Joem Bascon delivers a tour-de-force performance as Cruz Maguad in Maalaala Mo Kaya’s (MMK) two-part retelling of the tragic 2021 Maguad sibling killings, a story that gripped the Philippines with its shocking betrayal and profound grief.
Airing on iWantTFC and Kapamilya Channel in May 2025, the episode captures the Maguad family’s devastating loss of siblings Gwynn (Criza Taa) and Boyboy (Miguel Vergara) at the hands of their adopted sister, Janice (Karina Bautista). Bascon’s portrayal of a father shattered by unimaginable tragedy is both raw and restrained, cementing his place as one of Philippine television’s most compelling actors. His ability to embody Cruz’s quiet strength, unraveling into visceral sorrow, leaves viewers in awe, as his heartfelt and tearjerking performance resonates deeply.
Bascon, a Star Magic artist since 2006, brings an authenticity to Cruz that feels almost too real. His scenes, particularly those depicting the discovery of his children’s brutal murder, are gut-wrenching yet handled with a delicate balance of intensity and sensitivity.
One pivotal moment, where Cruz grapples with the betrayal of Janice, showcases Bascon’s mastery in conveying complex emotions—grief, disbelief, and quiet rage—through subtle expressions and measured dialogue.
As one X user, @jeks0197, poignantly noted, “Potek apakasakit naman nitong #MMKTheMaguadFamilyStory ang sakit na ng story, ang sakit pa gumanap ng mga artist Dimples Romana at Joem Bascon sa napakahusay na pag ganap.”
Potek apakasakit naman nitong #MMKTheMaguadFamilyStory ang sakit na ng story, ang sakit pa gumanap ng mga artista🥹 👏👏 Dimples Romana at Joem Bascon sa napakahusay na pag ganap. Tapos sabayan pa ng Story telling ng MMK. that scene na parang nandon si Ms D sa mismong Crime.🥹
— Jekson (@jeks0197) May 21, 2025
This sentiment echoes across social media, with netizens lauding Bascon’s ability to make viewers feel the weight of Cruz’s pain as if they were at the crime scene itself.
This performance is no anomaly for Bascon, whose artistry has long been celebrated. His accolades include a 2010 Gawad Urian Best Supporting Actor award for Noy and a FAMAS nomination for his unpredictable, layered role in Double Twisting Double Back. These honors underscore his versatility, whether playing protagonists or antagonists, and his commitment to crafting distinct, memorable characters. Bascon’s desire to carve his own identity, separate from early comparisons to Piolo Pascual and Sam Milby, shines through in this role, proving his depth and dedication to his craft. MMK deserves equal praise for its handling of this unsettling tale. The show balances intensity with tenderness, ensuring the Maguad family’s story is told with respect and emotional truth.
The ensemble, including Dimples Romana as Lovella, delivers a narrative that is both harrowing and healing, making Bascon’s standout performance a centerpiece of a profoundly moving production.
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