Head writer Suzette Doctolero has issued a detailed clarification following a viral comment suggesting that ‘Encantadia 2016’ was not as strong as the original 2005 series, a remark that quickly stirred discussion among fans and cast members of the Kapuso fantasy franchise.
The controversy stemmed from a circulating post that read, “Encantadia 2016 as per Headwriter Suzette Doctolero is not as good as 2005.” Several stars of Encantadia 2016—including Glaiza de Castro, Kylie Padilla, Gabbi Garcia, and Sanya Lopez—reposted the statement, while actor Rocco Nacino reacted with, “yes @gmaencantadia???”
In response, Doctolero addressed the issue through a lengthy Facebook post, opening with: “Chaka ang Encantadia 2016?! Kailangan kong magbigay-linaw, lalo’t alam ko kung gaano ninyo minahal ang Encantadia, at taos-puso akong nagpapasalamat doon.”
She was quick to stress that her frustration was never directed at the cast. “Una sa lahat: wala akong reklamo sa cast. Mahuhusay sila,” she wrote, explaining that as early as 2014, she already felt pressure while developing the 2016 requel. She cited the strong legacy of the 2005 cast, the relative inexperience of many of the newer actors at the time, and intense competition from rival programs.
As head writer, Doctolero said she made creative decisions aimed at ensuring the show’s success. “Bilang head writer, malinaw ang responsibilidad ko: gawin ang lahat para manalo ang show,” she said.
She explained that the 2016 version was designed to be more plot-driven, with the “rewind” portion fast-tracked to immediately introduce the main conflict. “Pinili kong gawing mas mabilis o plot-oriented ang naratibo… May mga tinanggal at binawasan akong kwento… para hindi bumagal ang takbo,” she noted, acknowledging that this approach differed greatly from the more lyrical and reflective tone of the 2005 series.
Doctolero admitted that while the strategy worked in terms of ratings, it came at a cost. “Nag-work naman ang desisyong ito: nag-rate ang show. Pero alam ko rin na may mga hindi kami naikuwento,” she wrote, adding that the compromises were painful from a creative standpoint.
She also addressed major storyline changes, including the focus on the Amihan–Ybrahim love team, the departure of key characters, and production limitations. “Kung pwede lang mahimatay noon, nangyari na sana, buti na lang at matibay-tibay ang aming mga espiritu. The show must go on lagi kasi,” she shared candidly.
Ultimately, Doctolero said her viral remark came from a place of deep attachment rather than criticism. “Chaka nga ba ang Enca 2016? Alam ninyong hindi. Alam kong hindi,” she wrote.
“Para lang akong ina, na kapag ang aking anak (enca) ay nilalait ng iba… pero ilalaban ko ng patayan. Pero kapag kami na lang, malalait ko, hindi bilang atake, kungdi dahil kilalang kilala at mahal na mahal ko.”
She concluded by addressing the present direction of the franchise, noting the greater challenges faced in 2025 and the shift toward expanding the Encantadia universe. She explained the vision behind Encantadia Chronicles, which introduces new-generation characters while still keeping the original cast integral to the long-term plan.
As of this writing, ‘Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre’ continues to air on GMA Prime and has reportedly outperformed rival programs, including ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo’, on multiple occasions.
