Teleserye, or "soap operas," has been an integral part of Filipino culture since it started in the 1960s. The word "teleserye" is derived from the words 'television’ and "serye," which is the Tagalog translation of "series." Mainly, classic shows produced in the country reach its massive success due to its melodramatic theme that tackles and portrays romance, family, fantasies (I am a  huge fan of this genre!) and social realities that definitely hit the soft spots of the viewers. Several iconic characters are still remembered up to this date with their lines that already made its mark in the film and television industry. As a prominent and productive country in creating shows, soap operas have been included in the daily lives of the Filipinos; as a way of bonding together while simultaneously watching cliche and predictable plots yet  very effective to the Filipino audience. 

I am certain that you cannot wait for news shows to end back in the days to continue the cliff hanging ending from last night's episode.  These teleseryes certainly have a special place in our hearts and memories. Here are some nostalgic dramas you can binge watch to reminisce about those good old days:

   Photo from Mermaid Wiki Fandom

Marina 

Who would have forgotten the Philippine fantasy story of the iconic mermaid played by Claudine Barretto? This follows the story of Marina, who was cursed as a child to be a mermaid once she reached the age of seven. Her parents, out of love, forced her to go to the sea, where she lives under the protection of other mermaids. The show also featured the villain known as "Dugong," which became an icon on Philippine TV.

According to the ABS-CBN network where Marina was televised, this show was a gamble as a new genre is introduced to the audience. However, due to its appeal and interesting plot, it achieved phenomenal success during its run.

                                                                                                               Photo from IMDb

May Bukas Pa

The teleserye that captured the hearts of millions of Filipinos due to its heartfelt and heartwarming story. Still remember Santino? Yep, he is the orphaned little boy who was adopted and raised by priests in the town of Bagong Pag-asa. He is believed to have seen Jesus in the flesh, whom he refers to as "Bro." Throughout the show, Santino became the driving force behind each character's quest to achieve healing and redemption in life. Played by Zaijan Jaranilla, May Bukas Pa aired for a whole year, where it gained multiple awards and became one of the highest-rated shows of all time.

                                                                                                       Photo from My Drama List

Kampanerang Kuba 

This television series is one of Anne Curtis's biggest breaks in show business. She plays "Imang," a hunchbacked girl who rings the bell in church and turns attractive and beautiful whenever an enchanted candle is lit. A star-studded show that brought acclaimed actresses Jean Garcia and Eula Valdez together also starred Jodi Santa Maria and Patrick Garcia, which spiced up Imang's life. It was inspired by the 1973 film of the same name, which starred Vilma Santos and Edgar Mortiz.

                                                                                                                   Photo from Pep.ph

Encantadia 

Remember the unique and unfamiliar words such as "Avisala Eshma," "Imaw," and "Brilyante"? This Kapuso Network series, whether in 2005 or 2016, is one of the biggest and grandest fantasy series in history. The show brings its audience to an enchanted paradise called Encantadia, divided into four kingdoms known as Adamya, Lireo, Sapiro, and Hathoria. Encantadia is also popular with its iconic characters, referred to as "Sang'gres," the four sisters, namely Pirena, Amihan, Alena, and Danaya, who fought for love, power, and the crown.

                                                                                              Photo from Mara Clara Wiki Fandom

                                                                                                              Photo from IMDb

Mara Clara 

Originally portrayed by Judy Ann Santos and Gladys Reyes in the 1990s, it was remade by Kathryn Bernardo and Julia Montes in 2010. A classic television show about deception and betrayal. Baby switching? Revelation?, this show is definitely one of those plots that will leave you hanging. Full of confrontation and slapping scenes, each line from every charavteres are truly remarkable.