Titser preem on GMA

MANILA, Philippines - GMA News TV hopes to be a vehicle of change through Titser, a heartwarming tale of hope and resilience amid the grit and grime of a handicapped society.

Led by Lovi Poe, Titser depicts the grave ills of the Philippine education system via the everyday stories of barrio teachers and students. Joining Lovi in the 10-part series are Mara Lopez, Agot Isidro, Irma Adlawan, Gardo Versoza, Arnel Ignacio and Rocco Nacino together with Kapuso stars Carl Guevarra and Mikael Daez.

Titser follows the stories of best friends, Michelle and Rosa. Michelle, portrayed by Lovi, is a high school valedictorian from a poor barrio school who dreams of becoming a teacher, but whose only option after graduation is to work as a housemaid. Her best friend Rosa, played by Mara, is the class salutatorian who ends up as a single mother. The two girls struggle against fate and financial limitations to reach their goal of finishing school. Their mentor and inspiration is Teacher Sandra, portrayed by Agot, who leads her own fight against a corrupt principal played by Irma.

Titser is penned by Bayan Ko creator Nessa Valdellon with direction by Dr. Alvin Yapan, who also heads the Filipino Department of the Ateneo de Manila University. The series was inspired by Sandra Aguinaldo’s I-Witness documentary Iskul Ko No. 1 which is about an award-winning elementary schoolteacher who put herself through college by working as a house helper.

The 10-part original drama series Titser airs Sunday nights at 7:15 beginning tomorrow.