As ABS-CBN’s drama, Init Sa Magdamag, heats up Filipinos’ late primetime viewing, the Network’s string of sexy dramas, some of which were hits, while some, not-so.
ABS-CBN has been known for producing many unforgettable soap operas, with some considered among the highest-rated ever in the local television history. While the traditional soap opera is known for its repetitive plotlines, ABS-CBN still managed to introduce a few tweaks to the format, by adopting a variety of genres to the classic Pinoy drama. Among those experiments, are its many sexy dramas, whose arguably main target audience are the masculine viewers.
Alyna (2010).
This afternoon series is one of the most successful Precious Hearts Romances titles-turned TV series. Starring Shaina Magdayao, in the title role Alyna. It revolves around Alyna Natividad, who endured a traumatic childhood. She has to navigate her life alone. One day, a man arrived and turned her life around.
The series was among the Network’s top raters in 2010, ending its successful run with more than 100 episodes, which was already a feat for a PHR title.
Eva Fonda (2008).
It’s Cristine Reyes’s launching role on ABS-CBN, when she transferred from GMA Network. The Starstruck alumna assumed the title role, which was based on the 1976 film, of the same title, which starred Alma Moreno.
It served as Reyes’s launchpad into starring on several similarly themed series and movies, on ABS-CBN. The story revolved around the title role and her quest to seek vengeance at those who raped her. It also chronicled her rise towards becoming a successful woman.
Margarita (2007).
This short-lived pre-primetime teleserye, was an ABS-CBN’s experimental drama, reportedly to gauge whether specific alumni of its hit reality series, Pinoy Big Brother, have a chance at making it big in showbiz.
The show starred Wendy Valdez in the title role, alongside Bruce Quebral and Diether Ocampo. The show explored the world of burlesque show dancers, as well as Magarita’s bid to find her true love. The show ended after 40 episodes due to poor ratings.
Kristine (2010).
The Kristine series was among Precious Hearts Romances most successful titles, with more than 54 books published.
It was also one of the most popular titles ever adapted to a soap opera format. The show starred Cristine Reyes, Zanjoe Marudo, Denise Laurel, and Rafael Rossell. It aired as part of ABS-CBN’s Primetime Bida Block, it posted compellingly high ratings on its late timeslot.
Katorse (2009).
Based on the 1980 sexy film of the same name, Katorse, served as a launching vehicle for some of ABS-CBN’s newest teen stars, especially Erich Gonzales.
She played the lead role, Nene. The show touched on the sensitive topic of teenage pregnancy, as well as teleserye staples like poverty, politics, and romance.
Gonzales starred with Xian Lim, Enchong Dee, and Ejay Falcon, who each emerged as an in-demand TV and movie star.
Sabel (2011).
This pre-primetime drama was Jessy Mendiola’s first starring role on ABS-CBN. She starred with Joseph Marco and the late AJ Perez.
The story revolves around the eponymous character, Sabel, whose life got cursed because of her parents’ tragedies.
The role of Perez served as Sabel’s main love interest in the story. The show was also Joseph Marco’s launching role on ABS-CBN, following his transfer from GMA Network.
Thus, Init Sa Magdamag is not ABS-CBN’s first sensual drama. The aforementioned similarly-themed series aired on the Network as well. It was not a new game, but it’s something that the Network took a risk. Some may have won the ratings, but some perhaps missed the mark.
