bida.