Wow Mali | A Retrospective on ABC 5's Longest-Running Gag and Prank Show Starring Joey de Leon

Wow Mali, (translated as Wow! Wrong), was the longest-running gag and prank show hosted by Joey de Leon which started airing from May 25, 1996 on ABC-5 (now known as TV5). Wow Mali has since enjoyed phenomeal success year after year thanks to its hilarious and inventive pranks presented in a candid/hidden camera format; and in-between comedic segments with its hosts Joey-de Leon, his co-hosts, along with the studio audience. Let's go down memory lane with the iconic Filipino gag and prank show "Wow Mali" that completed many Filipinos Sunday night here on Retro Pilipinas.

Wow Mali - The Gag and Prank Show
About Wow Mali

Wow Mali, features pranksters and other talents, who later became big in their own right later on in their careers (like Mike "Pekto" Nacua, Doray Alaskadora, and Krissy) as they hit the streets to prank unsuspecting people going about with their daily lives. The pranks usually ranges from a harmless inquiry of "Pwede bang Magtanong?" (Can I ask you something) to a brush with a gang of seemingly hardened thugs which later starts performing "drag." Wow Mali resonated with a lot of Filipinos including kids and became a part of the Filipino culture as it became part of the colloquial lingo. The expression "WOW Mali" or "NA-WOW-MALI AKO" became a common expression whenever someone makes a mistake or became a victim of a prank or a ruse. Later on people start becoming more aware of the pranks and recognize the talents and prank format.

Wow Mali bagged a number of awards and nominations including the 1st MTRCB Television Awards for Best Comedy Show (2009), and the winner of the KBP Golden Dove Awards for the Best Gag Show (
1997, 2005 and 2009).

Wow Mali (2009) Opening Theme
Wow Mali Series Intro


"Wow Mali"'s theme song was composed and produced by Dan Salamante
A Retrospective on Wow Mali
A Look Back on Wow Mali



What can be said about the premiere gag and prank show's original run on ABC-5? All I can say is it's one of the most influential shows for me as a millenial and child of the 90s. I remember my parents sending me off to bed after the show finished every Sunday as we used to sleep early before 10 PM at that time. We often ended our day with a big laugh and smile to our faces as we bond with how people get pranked on camera. Who would have known that they will be widely and warmly accepted by almost every Filipino family and Filipino mass at that time? Joey de Leon and Wow Mali helped get me through a week knowing that I get to laugh out loud over the weekends. It was a simpler times without the Internet when all you have is a CRT-TV and pranks.

Classic Wow Mali pranking Jeepney passengers by using bartered produce/items as payment.



I don't know if Wow Mali was the first Filipino reality-based hidden camera prank based show but it sure feel like it. Maybe someone from the comments section can correct me if not. I do remember local syndicated run of classic American or Canadian prank and gag shows like Candid Camera and America's Funniest Videos, but don't remember anything that come close to the success and staying power of Wow Mali. I can only recall some of the classic pranks mainly the "Pwede bang Magtanong...?" (Can I ask a question?) prank wherein the usual Filipino response is "Ano?" (What) then the prankster will ask again until she gets or don't get a "Yes." It was a bit dumb and witty at the same time, because that is the right answer to the question that ask permission to ask, but we automatically answer with a silence yes, then proceed with "What". Some of the other pranks would probably not fly in this snowflake politically correct and charged climate as most Wow Mali pranks tip toes on the line of being offensive. Good thing that there are still many Filipinos who still have good sense of humor and not as snowflake as those calling for political correctness. I still say, as long as it doesn't break the law or physically hurt someone, it's all good in my book. Before you had modern influencers and content creators with their fake and scripted pranks, you first had Wow Mali and later followed by other shows like Bitoy's Funniest Videos.
Classic Wow Mali "networking" seminar attendees prank.



What about you guys? What are your fondest, favorite, or laugh out loud memories, episodes, or moments in one of the longest-running ABC 5's gag show? Share your thoughts and opinion about Wow Mali in the comments section below:

Calvento Files | A Retrospective on ABS-CBN's True Crime Filipino Show

Calvento Files, was an investigative program and documentary drama (docudrama) hosted by veteran broadcast journalist Tony Calvento that aired from December 4, 1995 to October 2, 1998 on ABS-CBN. Calvento Files was a docudrama that chronicles and archives some of the most disturbing and heartbreaking true crimes recorded by the police and various witnesses in the Philippines during that time. Let's go down memory lane with the iconic Filipino true crime docudrama "Calvento Files" here on Retro Pilipinas.


Calvento Files - The Show
About Calvento Files

ABS-CBN, in its pursuit of quality entertainment and public service, has come up with yet another experimental format: TONY CALVENTO FILES.

The program is envisioned as a two-hour docu-drama combining the standards of the number one drama anthology, Maalaala Mo Kaya and the number one public affairs program, Magandang Gabi Bayan.

Tony Calvento Files will definitely arouse the catharsis and awareness of the Filipino audience; also a way of public service - by helping convict criminals and making the viewing public more cautious in their dealings with other people especially with their loved ones. Above all, it hopes to convey a message and lesson for the viewers so they will not fall prey to the dangers posed to them in their everyday living.

Source: ABS-CBN via Wayback Machine

A Retrospective on Calvento Files
A Look Back on Calvento Files

What can be said about the Tony Calvento Files docudrama back on its original run on ABS-CBN? Well, this is one of the most memorable Filipino television shows for me as a child of the 90s. I think I was around the age of 10-12 when it aired during 1995-1998 and although I've forgotten most of the episodes, there is one thing that I can be certain of and that is Calvento Files was a disturbing Philippine television show to watch. I guess my parents are partly to blame for that, letting me watch such a graphic investigative police and crime program about murder, rape and other true crimes that occurred in the country all the way to that year.



I don't know how ABS-CBN's Calvento Files docudrama holds up to today's standards, but I remembered being disturbed as a kid by how graphic the portrayal of these crimes was presented. I wish ABS-CBN can release a DVD, Blu-ray or maybe release the episodes of this classic docudrama on their streaming services for us to at least get the chance to re-experience them as adults. Where the performance really that great or was that simply just a mind of a kid like me seemingly introduced of what horrors some people are capable of towards their fellow humans. I am a big horror fan and someone who likes to watch true crimes related stuff from time to time, so if ever this gets re-released, this fits my preference perfectly well. This is what I love when doing retrospectives here on Retro Pilipinas, I can get to talk about something that has become a part of my life and everybody else's that seemingly everyone has a vague recollection about. When looking at anything about the show, I can't seem to find further details about it except for some wiki entries and that the original host, Tony Calvento, passed away due to Cancer in October 2017.


I wish I can find a breakdown of the cases covered per episode but alas, there is none! There is one episode though, the Calvento Files pilot episode on the Oroquieta massacre and those found in the film adaptation of the now-defunct ABS-CBN investigative program. Guess that is what is expected on anything that dates before the age of the Internet and there are only some who have archived such show for preservation. It's a good thing that we can get a glimpse of what Calvento files (a snippet of sort) was like as it got a big-screen adaptation with 1997's Calvento Files: The Movie where you can check out the trailer here:

Calvento Files: The Movie

Episode 1, Balintuwad, is the story of a fifteen-year-old epileptic girl who was gang-raped and drowned by her captors the night she sneaked out to watch her sister's prom. Eventually, the perpetrators are revealed to be schoolteachers, the very people who are supposed to safeguard children's welfare. Based on the true story of Valen Lanistosa of Dueñas, Iloilo. Episode 2, Inay, May Momo, tells the story of a young mother and her daughter who undergo a terrifying ordeal when the husband is hacked to death by the mother's spurned lover. The widow presses charges against the killer, but the killer hounds both the woman and her traumatized daughter in an attempt to scare them to drop the charges against him.

Soure: IMDB

I might as well, re-watch this film and do a crossover movie review between Retro Pilipinas and Pinoy Movie Blogger (a blog which I am also the author of), to just add to this retrospective. Watch out for that update soon.


What about you guys? What are your fondest, favorite, or disturbing memories, episodes, or cases covered in this phenomenal ABS-CBN 90s true-crime docudrama? Share your thoughts and opinion about Calvento Files in the comments section below:

Sineskwela | An ABS-CBN 90s Educational Show for Children Retrospective

Sineskwela was Filipino educational television show for children that aired in ABS-CBN during the 90s. Sineskwela which was alternatively known as "School on Air", was produced by ABS-CBN Foundation with the Science Education Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Department of Education (DepEd). Let's go down memory lane with this iconic educational show for kids called Sineskwela. Tayo na sa Sineskwela...


Sineskwela - The Show
About Sineskwela

Sineskwela presented and explained otherwise complicated principles and concepts of science and technology through dramatization and visual effects. It also demonstrated the practical application of science in familiar life situations, thereby allowing the information to be easily understood and appreciated by its young viewers.

Sineskwela was a curriculum-based show and catered to public elementary students from Grade 2 to 6. The DepEd mandated that it be shown in the science class of each grade level at least once a week. Five episodes--one for each of the five grade levels--were shown every week. Each episode presented different problems and situations in which the characters had a chance to explore the world of science. The characters would gather information not just through library research but also through laboratory experiments, field investigations, on-the-scene reporting, and use of visual effects. An example would be the show's characters, Anatom and Agatom, shrinking to the size of molecules and entering biological organisms such as a flower or a dog. In these mini-adventures, they would encounter several personifications of bacteria, pollen, and other possible objects who explain the related scientific theories and phenomena.


The Sineskwela cast included Christine Bersola playing as the character Anatom, Brennan Espartinez as Agatom, Sheena Ramos as Palikpik, Maan Munsayac as Kulitsap, Roobak Valle as Ugatpuno, Frederico Gonzales as Bok, Giselle Sanchez as Ate Giselle, and Winnie Cordero as Ate Winnie.

Source: Sineskwela on WikiPilipinas

Sineskwela Opening Theme
Sineskwela Series Intro



Sineskwela Theme Song
Composed by: Ryan Cayabyab

Bawat bata may tanong,
Ba't ganito, bat gano'n?
Hayaang buksan ang isipan
Sa science o agham...

Tayo na sa Sineskwela
Tuklasin natin ang siyensya
Buksan ang pag-iisip
Tayo'y likas na scientist!

Tayo na sa Sineskwela
Tuklasin natin ang siyensya
Kinabukasan ng ating bayan
Siguradong makakamtan!

Sa daigdig ng agham
Tuklasin ang kaalaman
Halina't lumipad
Sa daigdig ng isipan

Tayo na sa Sineskwela
Tuklasin natin ang siyensya
Kinabukasan ng ating bayan
Siguradong makakamtan

Kaya't habang maaga
Mag-aral ng siyensya
Sa teknolohiya,
Ang buhay ay gaganda... ahhhh...

Tayo na sa Sineskwela
Tuklasin natin ang siyensya
Buksan ang pag-iisip
Tayo'y likas na scientist

Tayo na sa Sineskwela
Tuklasin natin ang siyensya
Kinabukasan ng ating bayan
Si-gu-ra-dong maka-kamtaaaaaan...




What is there to say about Sineskwela? Actually quite a lot. Well, that is for us who grew up watching Sineskwela back in the 90s. Sineskwela was a good educational show. It piqued the curiosity and interest of grade school students in Science and Technology. It re-define how Science should be taught. That Science can be learned and presented in a fun and entertaining way and not as a dull and boring cold textbook type of one. This is probably one of the factor, why I considered Science as one of my favorite subjects back in grade school, well except for the tedious memorization during recitations and exams hahaha. It featured a good format which seems to be lacking with most contemporary educational programming (2015 - as of the time of this writing) that major television networks are coming up with nowadays. Although Sineskwela did use various stock footage from other foreign Science shows way back in the days (maybe for the lack of other resource), the show was still able to properly explain science to kids.



Some episodes of Sineskwela have been uploaded on Youtube for you to have an idea of what the show looks and feels like. Simply search "sineskwela" on Youtube.
Some Sineskwela episodes that truly left a mark with me are the episode dedicated to photosynthesis with discussion of chlorophyll; and water treatment process before it becomes safe and drinkable with a jingle that describes the process of sedimentation, filtration, boiling, and distillation. Sineskwela, just like Beakman's World were a groundbreaking edutainment shows for children that will forever be in the hearts of those who grew up watching them and has a penchant for Science and learning.


How about you guys? What are your fondest and favorite memories, episodes, characters, and topics covered in the phenomenal ABS-CBN 90s Science-theme edutainment kids show? Have you seen newer contemporary Science educational programs that has the same feel and vibe to Sineskwela? Do these new shows work or have done a better work that what most of us grew up with Sineskwela? Share your thoughts and opinion about Sineskwela in the comments section below:

Ang TV | An ABS-CBN 90s Youth-Oriented Variety Gag Show Retrospective

Ang TV was a Filipino youth-oriented (kids') gag variety show that aired in ABS-CBN during the 90s. Ang TV originally aired from October 19, 1992 to January 3, 1997 with a 30-minute show format airing on a daily afternoon 4:30 schedule. The show was notable for it's opening line "4:30 Na! Ang TV na!", and gags opening up with "Esmyuskee" (a play of the word "excuse me") and "Nge!" after the delivery of the punchline. Let's go down memory lane Ang TV, the iconic kids gag show that created most of the most notable ABS-CBN stars as of late.


Ang TV - The Show
About Ang TV

Ang TV ("The TV") was a kids' "gag-variety" show in the Philippines from ABS-CBN. Prior to 1992, Director Johnny Manahan enlisted a group of multi-talented kids (& pre-teens) to create the first ever gag-variety show for youngsters in the Philippines.


Most of the country's (ABS-CBN) celebrities can point their humble beginnings to Ang TV. Claudine Barretto, Angelu de Leon, Jolina Magdangal, Rica Peralejo, Paula Peralejo, John Prats, Camille Prats, John Prats, Paolo Contis, Angelica Panganiban, Patrick Garcia, Christopher Roxas, Jan Marini, Victor Neri, Kaye Abad, Roselle Nava, Maybelyn dela Cruz, Katya Santos, Carol Banawa, Baron Geisler, Kristine Hermosa, Anna Larrucea, and Vandolph Quizon are some of the most notable stars that jump-started their careers as mainstays of the variety show. A few adults drops in from time to time to join in the craziness of the show which includes Winnie Cordero, Joji Isla, Giselle Sanchez, and Joy Viado.

Ang TV Opening Theme
Ang TV Series Intro



Ang TV's theme: "Do Wah Diddy Diddy"
Manfred Mann


Luckily there is a clip on Youtube that captures what Ang TV was like back in the days.
Check out this Ang TV show clip:






While most GMA Network talents and celebrities have That's Entertainment to thank for, ABS-CBN's have Ang TV. It features some of the most notable celebrities as of the featuring of this blog dedicated to the show (2015). Some of the names have been included on the "About" section of this look back. There are a personal few favorites like Lailani Navarro and Lidsay Custodio for their sheer majestic beauty; and Jolina Magdangal, Roselle Nava, and Carol Banawa for their singing prowess. It is quite entertaining to bee able to see how celebrities grow up and see how their career unfolds in front of the television (or film) screen. I am talking about how such innocent and adorable young looking kids as these kids are will eventually become the next iconic stars of tomorrow in various fields of entertainment (theater, singing, film, television) and outside of it (politics). Of course since I am not big into those kinds of stuf as a 90s Filipino kid back in the days, I remember Ang TV for its very short skits and gags. Well what do you expect for a 30 minute long show with many television commercials in between. Going Bulilit is probably one of its spiritual successor but to most growing up during the 90s this is the definitive kids' gag-variety show.


How about you guys? What do you think about this iconic ABS-CBN youth-oriented gag variety show? Do you have any favorite moments on the shows run back in the 90s? Any favorite celebrities making an appearance or a mainstay? What's your fondest memory of the show? Share your thoughts about Ang TV in the comments section below:

Magandang Gabi, Bayan | An ABS-CBN 80s News Magazine Program Retrospective

Magandang Gabi, Bayan (also Magandang Gabi... Bayan) was one of the longest-running and top-rating ABS-CBN News & Current Affairs' news magazine program initially hosted by "Kabayan" Noli de Castro (hosted from 1988 to 2004) that originally an from August 21, 1988 to December 31, 2005. Magandang Gabi, Bayan (abbreviated as MGB) was an ABS-CBN consistent top-rating early fringe (late-afternoon)show initially aired every Saturdays at 6:00 PM that features various topics like contemporary national issues, poverty, crime, corruption, scandals, various inspirational and uplifting real life Filipino (sometimes international) stories. Let's go down memory lane as Retro Pilipinas takes a look back on Magandang Gabi, Bayan.

Magandang Gabi, Bayan - The Show
About Magandang Gabi... Bayan! (MGB)

Magandang Gabi, Bayan (directly translates to "Good Evening Nation!") started on August 21, 1988 with its first anchored by Manuel Leuterio de Castro, Jr., better known as "Kabayan" Noli de Castro (2004–2010 former Vice President of the Philippines). Magandang Gabi, Bayan or simply MGB aims to expose illegalities of some Philippine government officials as well as to render public service to the Filipino people. Initially intended to be a news magazine program it later evolved into a hardhitting investigative journalism program. The now defunct show continues to hold the title for the leading and longest public service program in the Philippines.
After De Castro's won the 2001 Philippine senatorial elections, the program brought in new hosts Katherine "Kat-Kat" de Castro (De Castro's daughter), Erwin Tulfo and Henry Omaga-Diaz. The show returned for one episode (hosted by De Castro) on October 2011 for a Halloween Special via ABS-CBN's Sunday's Best.

Memories of Magandang Gabi, Bayan!
Remembering Magandang Gabi... Bayan! (MGB)

The best memories I had (being a 90's kid) of Magandang Gabi Bayan or MGB was with their annual Halloween special episodes. If the coming Staurday is close to November 1, then the avid Filipino couch potatoes are in for a spooktacular treat by Magandang Gabi... Bayan's Halloween specials.

Magandang Gabi Bayan 2004 Halloween Special
Here is a sample of what we have experience back when MGB was still the king!

Don't get me wrong, MGB was a pioneer when it comes to investigative journalism in the Philippines with its interesting episodes each week, but the one that everyone will truly remember is the scary halloween specials. Thanks to Philippines rich culture and tradition, Filipinos will always have some spooky experience to share. Whether you believe it or not, MGB was there to make sure to re-tell and feature these real-life stories of supernatural horror. MGB used well-done re-enactments which can be compared to a good Filipino horror flick. Creepy atmosphere, terrifying scoring, believable make-up and practical effects is what Filipinos usually see on a MGB Halloween Special. Those who made MGB part of their Saturday television routine can probably say that the year won't be complete without a Magandang Gabi... Bayan Horror episode.

Magandang Gabi... Bayan's Halloween specials made me the horror genre fan that I am today. How about you guys? What is/are your most memorable episode or story remembered featured from this ABS-CBN long-running and top rating news magazine program? Share your thoughts about Magandang Gabi... Bayan in the comments section below:

Batibot | A PTV 80s Educational Show for Children Retrospective

Batibot was a popular Filipino children's television program based on Sesame Street. Batibot, a Filipino word which directly translates to "small, but strong and robust" premiered in May 14, 1984, with the name Sesame! which was eventually renamed to Batibot several years later. Batibot used both English and Filipino as the media of communication back when it was still Sesame! but became a completely Filipino language children's educational show once it transitioned to Batibot. Batibot broadcast nationwide from Monday to Friday on the Philippine television networks Radio Philippines Network (RPN) from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. and on People's Television (PTV) (now National Broadcasting Network) from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. In 1991, the show switched to ABS-CBN but switched back to RPN in 1994 after the former decided to produce its own set of children TV programs through the ABS-CBN Foundation. In 1995, PCTVF signed a contract with GMA Network and Batibot was shown at its original morning time slot. It ran from May 14, 1984 – June 30, 2002 and later came back on TV5. Let's go down memory lane as we remember Batibot.

Batibot - The Show
About Batibot

Batibot featured both humans, muppets, and mascots as its main cast of characters. batibot is one of the Philippines' longest running educational kids program. The original Batibot human cast included Kuya Bodjie, (played by Bodjie Pascua), Batibot's resident story-teller know for his opening line "Mga Bata..." when starting with his stories; Ate Sienna (Sienna Olaso) a college student; Kuya Mario (Junix Inocian); Ate Isay (Isay Alvarez-Seña) popular for her "Kapit-bahay" music; and Kuya Ching (Ching Arellano), Batibot's resident jeepney driver.

BATIBOT Television Special and Original Cast Reunion

In 2007, A Batibot Reunion and Tribute Special was featured in a segment in Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho. Check it out here fellow Batang Batibot(s).

Some of Batibot's most notable muppet/mascot cast included Pong Pagong, a clumsy, pink full-body turtle wearing a baseball cap from Jose Rizal's story of "Ang Pagong at ang Matsing"; Kiko Matsing, a brown monkey version of Sesame Street's Oscar which is also Ang Pagong at ang Matsing; Koko Kwik-Kwak, or Koko for short that wears an ethnic-inspired beanie cap with a propeller made of green leaves; Manang Bola, the forgetful fortuneteller who still relies too much on her crystal ball named "perlas na bilog,". She divines the future by chanting "Bolang bilog, huwag patulog-tulog; sabihin ang sagot" and "ba-be-bi-bo-bu", teaching vowels in the process; Sitsiritsit and Alibangbang, two inquisitive space aliens who take delight in discovering things, places and people around them. Inspired from the nursery rhyme "Sitsiritsit, Alibangbang"; Ningning and Gingging*, the sisters. Ningning is the eldest girl, the serious type, while Gingging is younger and the playful one between the two siblings; and Kapitan Basa*, a superhero that loves to read. He solves language-related problems caused by his arch-nemesis, Patlang-Palit.

Batibot Opening Theme
Batibot Show Intro



Batibot Theme Song Lyrics

Pagmulat ng mata,
Langit nakatawa
Sa batibot,
Sa batibot
Tayo nang magpunta
Tuklasin sa batibot
Ang tuwa, ang saya

Doon sa batibot
Tayo na, tayo na
Mga bata sa batibot
Maliksi, masigla. (2x)

Dali, sundan natin
Ang ngiti ng araw
Doon sa batibot (2x)

Tayo nang magpunta
Tuklasin sa batibot
Ang tuwa, ang saya

Doon sa batibot
Tayo na, tayo na
Mga bata sa batibot
Maliksi, masigla. (2x)

I am one of those Batang Batibot Kids who usually takes a break from the usual censored violence of US animated shows and Japanese anime(s). Everyday was Batibot Day with Kuya Bodgie reading us stories with matching illustrations, the angelic voice of Ate Isay, the gruff voice of Kiko, and the playful Pong. 90s kids connected and related to Batibot because that is one of the only educational shows presented in Filipino which make it stand out from Sesame Street and the countless of animations which are usually dubbed in English. Well, this is probably just me growing up fascinated with puppets but back then they were really a good source of rich colorful information and imagination. Well we now have the internet for that. For people who grew up with Batibot, they will forever be in our hearts and minds. How about a home video compilations to give our kids a chance?

How about you guys, were you a Batang Batibot? Any favorite muppet, mascot, human character, segment, music, story or mercandise you want to share? Let us here your thoughts about Batibot in the comments section below:

Oki Doki Doc | An ABS-CBN 90s Sitcom Retrospective

Oki Doki Doc was a Filipino sitcom from ABS-CBN starring Aga Muhlach as Dr. Agaton Villaluz or simply Doc Aga, Agot Isidro as Alex, Babalu as Don Robert Makunatan or Mang Berto, Carmina Villaroel as George, Claudine Barretto as Toni, Jimmy Santos as Godo, Camille Prats as Camille, Alfons Martinez as Fonzie, and Paolo Contis as Paoli. Oki Doki Doc aired every Saturday nights and ran from 1993 to 2000.

Oki Doki Doc - The Show
About Oki Doki Doc

Oki Doki Doc revolves around the adventures and misadventures in the life of Dr. Agaton Villaluz or simply Doc Aga, a young veterinarian who has inherited his brother's children. Aga was leading a normal single life and was quite enjoying his bachelorhood when his brother-in-law lost his job. Because of this unfortunate situation, his brother-in-law is forced to take on a job abroad which required him to bring his wife along with him leaving their children behind. Being the only relative who has a respectable status, Aga is entrusted with the responsibility of taking care of his sister's two children, Camille (Camille Prats) and Fonzie (Alfonso Martinez) which cuts short his life as a bachelor and catapults him into the status of being a parent/guardian to his niece and nephew.

Dr. Aga opened his animal clinic in a middle-class subdivision with plans of having a successful career as a veterinarian. He lives with his best friend and college classmate who he also treat as family, Godo in the duplex that is in a compound owned by Don Berto Makunatan a.k.a. Babsy (Babalu). His duplex unit doubles up as his vet office while the other unit is used by Babsy and his three children, Paolo, Alex (Agot Isidro) and Toni (Claudine Barretto). Mang Berto has an inherent hatred over Godo and dislikes Aga for his daughter Alex. Mang Berto can't stop the two from falling in love and eventually (in the series run) got married. As call of endearment Alex calls Aga "sugar", while Aga calls Alex "cupcake".

Oki Doki Doc Opening Theme
Oki Doki Doc Show Intro Lyrics

Ang Tito Aga kong beterinaryo,
laging kapiling mga pusa’t aso
kung minsan ay loro
kung minsan ay kuwago
Meron ding baka, manok, at kabayo… Ang tito ko!

Oki Doc, Oki Doc
Oki Doki Doki Doc
Oki Doc, Oki Doc, Oki Doc

Ang Tito Aga kong beterinaryo,
napakagwapo nakakaloko-loko
Kay dami daming chicks na nagkakagusto
pati na yata mga pusa't aso ng tito ko

Oki Doc, Oki Doc
Oki Doki Doki Doc
Oki Doc, Oki Doc, Oki Doc
Sweet Moments of Doc Aga (Aga Muhlach) and Alex (Agot Isidro) in ABS-CBN's Oki Doki Doc

ABS-CBN got tons of great situational comedy under its management during the 90s. While Home Along Da Riles focuses more on the family man Kevin Cosme, Oki Doki Doc is not far behind but instead of a dedicated father, we now have a dedicated uncle and bachelor. The introduction of love story between Aga and Alex in the show added more charm and humor to the series. ABS CBN's Oki Doki Doc was one of those popular 90s ABS CBN situational comedy that I grew up watching. It spun one comedy film with the same title in 1996. The ABS CBN sitcom's 1993 to December 2000 has followed the love story of Aga and Alex; and has seen a lot of changes from both its cast, schedule, and humor.


The most notable characters to me was the late-Babalu as the overprotective father and Roderick Paulate's gay (stereotype) portrayal in the series length. As a child growing up in the 90s I liked how Oki Doki Doc had these various brief animations that served as interlude featuring animals (since Doc Aga is a vet) cutting to the commercials, and from commercials back to the show.

How about you guys? What's your fondest memory of the charming veterinarian and his sweet flight attendant of a love interest? Any favorite character, episode, or guest from the show? Share your thoughts about Oki Doki Doc in the comments section below:

Bitoy's World | A GMA Network 90s Educational Show Retrospective

Bitoy's World was a Filipino educational comedy show hosted by Michael V. playing as Etoy, Betong and Bebang featuring clips from Ripley's Believe It or Not. The show replaced Bitoy's Adventures in Bilibkaba? in 1997-1998 which also replaced Bilibitornot (1996-1998) which are all hosted by Michael V. using clips from the documentary television series Ripley's Believe It or Not. Bitoy's World aired every Sunday night from 1998 to 2001 in GMA Network. Let's go down memory lane and remember what this GMA Network infotainment program was like.

Bitoy's World - The Show
About Bitoy's World

GMA Network's Bitoy's World is just a variation of Bitoy's Adventures in Bilibkaba? and Bilibitornot with one change in particular, its hosts. Besides the weird and informative clips from Ripley's Believe It or Not, it also focused on the weird relationship of its hosts, the sibling Betong and Bebang, with their bullied neighbor ("friend"), Etoy.


Michael V. plays all three parts in a green screen to give the effect that the three characters are all together in one screen, interacting. The show usually feature Bebabng or Betong bullying Etoy reminiscent of Looney Toons cartoons' Wile E. Coyote and Road Runner.

Bitoy's World - Opening Theme Lyrics
Bitoy's World Intro Lyrics

Ahoy! Ahoy!
Meron akong balita
Meron kaming show at kaming dalawa ang bida
Para sa bagets
at para sa gurang
Si Betong, Si Etoy
at ako si Bebang

Beh Baby,
Beh beh beh beh Baby
Beh Baby,
Beh beh beh beh Baby

Si Betong, Si Etoy
at ako si Bebang.

Making this post is really challenging especially as I had a hard time finding clips or even photos of Bitoy's World. Luckily I found this pic of the three host of Bitoy's World together with Director Uro dela Cruz in Flickr. This made me realize the importance and why I made Retro Pilipinas blog. It is to scour the internet for any materials of the show that I grew up with. Well, it is much easier for me to archive some of the international shows shown in our country because some of these shows have either dedicated sites created by fans or enough materials have written about them. So when I was looking for Bitoy's World, I usually ended up with nothing. But the memories of the Bitoy's World are still here. The show was so fascinating back when I was still in high school which made me decide to make three characters out of my main character in my notebook log. The show was that hilarious and influential to me back then. Too bad I didn't have any more materials to share it with you guys. So if ever you have one, you can share it here.

How about you guys, what's your fondest memory of Bitoy's World? Any particular memorable story, memorabilia, moments, or characters of the show that you want to share? Share them along with your thoughts about Bitoy's World in the comments section below:

Hiraya Manawari | An ABS-CBN 90s Educational Show for Children Retrospective

Hiraya Manawari was a popular educational television show for Filipino children from ABS-CBN Foundation Inc. in cooperation with the Department of Education Culture and Sports (DECS) back in the 90s. Hiraya Manawari aired during the 90s alongside Bayani from on Philippine television network, ABS-CBN. Hiraya Manawari is a weekly episodic educational television show aimed for Filipino kids that featured moral values with a usual fantasy setting.

Hiraya Manawari Educational Philippine Television Show - The Show
About Hiraya Manawari

ABS-CBN's Hiraya Manawari, a highfalutin Filipino word that translates to “reach your dreams” featured episodes revolving around good moral values and life lessons. Each episode is different from the other with each episode that deals with issues about love, family, respect, honesty, discipline, etc. Most of its episodes is set on a fantasy and fictitious setting which aid in emphasizing the episode's lesson of the day. If Bayani was a Sibika at Kulture, History or Social Studies in Philippine television, Hiraya Manawari on the other hand is like a Good Moral and Right Conduct, or Values Education class for Philippine television.

Hiraya Manawari Opening Theme
Hiraya Manawari Series Intro



Hiraya Manawari
Theme Song Lyrics

Gusto kong abutin ang tayog ng ulap
Gusto kong sisirin ang lalim ng dagat
Gusto kong akyatin ang tuktok ng bundok
Tuklasin ang hiwaga, sa puso ko'y bumabalot

Hiraya Manawari, Hiraya Manawari
Mga pangarap natin ating abutin
Ang kapangyarihang nasa puso natin
Hiraya manawari ating abutin

Kaya kong pakawalan ang hiwaga sa aking puso
Kaya kong hawakan init ng aking pangarap
Kaya kong isabog liwanag na aking taglay
Liwanag na nagsisilbing tanglaw ko sa patutunguhan

Hiraya Manawari, Hiraya Manawari
Mga pangarap natin, ating abutin
Sa lakas ng isipan at busilak na kalooban
Hiraya manawari ating abutin

I grew up in the 90s and this is one of the most memorable educational television series that ABS-CBN has ever come up with. It teaches and preaches about values education presented in a fairy tale like manner with episodes in a mysterious, magical, mystical, and sometimes creepy settings.

There is one particular scene in an episode of Hiraya Manawari that has seemingly engraved itself in my memory. It was an episode that featured insects, mainly butterflies. That particular episode had a scene where butterflies are just flying around a garden full of flora that prompted a musical segment with lyrics like "tsuwari wariwap... maglaro maglaro." I vividly recall what happened to that episode but I believed that it was due to its weird and upbeat tune that made it so nostalgic. There were also some really serious and disturbing scenes from some episodes of Hiraya Manawari. Maybe it was ahead of its time or it was so effective that it was too much for some children (like me) to handle. I remember having a few nightmares with some of its creepier episode. But all in all nobody can deny that it was one of the best educational shows under joint effort by ABS-CBN Foundation Inc. and the Department of Education Culture and Sports.





How about you guys? What is/are your most memorable episode, story, or character you remembered from this ABS-CBN educational show? Share your thoughts about Hiraya Manawari in the comments section below:

Ispup | ABC-5 90s Philippine Television Comedy (Gag) Show

Ispup (translates to "Spoof") was a Filipino television comedy show that aired in Associated Broadcasting Company (ABC-5, now known as TV5) during the late 90s up to the early 2000's. From the title itself, Ispup spoofs and make parodies of several Philippine television shows, political figures, celebrities, and advertisements. Ispup originally aired on Saturdays later moved to Fridays. The ABC-5 gag sow ran from March 20, 1999 to March 27, 2004 replacing Tropang Trumpo.

Ispup - The Show
About Ispup

Ispup featured two of Philippine's well-known parodist and impersonators, Willie Nepomuceno and Jon Santos; adding to the cast are Leo Martinez, Mystica, Candy Pangilinan, Marissa Sanchez, Joy Viado, Selena Sanchez, Ruffa Mae Quinto, and the Ispupniks: Mike "Pekto" Nacua, Ate Guy, Ate Shawie, Hyubz Azarcon and Cynthia Marquez.

Although not being the pioneer when it comes to doing parodies in the Philippines, Ispup managed to pull some pretty interesting concepts providing some great laughs with its fresh approach to delivering humor, mainly through parodies. Ispup introduced a new breed of smart humor by solely focusing on the popularity and sometimes notoriety of celebrities, television shows, and political figures - spoofing and satirizing their already public lives.

Some of its more popular parodies included the following:

• Balitang Ka! - a parody of ABS-CBN's "Balitang K"
• The Cheapest Link - a parody of the Philippine version of the UK game show "The Weakest Link" (IBC-13), having Caloy Alde as Edu Mansanas and actors playing political figures as contestants.
• Di Bati Sina Mards At Pards - a parody of GMA's debate show "Debate with Mare at Pare"
• Gay KNB? - a parody of ABS-CBN game show "Game KNB?" hosted by Ms. Kris Pepino (played by Candy Pangilinan)
• Intrigador - a parody of GMA's "Imbestigador"
• Knowless Power - a parody of the ABS-CBN's "Knowledge Power"
• Malala Na Kaya- a spoof of ABS-CBN's drama anthology "Maalaala Mo Kaya" hosted by Charing Todos Los Santos Conscious na Conscious (played by Jon Santos)
• No One Can Be A Millionaire? - a parody of the Philippine version of the UK game show "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?" (IBC-13), having Leo Martinez as Royet de Leon and actors playing political figures as contestants.
• Oka-Toka-Doc - a cross-over parody of ABS-CBN's "Oka Tokat" and "Oki Doki Doc"
• The Priest is Right - a parody of the Philippine version of the US game show "The Price is Right", having Willie Nepomuceno as His Eminems Jaime Cardinal Sins and actors playing political figures as contestants.
• Taksil - a parody of GMA's "Saksi"
• Usapang Monkey Business - a parody of ABS-CBN's "Usapang Business"
• Wrong Page: Ulat ni Mel Tiongke - a parody of the GMA's "Frontpage: Ulat ni Mel Tiangco"

Ispup featured characters like Sherap Entrada, Eminems Jaime Cardinal Sins, Royet de Leon, Charing Todos Los Santos Conscious na Conscious, Kurita Chances, Meriam Defensive-Santiago, Ramon Revillame, Mel Tiongke, Mayor Vi, Kris Pepino, Tita Cory Pepino, Cong. Manhik-Manaog, and Cong. Manhik-Manaog.

Before and after each episode, a "disclaimer" was presented ala "Star Wars" opening credits stating that the spoofs were taken from television shows, commercials, and movies with permission, ending with the show's tagline "Walang pikunan, ispup onli." ("Don't get offended. It's only a spoof.").

Ispup Opening Theme
Ispup Show Intro

"Soul Bossa Nova" by Quincey Jones



Mystica as Rosebud in "No One Can Be a Millionnaire"

All great things must eventually come to an end. It was quite disheartening to see Tropang Trumpo end, but Ispup filled up that gap with a new brand of humor. This was the gag show that introduced me to the master impersonators and stand up comedians Willie Nepomuceno and Jon Santos. I grew eventually fund of Ispup's unique brand of humor although being as a child back then really didn't get some of their jokes, it was still fun to see comedians impersonate local pop culture and political icons that time. If there is one thing that Ispup has successfully accomplished is the effective use of parody and spoof as its medium of humor which is now seen in today's Philippine gag shows.



It is quite fascinating actually that after Ispup, the impersonations lives on. Up to this day (as I made this post) I still see most impersonations by Jon Santos and Willie Nep cracking people up in various television appearance and stand up performance.

Jon Santos as Senator Miriam Defensive-Santiago at the MYX Music Awards 2012



Willie Nepumoceno as "Sherap" - Wowowee's Funniest Episode



How about you guys? What is your most memorable and funniest impersonation in Ispup? Share your thoughts about ABC-5's Ispup on the comments section below:

That's Entertainment | GMA 80s Filipino Teenage Variety Show

That's Entertainment or simply known as "That's" was a Filipino youth-oriented talent and variety show that aired in GMA Network from January 6, 1986 – March 23, 1996. That's was hosted by German Moreno together with Ike Lozada. Let's go down memory lane with That's Entertainment here at Retro Pilipinas.

That's Entertainment - The Show
About That's Entertainment

That's Entertainment launched on January 6, 1986 by GMA Network and first aired from the old GMA building in EDSA, but later moved to the GMA Broadway Centrum in 1987 to accommodate it's increasing studio audience and fans. The Filipino youth variety show used song "That's Entertainment" as its main theme song. That's Entertainment was written by Arthur Schwartz with the lyrics of Howard Dietz which was written especially for the 1953 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer musical film The Band Wagon. Hosted by German Moreno together with Ike Lozada, That's gained popularity almost overnight among young Filipino audiences.




That's Entertainment ushered in new stars whom most have become the Philippine industry's finest. The youth-oriented variety show grouped their talents into five: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday groups. Every Saturday, all of the said five groups were joined together to performed various production numbers. The show paired up various talents to serve as love teams that usually illicit feelings of "kilig" to most of the show's female audiences. The pairing eventually transcended the show and some eventually hooked up in real life. The show was a star maker, those who were exceptional and offered something fresh became the industry's finest celebrity idols. Nobody can be young forever. That's members eventually moved on with their lives. Some got their much needed industry break making them the industry's popular actors, comedian/comedienne, actors, singers, dancers, and performers. Some decided to pursue a much fulfilling and private lives completely vanishing from the radar of the ever scrutinizing eye of the public. The show also catapulted different dance group to popularity, The Maneouvres, Streetboys, Abztract Dancers, Kids at Work, UMD all became the Philippines' premiere dance group because of the show. German "Kuya Germs" Moreno was recognized as the Philippine's star maker because of the said show.

That's went off the air at the height of its popularity back in March 23, 1986. The last episode of "That's Entertainment" was shown on Saturday primetime (9:00 pm) with former members reunited in a TV special entitled "That's The Reunion".

A Fan Tribute Video to That's Entertainment:

I wasn't really that into That's Entertainment that time. I was but a kid back then and had really no interest in an afternoon variety show. But I have to give credit to the show for discovering and launching the career of their talents who most have become the popular celebrities, politicians and professionals in the Philippines and even abroad. I was really not a That's kid, but it will forever have a special place in the hearts of those who supported the show.

What about you guys? Were you a fan of That's Entertainment? If you were, then what's your fondest memory, favorite love teams, favorite talent and general thoughts on the iconic star maker of a variety show from GMA Network back in its 80s-90s run? Share your thoughts on That's Entertainment on the comments section below:

Tropang Trumpo | ABC - 90s Philippine Television Comedy (Gag) Show

Tropang Trumpo was a popular Filipino television comedy gag show that aired on the Associated Broadcast Company or ABC 5 (Now TV5) every Saturday nights and ran from 1994-1999. Tropang Trumpo was the definitive gag show of the mid-90s which made Ogie Alcasid, Gelli de Belen, Carmina Villaroel, Earl Ignacio, and Michael V. became household names. Let's go down memory lane and reminisce the iconic 90s gag show, Tropang Trumpo.

Tropang Trumpo - The Show
About Tropang Trumpo

Tropang Trumpo's original cast included Ogie Alcasid, Michael V., Gelli de Belen, and theatre/voice actors Noni Buencamino, Earl Ignacio and Sheilou Bharwani under the direction of Jose Javier Reyes. However, when Reyes became busy with films, former Goin' Bananas cast members Edgar "Bobot" Mortiz, Al Tantay and former Goin' Bananas headwriter Dan Salamante came in and assumed the respective posts of director and writers. Mortiz, Tantay and Salamante introduced new segments for the show, the most famous was "Battle of the Brainless", a satirical quiz show (taken from the 90s famous game show "Battle of the Brains" aired over RPN) where simple quiz questions are never answered. Besides Battle of the Brainless, the ABC-5 gag show also became known for its in-between jokes short humorous dance number using a nail product tv ad jingle "Caronia" by the main cast usually ending with another word that the show made trend of during the 90s, "chicken"; and a parody of the popular Filipino soap Valiente with "Bahaw: Ang Kaning Lamig".

The show eventually went on even when two of its main cast, Michael V. and Ogie Alcasid, left in 1995 to do another gag show for GMA entitled "Bubble Gang". The new cast included Gelli de Belen, Carmina Villaroel, Smokey Manaloto, Earl Ignacio, Maoi Roca, Caloy Alde, Mickey Ferriols, Ariel "Hyubs" Azarcon, Diego "Binoy" Salvador.

"Tropang Trumpo" started to decline when several new shows started copying its format. In 1998, the show had to reformat after Edgar Mortiz, Al Tantay and Dan Salamante left due to conflict with ABC executives. At the same time, cast members Smokey Manaloto and Earl Ignacio also left to side with their beleaguered director. In mid-1998, original "Tropa" cast members Gelli de Belen and later addition, Carmina Villaroel left, and the show struggled to survive with its relatively new cast and staff. It finally closed at the end of the 1999 and was replaced with "Ispup".

On 2003, Bubble Gang paid tribute to some of the most popular gag shows in the Philippines, one of which is Tropang Trumpo. Old footage for Tropang Trumpo is rare these days, so if you want a somewhat accurate idea of what the show like back in the days, then check out the Bubble Gang's tribute here:

Bubble Gang Pays Tribute to Tropang Trumpo



It was really a big fan service to see Carmina, Gelli, Ogie and Michael V. doing the Caronia "Chicken" Dance on Bubble Gang.

As a child growing up on the 90s, Tropang Trumpo was the authority when it comes to comedy back then. Michael V. and Ogie Alcasid's departure from Tropang Trumpo gave the biggest crippling blow to the iconic 90s gag show. It was never the same after the two comedians left for Bubble Gang. Although I have to give credit for Tropa for staying more than three years after the maid comedic celebrities left the series. I still remember how the Battle of the Brainless segment would always cracked me up as a kid. There there was the Caronia/Chicken Dance that Tropa popularize. I still remember I some of my elementary classmates who were also into Tropang Trumpo usually do some of the steps and use the term "chicken" as much as we could back then. This is probably where I got my humor or "corniness" from. I think if I re-watch it now (if there would still be some old footage or copies out there), I might get a few chuckles every now and then but my sense of humor has also grown up through the years, so I guess I'll be scratching my head now. I might not have the same reaction like before when Carmina usually force her pustiso jokes on their "Ano ang tawag" segment. Tropang Trumpo will always be a big part of my life, and maybe every kid who just wanted one day of the week to just laugh out loud.

What about you guys? What's your fondest memory, favorite segment, favorite cast and general thoughts on the iconic 90s gag show from ABC-5. Share your thoughts on Tropang Trumpo on the comments section below:

Okey Ka, Fairy Ko! | An IBC 80s, ABS-CBN 80s - 90s, GMA Network 90s Filipino Sitcom Retrospective

Okey Ka, Fairy Ko! was a popular Filipino television situational comedy (sitcom) that first premiered on the Intercontinental Broadcasting Company or IBC 13 and ran from 1987-1989, transferred and continued its run on ABS-CBN from 1989-1985, and finally getting cancelled after two years of its GMA Network run when the show transferred there. The show focuses on the Kabisote family mainly Enteng and Faye as they struggle with everyday normal life and the magical life of Faye being the Princess of the land of faeries, Engkantasya. Let's go down memory lane and reminisce this phenomenal Philippine retro sitcom about family, magic, and the never-ending fight of good versus evil.

Okey Ka, Fairy Ko! - The Story
Okey Ka, Fairy Ko! Synopsis

Vicente Kabisote, Jr a.k.a Enteng Kabisote (played by Vic Sotto) was trying to outrun a woman who is forcing him to marry her through the threats of her muscled brothers. To escape this persistent woman, Enteng adopted a street-child named Aiza (Aiza Seguerra) and pretended that he already has a daughter from a previous marriage, but even so, the obsessed woman still pursued Enteng. Unknown to the Enteng, he is being watched from a by the magical kingdom Engkantasya's fairy Princess Chloroteam who will later be known as Faye (Alice Dixson). She immediately fell in love with the nimble mortal and magically transported him to Engkantasya while he sleeps. Like Faye falling for him, the same happened to Enteng after seeing Faye. They later returned to the mortal world to get married with Aiza as the loving couple's witness. As much as the queen of Enkantasya's Ina Magenta (Charito Solis) disapproves of Chloroteam (her heir to the throne of Engkantasya) marrying a nimble mortal, she knows that he is a man who truly loves her daughter and her daughter loves him as much. She usually meddles with the affairs of the couple now trying to live as magic-free as possible but it can not do so as forces of evil from Engkantasya tries to overthrow Magenta by hurting her one and only daughter, Faye and her family.

Each episode features the everyday struggles of Enteng, Aiza and Faye as they deal with everyday family issues and from the evil of Luka, and reyna ng kadiliman (Luz Valdez). To add up to the magical world of Okay Ka, Fairy Ko! are some few supportng characters. Amy (Ruby Rodriguez), the nosy yet trustworthy housekeeper of the Kabisotes who usually gets her memories constantly erased by the show's fairies (mainly Faye and Magenta) everytime she discovers the magical nature of the people she work for. Bale (Jinky Oda), the store-owner just adjacent to the Kabisote's house is a friend of Amy who she usually share a lot of gossips with. Pipoy (Larry Silva) is Enteng's bald and beer-bellied assistant in his repair shop. Prinsipe ng Kahilingan or Prinsipe K (Bayani Casimiro Jr.) is a tap dancing and blunder of a wish-granting fairy known on the series for his outrageous tap dancing entrances whenever he is called.

Okay Ka, Fairy Ko's main theme song is "Fireworks" by Alan Menken from Walt Disney's film adaptation of The Little Mermaid. It is hard to come by any online of videos of the the original epsiodes or even the theme of Okay Ka, Fairy Ko! so here is "Fireworks" by Alan Menken and just imaging the show opening with it.

Okey Ka, Fairy Ko! 80s - 90s Sitcom Television Theme
Okey Ka, Fairy Ko! Theme from Alan Menken's "Fireworks" (The Little Mermaid)







Okay Ka, Fairy Ko! Classic Movie Posters from Video48.
Check them out for a more in-depth look on classic Filipino films.

I liked the show back in the 90s and this is probably why up to today I am still able to enjoy the absurdity of this era's Enteng Kabisote film series. I literally grew up watching this series and fell in love with a sitcom that focused on family, love, and a fantasy world of fairies, witches and magic. To someone who never knew other foreign shows back then like the classic Bewitch US series, which I think might probably be the show where this Filipino sitcom draws its inspiration from, Okay Ka, Fairy Ko! was a good sitcom for a growing up 90s boy. The Faye that I am familiar with is the Tweetie de Leon and the Roderick Paulate version. Fans of the series knew that the series was known for changing its female lead and the show made up this lore that fairies usually undergoes this "makeover" which doesn't always bear good results. This has later been carried out in the Enteng Kabisote film series. Okay Ka, Fairy ko! has two movies back in the 90s and like today, both are heavily marketed on the longest running noontime show Eat Bulaga. My most memorable Okay Ka, Fairy Ko - Eat Bulaga contest was probably with the movie where Pipoy was eventually turned into a human-turtle as a means of transportation. They used some pretty clever use of the Pipoy "animatronics" head as it is attached to the life-size turtle's fake body. Okay Ka, Fairy Ko! will forever be remembered as one of the best Filipino sitcoms of all time.

What about you guys? What are your fondest memory of Okay Ka, Fairy Ko! ? How about the two movies it spun back in the 90s? Any favorite episode and characters? Share your thoughts in the comments section below:

Bayani | An ABS-CBN 90s Educational Show Retrospective

Bayani was a popular educational television show for Filipino children from ABS-CBN Foundation Inc. in cooperation with the Department of Education Culture and Sports (DECS) back in the 90s. Bayani aired from 1995-2001 on Philippine television network, ABS-CBN. Bayani, as the title state is a weekly edutainment kids show that follows the adventure of two children as they magically travel back in time to retrieve historical items from the collection of a from a mysterious old person living in a cave.

Bayani ABS-CBN Foundation's Educational Television Show - The Story
Bayani Plot

ABS-CBN's Bayani follows two elementary school students Noli (played by child actor Angelo Cometa) and Aya (Celine Lirio) as they accidentally stumbled on a mysterious cave to evade a group of school bullies after them. They saw a mysterious light which lead to a similarly mysterious old man played by Rolando Santos Tinio who tells them that he is the guardian of the mysterious cave which holds the memories of Philippine history and the spirit of the country.

The old man tells them that they were destined to discover the cave and are chosen ones of pure heart to access the Aklat ng Kasaysayan (Book of History). The old man asks them for their consent to go on this magical adventure through time to retrieve various lost and stolen historical items from different time periods. Bayani's pilot episodeis entitled "Abaniko" (fan) which follows the adventure of Noli and Aya back in Andres Bonifacio's timeline to retrieve the first fan the the national hero created he created. On later episodes, Rolando Santos Tinio was replaced by various actress and later with Caridad Sanchez as "Lola" (grandmother) in Bayani. Lola also guided the children and gave them missions on what items to retrieve back in various points in Philippine history.

Bayani ABS-CBN Foundation's Educational Television Show Opening Theme
ABS-CBN's Bayani Intro

Praise ABS-CBN Foundation Inc. for creating an entertaining educational television show Bayani for Filipino children back in the 90s in Philippine television network, ABS-CBN. As a student, the show did what it is suppose to, and in flying colors... to teach history to kids in a fun and effective way. I personally learned new things about the lives of some of our national heroes which sometimes were not taught in school. The show also introduced more national historical heroes besides what we (students) knew that time. Having quality television shows like this, I can say that I am happy and proud to grow up in the 90s.

What about you guys? What do you think about ABS-CBN's Bayani? What are your most unforgettable and memorable episode in the educational show? Share your thoughts about Bayani on the comments section below: