MANILA, Philippines – Sarah Lahbati (photo) topbills Maalaala Mo Kaya for the first time tomorrow night at 8, as she portrays Bituing Walang Ningning musical star Monica Cuenco.
At an early age, Monica joined singing contests in her province. Together with her mother Myrna (Aiko Melendez), who is also a singer, they would perform at wakes, birthday parties and other events.
She was only eight years old when she ended up under the care of her aunt Ethel (Francine Prieto) after her mother succumbed to cervical cancer. To support her schooling, Monica peddled rice cakes. To attract more customers, Monica serenaded them with her sweet voice.
In 2010, Ethel convinced her to join ABS-CBN’s talent search Star Power where she finished second runner-up. It opened doors for her and also gave her a taste of the showbiz. But Monica got caught up in the lifestyle, which affected her relationships with people close to her. As offers and gigs started to dwindle, Monica returned to Ormoc and resumed her normal life. Until one day, opportunity knocked once more.