JENNYLYN Mercado is set to portray a transgender woman for the first time in her acting career in the upcoming episode of GMA Network’s “Magpakailanman.”
The Kapuso actress will headline “Mama’s Cradle: The Carina Suarez a.k.a. Francisco Suarez Story,” which will air on Nov. 21 as part of the drama anthology’s 24th anniversary specials.
The episode follows the life of Carina Suarez, also known as Francisco Suarez, a transgender woman, breadwinner and dog lover who faces a terminal illness.
Despite the challenges brought by her health condition, Carina finds comfort and fulfillment in caring for animals. Her journey eventually leads her to adopt her first dog, whose unconditional love becomes an important part of her life.
The story also highlights Carina’s efforts to establish an animal sanctuary for abandoned dogs and cats, highlighting her compassion for animals despite the difficulties she faces.
Directed by Mark Sicat Dela Cruz, the episode was written by Senedy Que and Vienuel Ello, with research by Karl Angelo Butuan and Rodney Junio.
Mercado’s episode will serve as the finale of the program’s three-part anniversary special.
The celebration will begin on Nov. 7 with “Mag-ama, Reunited sa Bus: The Jinky Partolan Story,” starring Caprice Cayetano, Katrina Halili and Neil Ryan Sese. It tells the story of a father and daughter who unexpectedly reunite on a bus in Cavite after years of estrangement.
Bianca Umali, meanwhile, will headline “Sunog na Mukha: The Rhea Gon Story” on Nov. 14. The episode follows a woman whose face is severely burned in an accident, leaving her struggling with insecurity, heartbreak and family difficulties.
The three anniversary specials will air at 8:15 p.m. on GMA, with simultaneous livestreaming on GMA Play. (Jessica Ann Evangelista © Philippine Daily Inquirer)
