Do you still remember ‘Abangan ang Susunod Na Kabanata’, the hit ABS-CBN sitcom from the 90s?
Considered one of the best satirical sitcoms ever produced on Philippine primetime television, it aired every Tuesday night and even earned an award at an international contest in 1991. It was a true showcase of Jose Javier Reyes’ genius in storytelling, brought to life through Johnny Manahan’s expert direction.
The series boasted a star-studded cast made up of familiar faces from different programs, all blending seamlessly on screen with undeniable chemistry. Some performances stood out for their natural delivery—Anjo Yllana as the mentally unstable and violent Dino, and the late Sammy Lagmay, who perfectly embodied the role of a character sharing his own name. That sitcom became his big break.
Tessie Tomas nailed her parody of former First Lady Imelda Marcos, while Nova Villa, her poor counterpart on the show, brought her trademark elegance and charm, also known for her role as Aling Ason in ‘Home Along Da Riles’. Roderick Paulate’s portrayal of Benny dela Croix was among his memorable roles playing a gay character, while Carmi Martin’s portrayal of Clara carried a certain naïve charm. Sammy’s on-screen wife (played either by Nena Perez Rubio or Winnie Cordero) embodied the archetype of the typical, outspoken spouse.
Jojo Isla’s Del, with his aviator shades and menacing presence, perfectly captured the look of a villain. His boss, Anding Tengco, played brilliantly by Noel Trinidad, became the quintessential image of a corrupt Filipino politician—familiar in the eyes of every Juan.
The sitcom’s punchlines almost always landed, especially when tackling hot issues in Philippine politics. Abangan ang ‘Susunod Na Kabanata’ wasn’t just about making people laugh; it was also about making them think and stay aware of what was going on in the country.
Its six-year run proved how much audiences loved the show, even if it came after the long-standing success of ‘Palibhasa Lalake’ and ‘Home Along Da Riles’. In 2001, it returned under the title ‘Eto Na Ang Susunod Na Kabanata’, but lasted only two months, possibly due to changes in the cast, evolving audience tastes, and a different overall execution. Still, it was a huge achievement for Direk Joey and Mr. M to have created such a timeless piece of Filipino satire.
Today, with a generation that’s often quick to take offense at even the smallest jokes, I can’t help but wonder—would a satirical comedy like ‘Abangan ang Susunod Na Kabanata’ still work?
