Discovering what really matters in GMA-7'S Pahiram Ng Isang Ina

CEBU, Philippines - GMA Network produces another high-caliber and family-oriented drama as it continues to dominate Philippine TV. On August 15, Pahiram Ng Isang Ina debuts in the undefeated afternoon block of GMA-7.

Pahiram Ng Isang Ina marks Carmina Villarroel’s return to doing drama, as she plays the main character, Emily. It also stars Maxene Magalona, one of the favorite drama actresses in the afternoon block. As Emily’s kind cousin, Andrea, Maxene reunites with Marco Alcaraz who portrays Andrea’s boyfriend named Ryan.

Meanwhile, tweens Bea Binene and Jake Vargas receive their biggest challenge yet - having their own TV series. As Berna and Luke in the story, they compete for the love and attention of one mother.

Pahiram Ng Isang Ina recounts the life of Emily, a compassionate and successful businesswoman. She has always longed to have a family since she lost her parents as a kid. But, because of a bad experience, Emily has lost her faith in people and trusted only those who live in her mansion.

When she meets the siblings, Berna and Andoy (Martin Delos Santos), Emily feels a strong connection and empathizes with them for they are orphans just like her. The two, on the other hand, believe that Emily could be the answer to their prayers, that she could stand as their mother.

One day, some men try to kidnap Emily and put her life in danger. Berna and Andoy find her and help her get to a hospital. Although Emily survives, the trauma causes her to be in catatonic state - always blank and unable to talk. Berna and Andoy often visit her and grow more attached to her. They also do not deny it when people perceive them as Emily’s children.

Andrea soon discovers Berna and Andoy’s pretension and decides to intervene. But, instead of driving them away, she even supports their claim that Emily is their mother. Andrea believes that their pure love might help her cousin get better.

Given Emily’s condition, Andrea now manages the family business and the mansion. She cares for Emily so much that she often neglects her relationship with Ryan. Thus, the latter cannot help but think that Andrea’s cousin is a hindrance to their love.

Another conflict arises when Emily’s former husband, Johnny (Antonio Aquitania), returns with his son, Luke. Johnny knows that Emily treats Luke as her real son. Thus, he and his girlfriend, Eloisa (Bubbles Paraiso), work against Berna and Andoy to keep them from having a share in Emily’s fortune.

Eventually, Emily recovers from her condition and must now choose whom she will trust. Will she accept the strangers Berna and Andoy or the deceitful Johnny and Luke? To whom will she be a mother - to two strangers or to the son of her former husband?

Meanwhile, Andrea continues to struggle as Ryan competes with Emily for her time and attention. Can she make Ryan understand that her cousin needs her? Or will she have to part ways with him?

Completing the cast of Pahiram Ng Isang Ina are: Tony Mabesa as Carlos, lawyer of Emily’s family and business partner of her parents; Jim Pebangco as Karyo, Emily’s loyal driver and body guard; Shyr Valdez as Veron, Berna and Andoy’s cruel aunt; Rita Iringan as Nenet, Veron’s daughter; Mike Magat as Egay, Veron’s husband; Ama Quiambao as Lourdes, chief maidservant of Emily’s house.

With Director Joel Lamangan and Head Writer Denoy Navarro-Punio, Pahiram Ng Isang Ina depicts how riches cannot make up for the lack of things that really matter such as family, love and trust.

Beginning August 15, Pahiram Ng Isang Ina airs Monday to Friday after Eat Bulaga on GMA-7’s Dramarama sa Hapon. It can also be seen in the U.S., Canada, Middle East, Europe and the Asia Pacific on GMA Pinoy TV starting August 17. (FREEMAN)