If you would do a quick survey with your social media friends as respondents, or let’s say with anyone you chanced upon on the streets and ask them about local politics, they would say that the situation in the country isn’t funny for most Filipinos. With divisions in the political belief, character assassination here and there, dirty tactics and black propaganda…this election period has not even reached its peak.
To keep our sanity, although some people find politics a big circus and a potent source of entertainment, there is a place that everyone can turn to relieve some of the pressure. Political comedy television shows are a good way to help us to laugh at the things that we otherwise find disturbing.
This form of escapism is where TODA One I Love, a political romcom starring Kylie Padilla, Ruru Madrid, and David Licauco, is anchored in. And televiewers are loving it, which is why an extension is nothing but expected.
“It’s a story of family, love, and politics, interwoven with a lot of humor,” Kylie told Manila Standard in an interview.
“And I think, that what makes the series relevant. Not just because it’s the election period but people can relate to every situation that we feature in the series, including the characters, which are inspired by the people we normally see in our own community,” she carried on.
Since its premiere last February, TODA One I Love continues to be the nightly TV viewing habit of Filipinos. The success of this GMA News and Public Affairs’ election offering only proves how much the viewers appreciate the program’s premise and how much the fans support the KyRu loveteam, with Kylie and Ruru giving justice to their characters Gelay and Emong, respectively.
“It doesn’t feel like work when we’re on set so I guess the audience could see that, could feel that happy vibes. And everybody is in sync, everybody knows their character and it’s so fun,” Kylie said.
Adding more kilig to the equation is the note-worthy presence of chinito heartthrob David.
“I was intimidated by Kylie and Ruru at first. I feel like I have to keep up. But that’s good for me,” he said.
But beyond the funny lines and romance of this Kapuso primetime show, are the realities of Philippine politics, with every episode reflecting on what is happening in society.
Kylie has been nothing but thankful for the people who continue to support their show. In an Instagram post, she shared how grateful she was to everyone who continues to watch and support TODA One I Love, adding that she loves her character Gelay.
“Gelay is such a gem. She is too good. I love that she speaks her mind and just chooses to do the right thing every day,” the actress said. “I’m thankful to GMA Public Affairs for writing such a subtlety powerful character. She triumphs over the sexist tendencies of society and she does it with grace. She is head strong yet caring and full of heart.”
She also noted how the show has other beautiful characters, showing different kinds of women. “Our show is proudly ruled by women, strong smart, ambitious women eager to get what they want. I’m happy to be part of this project. It is definitely a show that is timely and relevant to our social climate,” she added.
TODA One I Love is written by Volta delos Santos, Robert Raz, Mario Banzon, and Aya Anunciacion. It is directed by Jeffrey Hidalgo and Nick Olanka.
Catch TODA One I Love weeknights on GMA Telebabad.
Kapuso viewers abroad can also catch TODA One I Love on GMA Pinoy TV. For the program guide, visit www.gmapinoytv.com.
