Sheena as Mama

MANILA, Philippines - Sheena Halili will play a young mother named Agnes Santos on GMA 7’s Binoy Henyo, which will premiere today before 24 Oras on the Kapuso pre-primetime block. Her latest character has made Sheena’s “collection” of TV characters interesting and diverse. Her acting range widens as Sheena takes on more mature roles.“I asked (the management), ‘Are you sure that you want me to play a mom?’” recalls Sheena when the Agnes role was first offered to her. “I’m 26. If I got pregnant at the age of 19 or 20, it’s possible for me to have a six-year-old child now.” That’s the age of Binoy, her son in the family drama series, to be played by new child star David Remo. The show’s title seems to be inspired by the iconic Eat, Bulaga! segment, where contestants display wit, intelligence and grace under pressure.

“(Playing Agnes) is a challenge for  me,” says Sheena, who has no hesitation to play the role because “for sure, there are also stars who will accept the same role when offered to them.”

Each taping day, Sheena tries to establish a mother-son rapport with David. She has to show a genuine care and love for him.“I play with him,” she shares. “He sleeps beside me on my folding bed during taping breaks. I ask his grandmother and father things about him — his likes and fears — so I’ll get to know him well. I hope this will (be seen or reflected onscreen).”

Her role is indeed challenging given Sheena’s status. But showing affection towards kids comes easy since “I’m the eldest (in the family). But my siblings are all grown-up. I have looked after young cousins.”

How is it working with David on the set?

“He is hyper,” replies Sheena. “Wala akong take na maayos ang hitsura ko. He is like Jillian (Ward). But Jillian is matanong. He is malikot… But when you say 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, he seems to have the on-and-off button. He knows his lines.”

In Binoy Henyo, Agnes, who has a bright son, only reached grade two. Her frustration will emanate from the fact that “I couldn’t send (Binoy) to school because I don’t have the means.” Agnes will try to look for her husband (played by Luis Alandy) but fail to locate his whereabouts. This is also the reason why Agnes and Binoy go to Manila and stay with the former’s aunt to be portrayed by Nova Villa.

“I’m a proud and supportive mom,” says Sheena. “I will be there for him in every endeavor he wishes to go into. I’ll do everything to give him what he needs. I’m a typical mom. The father is not aware that he has a son with me. Before leaving for Manila, he offered me marriage. Whether the kid is bright or average, kids need guidance from moms, especially now and that (more) mothers are becoming career-oriented. The age of six is the time a parent should inculcate in children the right values… From what I know, the age between six to 13 is when moms should be there, explaining to kids what is right from wrong.”

Like all other women, Sheena dreams of having her own family.

“I’m also praying that to God,” she says. “But before it happens, I have to meet the right guy. He has to come along first. I’m also praying for it. I hope before I reach 30, I’ll meet him and know him.”

Sheena says she has had suitors before but “if they really like me, they have to wait. Gusto kong malaman kung matiyaga sila sa akin. I want to get to know them better.” The Kapuso actress thinks that God will answer prayers in His perfect time.

Meantime, Sheena will play a princess off screen who patiently waits for her Knight in Shining Armor to come along. After all, patience is a virtue kids must learn early on in life.