For first-time actors JM Ibarra and Fyang Smith, stepping into their roles in the iWant Originals series Ghosting felt like stepping into another world—literally and emotionally.

Fresh off their Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11 stint, the two now find themselves as the lead pair in a romantic supernatural series that blurs the lines between life, death, and love. But for JM and Fyang, the real challenge wasn’t just acting as a restless spirit or a heartbroken girl trying to heal—it was watching themselves not as JM and Fyang, but as Wilberto and Jaja.

“It’s different when you're just being yourself on reality TV,” JM shared with a nervous laugh during a behind-the-scenes interview. “But when I watched myself in the series for the first time, ang dami kong napansin. Am I moving my hands too much? Am I saying this right? Nakakahiya.”

Fyang echoed the feeling. “There were moments I had to look away from the screen! Sobrang conscious ako. Pero at the same time, I was proud. We did it. We really acted.”

This raw honesty adds another layer of charm to Ghosting, a series that doesn't just tell a story about moving on from love and life—it’s also about stepping into the unknown, much like JM and Fyang are doing with their acting careers.

More Than Just One Kind of Ghosting

The series takes its name from two meanings of the word "ghosting"—the popular millennial term for being suddenly ignored or left without closure, and the literal sense of encountering ghosts.

In the story, Fyang’s character, Jaja, escapes to her lola’s quiet provincial home after being ghosted by a guy she cared about. But instead of finding peace, she meets Wilberto (played by JM), a charming—but very much dead—local. What follows is a strange, slow-burn romance between the living and the spirit world.

But if you ask the cast, some scenes hit a little too close to reality.

A Fresh Start in a New Light

While the supernatural elements hook the audience in, it's the emotional honesty that grounds Ghosting. Directed by romcom veteran Ted Boborol (Vince & Kath & James, Finally Found Someone), the series delicately weaves grief, love, and letting go into eight binge-worthy episodes.

And at the center of it all are JM and Fyang, navigating unfamiliar territory both as actors and as onscreen lovers—awkward, uncertain, and completely relatable.

They may be haunted by nerves now, but their chemistry is anything but lifeless.

Catch the Premiere

Ghosting streams exclusively on the newly revamped iWant starting Saturday, July 19 at 8PM (PHT). Catch JM and Fyang's hauntingly awkward but heartfelt acting debut—and maybe discover that ghost stories, like love, aren’t always what they seem.

Unlock iWant Originals for just ₱35 per month. Stream the feels, the frights, and the firsts—only on iWant.

More Than a Remake: A Cultural Rebirth

Director Mae Cruz-Alviar and the creative team behind the show didn’t simply copy the Korean original, they transformed it. The story’s core remained: a guarded caregiver named Patpat (played by Joshua Garcia), his brother Matmat (Carlo Aquino), who lives with autism, and a successful yet emotionally scarred children’s book author Mia (Anne Curtis). Together, they wrestle with the ghosts of their past, uncovering old wounds and learning how to heal.

But this version unfolds with a uniquely Pinoy flavor. From the characters’ personalities to the backdrop of familiar landscapes, every detail was chosen to reflect how Filipinos experience pain, connection, and healing.

Instead of cherry blossoms and Korean winters, we see lush local scenery and sunlit countrysides. Filipino homes replace glass-walled hospitals. And yes, even the language shifts the tone. Where the Korean version may have leaned into restraint, the Filipino version isn’t afraid to show vulnerability, the kind that comes out during family dinners, late-night confessions, or quiet moments of prayer.

Scenes Rewritten for the Filipino Heart

Some of the Korean drama’s iconic scenes were respectfully adapted, or entirely reimagined, to match the Philippine setting and emotional rhythm. Supporting characters were restructured to reflect Filipino family dynamics, while scenes around mental health were softened and localized to better match the nation’s current awareness and openness.

“Kailangan namin i-handle na ‘wag biglaan ‘yung audience, na ‘wag sila ma-overwhelm,” said Director Cruz-Alviar. “So there is careful handling in telling the story but also staying true to the core of the show.”

Mental health isn’t an easy topic in any culture, but in the Philippines, where stigma and silence still surround conditions like depression and autism, telling this story required deep sensitivity and care. The production team partnered with advocates, therapists, and even visited special schools to portray the characters truthfully and respectfully.

A Personal Story for the Actors, Too

For Joshua Garcia, the role of Patpat hit close to home. “Nakaka-relate ako sa kanya kasi parehas kaming mapagmahal na kapatid at nangungulila sa nanay,” he shared. “Pati ‘yung pagka-burned out ng character ko, naramdaman ko rin.”

Meanwhile, Carlo Aquino underwent immersion sessions and intensive workshops to authentically portray Matmat, a person on the autism spectrum. The result? A performance that’s grounded, moving, and rooted in real-life experiences.

Anne Curtis, returning to teleseryes after years, gives life to Mia Hernandez, a role she describes as complex but ultimately healing. “It’s a healing story and it’s a beautiful journey of love,” Anne said. “Every Filipino… will be able to relate to the story of healing, pain, and love.”

An Advocacy, Not Just a Show

Beyond being a primetime teleserye, It’s Okay to Not Be Okay serves a bigger purpose. It’s an advocacy to understand and destigmatize depression, trauma, and the struggles of individuals with special needs.

At a time when many still whisper about mental health, this show speaks boldly, yet gently. It reminds viewers that it’s okay to feel broken. It’s okay to seek help. And it’s okay to not be okay.

And in true Filipino fashion, the story doesn’t end in sorrow, it ends in connection, healing, and hope.

After a five-year hiatus from teleseryes, Judy Ann is back in full force, taking on the role of a president in the action-packed "The Bagman." Alongside co-stars John Arcilla and Arjo Atayde, she dives into the eight-part drama, currently in production. The excitement is palpable as Judy Ann returns to the small screen, showcasing her remarkable talent and versatility. Recently, the “Bagman” team surprised her on set with a heartfelt mini birthday celebration, showcasing the camaraderie and warmth within the production.

Every day, fans eagerly discuss their own theories about the storyline, especially when it comes to Bingo (played by Donny Pangilinan) and Caroline (portrayed by Belle Mariano). They can't get enough of the charming chemistry between Snoop (Anthony Jennings) and Irene (Maris Racal). Plus, they're thrilled to see the romance blossoming between Caroline and Bingo.

“Fractured” is a mystery-thriller series that also stars Kaori Oinuma, Jeremiah Lisbo, Daniela Stranner, Raven Rigor, and Sean Tristan. It will stream for free beginning September 15 (Friday) on the iWantTFC app or website and on iWantTFC’s YouTube channel, with new episodes dropping every Friday at 8 PM.

The story revolves around a group of teenage influencers who are all invited to the paradise-esque remote island resort, Bella Vista. Despite their clashing personalities and hidden agendas, these clout-chasers’ desire to gain more online fame heightens as they compete in creating the best content that will go viral on social media.

Their dream vacation instantly turns into a dark tragedy as chaos ensues when they become the target of an unknown killer. Life-changing mysteries will slowly start to unravel, leaving each and everyone of them struggling for survival.

Who is the killer? Will their nightmare of a vacation help mend their fractured souls?

Directed by Thop Nazareno, “Fractured” also features Jennica Garcia, Mylene Dizon, Kim Rodriguez, KaladKaren, Majoy Apostol, and Vaughn Piczon.

Stream “Fractured” for free this September 15 on the iWantTFC app (iOs and Android) and website (iwanttfc.com), and on iWantTFC’s YouTube channel. In other select countries, watch iWantTFC on a larger screen with select devices, including VEWD, ROKU, and Amazon Fire streaming devices, Android TV, select Samsung Smart TV models, Telstra TV (in Australia), and VIDAA. Visit https://bit.ly/iWantTFC_TVDevices for a complete list of compatible devices, sign-in instructions, and account activation.

For updates, follow www.facebook.com/iWantTFC and @iwanttfc on Twitter and Instagram, and subscribe to www.youtube.com/iWantTFC. For inquiries and concerns about the service, users can also send an e-mail to support@iwanttfc.com.

Recently, during a press event for the TV show "Senior High," one of the main actresses, Andrea Brillantes, talked about being bullied. She explained how her experience was very similar to what happens to some characters in the show.

If we look back at the time when the baby boomers were young, there were movies with actors like Dolphy who often played characters dealing with bullying or family problems. Some famous examples are Facifica Falaypay, Captain Barbell, Bondying, and others.

Similarly, in Herbert Bautista's movies, his characters were usually bullied, as seen in films like "Puto" and "Captain Barbell."

Even though these challenges are a natural part of growing up and life's journey, we still need to find the courage to tell others how we feel. While these problems may not be a big deal for some, they have become serious issues for today's generation that require attention and help.

The "Senior High" series isn't just showing us what today's young people are going through; it aims to make us aware of what might happen and how it affects them.

The series is sure to spark discussions as it unfolds its story in each episode. According to the actors in the series, viewers will easily connect with the characters, their challenges, and their narratives. While the show addresses some prominent themes, it also delves into the hidden problems within each individual and family, offering opportunities for exploration.

Talking openly and honestly is the best way to deal with these issues. If you feel like you need to talk, don't hesitate to confide in someone close to you, like a friend or a family member.

"we tackle sensitive topics. I really don't want to romanticize drugs, mental health, etc. I want to make this different and magkaroon talaga ng impact and makatulong talaga kami sa ibang tao na we need to take responsibility for our own life," shared Andrea who echoed the sentiments of he co-stars.

"Senior High" opens with the reunion of twin sisters Luna and Sky, both played by Andrea, who have completely differnt personalities. Luna is smart and bubly, while Sky is indifferent to others out of resentment to Luna and their mother Tanya, which is played by Angel Aquino, for abandoning her with her grandmother.

Sky will enter a whole new world when she joins Luna at the prestigious Northford High. She will get to know more about the different cliques in school, including the group of the wealthy bullies and siblings Archie, portrayed by Elijah, and Z, played by Daniela Stranner, Z's rockstar boyfriend Gino, played by Juan Karlos, and their friend Poch, which is portrayed by Miggy Jiminez). While the other faction of sugdents are the "good ones" who have dirty secrets of their own - Obet played by Kyle and young couple Tim and Roxy portrayed by Zaijian and Xyriel.

The sutdents of Northford High will be in hot water when Luna dies after falling from a blacony. It will be ruled as a suicide, but Sky is convinced that someone pushed her sister. Sky will become determined to seek justice and in the process, she will uncover a lot more shocking twists than she has ever imagined. Did Luna really commit suicide? What are the secrets of the students?

"Senior High" is directed by Onat Diaz and Andoy Ranay, the same directors of the hit revenge series "Dirty Linen." It also features Tommy Alejandrino, Gela Atayde, Baron Geisler, Mon Confiado, Sylvia Sanchez, Desiree Del Valle, Kean Cripriano, Ana Abad Santos, Gerald madrid, Inka Magnaye, Agneli Bayani, Ryan Eigenmann, Rans Rifol, Rap Robes, Kakki Teodoro, and Floyd Tena. ABS_CBN Entertianment and iwantTFC present a Dreamscape Entertainment productin, "Senior High," starts its airing thsi August 28 from Mondays To Fridays at 9:30PM on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, A2Z, TV5, iWantTFC, and TFC.

He shared, “Nung invited ako to direct, sabi ko confident ako dahil sobrang attracted ako sa kwento. From different perspectives ikukuwento yung pangyayari at iba-iba yung kakalabasan. Ang intricate at delicate ng storytelling ng JRB Creative Production so pagkabasa ko excited ako at alam ko na kailangan nito ng matinghas na pag-aaral.”

Experimenting with male perspectives

Aside from showcasing female perspectives on the show, Direk FM also puts the spotlight on male protagonists to accommodate the changing habits of viewers. Evidently, JC and Tony who play Philip and Lucas respectively earned praise for their effective portrayal of masculine figures.

“Even before the pandemic nababago na ang point of view ng mga manonood. Mas marami dati ang nanay sa bahay and the statistics are showing that there are more househusbands now and so the flavor for theme hindi na lang naco-concentrate sa female centered stories kundi naghahanap na rin ng strong masculine stories. We are also taking the perspective of the male protagonists in the show. You might call it experimental kasi kung sanay na yung manonood na ganoon na ang sensibility kaya that is something quite new na we are offering,” said Direk FM.

Getting to the character’s core

He might be strict but Direk FM certainly knows how to encourage artists to be the best version of themselves when portraying their character.

He said, "Kapag binasa nila yung script and from what they have deduced out of it, I ask them, 'What do you think drives your character? What is the core?' Incidentally, ang lalim ng kwento, ang hirap ipaliwanag, hindi pwedeng hindi ka mag-aral, susuriin nila yung kalolooban nila kasi ang basehan ko lang palagi ay truth in performance and you get to see if the eyes are lying, if it’s not convincing enough. In that process, you’re not just a director para ka na rin psychologist, para ka rin retreat master."

Elevating the quality

The pandemic has greatly affected how viewers consume content, not to mention the numerous platforms offering various forms of entertainment in just a few clicks. Direk FM noted that these changes challenged them to produce a drama series that can elevate the quality of local TV shows.

"Watching shows has changed a lot during the pandemic. Nagiging mas mataas yung level of appreciation ng mga manonood so nagiging mahirap sa artists pati na rin sa mga nasa likod ng camera. We have to keep up with the time asking of us, the demand for making better shows," he said.

Direk FM’s words of wisdom truly manifested in the sizzling new series "Nag-aapoy na Damdamin" which airs Monday to Friday, 3:50pm on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, iWantTFC, TFC, A2Z, and TV5. For more information on the new series, follow JRB Creative Production on Facebook and Twitter (@JRBcreativeprod) and on Instagram (@JRBcreativeproduction).

For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tiktok or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

In this new series, many years after the infamous Cattleya Killer case, the man who cracked the case, Joven de la Rosa (Christopher de Leon, reprising his role from the film), is now an NBI deputy director. His youngest son Anton (Arjo Atayde) is one of his top agents, while his eldest son Benjie (Jake Cuenca) runs a foundation for traumatized women. It seems as if everybody has moved on from the tragic events of the past, but when a body is found bearing the telltale markings of the long-dead Cattleya Killer, the lives of the three men and everyone around them are thrown into turmoil. Dark secrets are brought to the fore, as the line between the real world and the unreal blurs. No one and nothing is what they seem—least of all Anton, who becomes more and more of a suspect as more victims surface and the investigation tightens.

“We're excited to continue pushing the boundaries and to deliver world-class entertainment made by the best Filipino talents,” said David Simonsen, director of Prime Video Southeast Asia. “We believe with its gripping storyline, dynamic characters, and stunning performances, Cattleya Killer will keep our audiences at the edge of their seats.”

“Crime stories have always been fan favorites, proven by the success of different true-crime series across different formats and territories,” said Ruel S. Bayani, head of ABS-CBN International Production. “And for us, the Philippines' Cattleya Killer is another must-watch, as it tackles the dark human psyche. It also showcases issues rooted in family, government, and society.”

Dan Villegas (Exes Baggage, English Only, Please) directs the series from a script by Dodo Dayao. The series is based on a classic ‘90s film, Sa Aking Mga Kamay (In My Own Hands), available on Prime Video, directed by Rory B. Quintos and starring Aga Muhlach, Chin Chin Gutierrez, and Christopher de Leon.

Cattleya Killer joins hundreds of other Filipino shows and films available on the Prime Video catalog, such as 10 Little Mistresses, Deleter, Family Matters, and Walang KaParis. Korean titles such as Island and Jinny’s Kitchen, anime hits such as Demon Slayer, on top of award-winning and critically acclaimed Amazon Originals like Citadel, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, The Boys, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, and Emmy and Golden Globe winners Fleabag and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Prime Video members are able to watch films and shows anywhere and anytime on hundreds of compatible devices. In the Prime Video app, members can also download episodes on their mobile devices and tablets and watch anywhere offline at no additional cost. Prime Video is available in the Philippines for just PHP149 per month.

For more updates on Cattleya Killer, follow Prime Video on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube. Stream anywhere, anytime at primevideo.com or download the Prime Video app on Google Play, Apple Store, and Microsoft.
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Thousands of fans recently gathered at the #DarnaCaravan in Vista Mall Bataan and Robinsons Galleria South, where the cast performed and thanked viewers for their support. And this weekend, they'll be meeting and greeting fans in General Santos City and Ayala Malls Trinoma.

Since its airing last August, "Darna" has remained one of the top-rated series on television and digital, topping the most-watched shows on iWantTFC and generating millions of views on YouTube per episode. It's even become the most-searched primetime Philippine TV series on Google, with 2.3 billion combined views on TikTok in 2022.

Don't miss the explosive finale of "Darna" on its last two weeks, airing weeknights at 8 PM on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, CineMo, A2Z, and TV5, as well as iWantTFC and TFC. Follow JRB Creative Production and ABS-CBN PR for more updates!