IBC-13 remakes the classic ABS-CBN soap opera

February 26, 2014

After remaking its own hit shows like Mula sa Puso and Mara Clara, Lopez-led ABS-CBN Corp. has decided to come up with an updated version of a classic soap opera first produced by rival GMA Network, Inc.

After producing and launching their first ever fantaseryes like Janella in Wonderland and Tasya Fantasya, Avellana-led sequestered broadcaster Intercontinental Broadcasting Corp. (IBC-13) has been coming up with an updated version of a classic soap opera produced by rival ABS-CBN Corp.

'The cast of the new Anna Luna''. (Maricar Reyes, Matt Evans, Abby Bautista, Jeric Raval)'''

Based on the 1990s hit series of the same name, Anna Luna is set to air on IBC-13 starting March 3 at 2:30 p.m.

Annaliza revolves around a girl who separated from her mother after an accident at sea, Annaluna is forced to live in the city with her estranged grandmother. Anna Luna is unwanted in the Dominguez mansion. To the old woman, she is a constant reminder of her daughter's disobedience by marrying a poor man. To a greedy aunt and an irksome cousin, she is a threat to the inheritance.

Anna Luna was ABS-CBN’s first soap opera and featured child star Margarita Fuentes in the title role. It premiered in November 27, 1989 on ABS-CBN before moving to RPN-9 on October 3, 1994, and ended with an incomplete story in September 29, 1995.

The updated version featuring 11-year-old Abby Bautista reprising the role that made Ms. Fuentes a household name.

IBC business unit Head Ginny Monteagudo-Ocampo said the network got the rights to remake Anna Luna from its original creator, Zenaida O. Soriano.

“We promise to stay true to the original concept that made Anna Luna very popular before,” Ms. Ocampo told reporters at a press conference last week.

Joining the cast are Matt Evans, Maricar Reyes, Jeric Raval, Tricia Santos and Albie Casiño.

Mr. Evans played as TJ, Anna Luna’s foster father, who is giving for his mother Emily, played by Ms. Reyes (Melissa Mendez in the original series). Mr. Raval plays the congressman Arnulfo, Emily's father has who has Anna Luna portrayal (the late Ricky Belmonte played the role in the original version).

Ms. Santos plays the character Claire, a teenage sister in her grade school adpot for Anna Luna. Charmi Benavidez originally played the role. Mr. Casiño played the character Albert Corpuz,a suitor brother and Claire's love interest.

Anna Luna will take over the time slot of Kapinoy Cinema, which will ended this Friday,

Anna Luna will air weekdays 2:30 p.m. after the noontime show APO Tanghali Na! on IBC-13.