Stars of the hit Kapuso afternoon show ‘Makiling,’ Elle Villanueva and Derrick Monasterio, have put a lot of work into the series, and upon receiving good feedback from viewers, they are hoping for a Book 2.
In a recent virtual media conference on April 25, the duo shared insights into their immersive experience with ‘Makiling.’ They revealed a behind-the-scenes ritual that underscored their determination to excel.
“Actually, we would always review each other every other taping going home. Halos sabay na po kasi kami palagi,” said Villanueva. “So naging routine na namin na kapag on the way home, instead na matulog kami, magko-comment kami sa anong nangyari sa araw na ito, kamusta ang acting naming dalawa.”
Their commitment extended far beyond the set, with both actors investing time and energy into analyzing their performances even after the cameras stopped rolling. As the show approaches its finale, Villanueva reflected on the growth they’ve experienced, pushed to new heights by the challenges presented by their roles.
“Hopefully nabigay namin talaga ng justice ang character namin. Kasi masasabi ko na naibigay namin ang 100%—101% namin dito sa ‘Makiling.’ Kasi lahat ng pinapagawa nila, talagang ginagawa namin. Even if masama siya sa loob, or pagod na pagod na kami talaga, gagawin mo pa rin eh,” she said.
Monasterio echoed his co-star’s sentiments. They review and assess each other’s performances to see if they have given it their all.
“Tama si Elle, like every day, pinapanood namin. Kung hindi man namin siya mapanood sa TV, papanoorin namin siya sa YouTube,” he revealed.
Earlier on April 23, the show garnered a 7.7 rating from AGB NUTAM. Such success can be attributed not only to the talent of its cast but also to the cohesive efforts of the entire production team in crafting memorable and iconic scenes.
Is There a Book 2 in the Works?
As ‘Makiling’ continues to rake in views, especially in its last few weeks, whispers of a Book 2 became a topic in the virtual presscon. According to Monasterio, the desire for the show’s season 2 came from the dedication of the entire cast and production.
“Ang ginawa lang talaga namin dito is kumonek kami sa kanila on a personal level din off cam, tapos sa eksena. Kaya naging successful siya. Kaya para siyang nag-collab ang mga talents, ganoon ang nangyari. Tapos ito ang kinalabasan na napaka-iconic ng mga scenes,” the actor explained.
He continued, “Lahat ng mga scenes sa Facebook, sobrang kaunti pa lang ng mga hours ang dami nang views. Affected na affected talaga ang mga tao. Nahahati sila sa mga groups, may mga sari-sarili silang bias. Nakakatuwa kasi grabe ang kapit nila sa amin. Ito ang pinakamalakas na kapit sa mga nagawa kong shows so far na parang grabe, invested lahat ng mga tao.”
If given the chance that the show would get a Book 2, both Villanueva and Monasterio are prepared and ready to continue.
“I am super ready, hahaha,” said the Kapuso young artist.
“Hindi pa ready ang production [pero] kami ready kami, hahaha,” chimed Monasterio.
Villanueva wishes to continue the series since “ang dami pa sanang istorya na p’wedeng ma-inject eh.” However, as her cast member Royce Cabrera said, all things come to an end.
“’Yun nga lang, minsan may mga bagay, sabi nga ni Royce, na nage-end. Pero sana po magkaroon ng Book 2,” she expressed.
‘Makiling’ will begin its finale week starting April 29.
