Veteran actress Coney Reyes is marking her 50th year in the entertainment industry by starring in the upcoming GMA Network drama series ‘Shining Inheritance.’
At 71, the beloved actress remains passionate about her craft, using her latest role to highlight important social issues, particularly the care of the elderly and those with Alzheimer’s disease.
During a press conference for ‘Shining Inheritance’ held on August 30, Reyes expressed deep gratitude for her enduring career and the opportunity to continue doing what she loves.
“Ang pinaka shining moment ko siguro na hanggang ngayon nandito pa rin ako,” Reyes said, her voice full of emotion. “I’m just so blessed. I feel so grateful that God has allowed me to use what He has given me, the talent He has given me until now that I’m 71 years old.”
In the series, Reyes portrays Aurea De La Costa, a grandmother battling Alzheimer’s disease who is often overlooked by her family. The role is personal for Reyes, who stressed the importance of valuing and caring for the elderly.
“Kasi diba minsan ‘yung mga matatanda binabalewala ng mga tao sa paligid nila so parang sa puso ko rin kailangan makita nila, kailangan pinapahalagahan ang mga taong ‘to, inaalagaan, minamahal, lahat naman tayo tatanda diba,” Reyes said. “We hope to be able to make people understand kung paano ba alagaan ang mga may Alzheimer.”
@lionheartv In the midst of discussing her return to television, Coney Reyes expressed her deep frustration with the proliferation of false information, particularly on social media. #ConeyReyes #ShiningInheritance #EntertainmentNewsPH #TiktokTainmentPH #BestOfTiktokPH #LionhearTV #RAWRNation
Despite her decades-long career, Reyes remains enthusiastic about her work and is excited about what the future holds.
“50 years ko nang ginagawa ito pero enjoy na enjoy pa rin ako, but of course I have to pace myself,” she shared. “Magpaparinig na naman ako sana pangarap ko balang araw magkaroon ako ng sitcom o kaya dramedy kasi kita naman ninyo marunong naman ako magpatawa. Akala niyo lang kasi puro drama drama. Iyak dito, iyak dyan. Medyo sawa na ako kakaiyak,” she added with a smile, thanking GMA for continuing to give her meaningful projects.
Reyes’s career began in 1974 with her film debut in ‘The Return of the Dragon.’ She quickly became a household name, appearing on television in the popular noontime variety show ‘Student Canteen’ on GMA Network. In 1977, she hosted her own show, ‘Coney Reyes-Mumar Studio,’ and later joined the ‘Eat… Bulaga!’ family in 1982.
Over the years, Reyes has become known for her roles in family-oriented dramas such as ‘100 Days to Heaven,’ ‘Nathaniel,’ and ‘My Dear Heart,’ as well as in the film ‘Four Sisters and a Wedding.’
‘Shining Inheritance,’ the Philippine adaptation of the 2009 Korean drama ‘Brilliant Legacy,’ is set to premiere on GMA Afternoon Prime on September 9. The series promises to be another highlight in Coney Reyes’s storied career, showcasing her enduring talent and commitment to telling meaningful stories.