"Anyo ng Pag-ibig" is the first Holy Wednesday episode of the 2014 edition of the annual drama anthology Eat Bulaga's Lenten Special. It precedes the episode "Pangalawang Bukas" in the Wednesday lineup. The episode aired on 16 April 2014 with a total runtime of 64 minutes.
Each year, the anthology replaces the noontime show's regular programming in observance of the solemnity of Holy Week. Standalone episodes of short dramas are shown from Holy Monday to Holy Wednesday, with each episode having different characters, story, and director. A total of six episodes were produced and released for the 2014 edition.[1]
Directed by Michael B. Tuviera, "Anyo ng Pag-ibig" is an inspirational tale about a young woman who finds genuine love despite being born with no hair and teeth due to a rare genetic disorder called hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia.[2]
The episode is top-billed by Ryan Agoncillo and Pauleen Luna. Supporting cast includes Ruby Rodriguez, Jimmy Santos, Valerie Weigmann, Krystal Reyes, and Ann Boleche.
Plot
Venus (Pauleen Luna) was born without hair and teeth due to a rare disorder called hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia, and had never developed any growing up. Because of her unusual condition, she often gets bullied by other children, causing her to struggle with her confidence and self-image. Despite the insults, Venus grows up with a loving family who treats her indifferently and reminds her not to let her condition get in the way of her aspirations.
Venus confesses her condition to Junior.
Now an adult, Venus decides to migrate to Manila to find a job hoping to give her family a better life. After being rejected by several employers, Venus is welcomed by Miss Amy (Valerie Weigmann) as a nanny for her younger brother. She immediately develops a bond with the family who is unbothered by her condition. The family even rewards her with a wig for her outstanding diligence and energy as a nanny.
During her time in Manila, Venus tries to go on dates but is immediately shunned by men after discovering her rare condition. She eventually meets Junior (Ryan Agoncillo), a school bus driver who she becomes close friends with. Their closeness gradually turns into attraction as they get to know each other and spend more time together. However, Venus contemplates whether to tell Junior about her disorder or to keep it a secret. After reading a letter from Junior confessing his love for her, Venus gains the confidence to reveal her true appearance.
Venus confronts Junior about the love letter. She confesses her secret to him by removing her wig and her dentures. Junior reaffirms his love for her, expressing that her lively and positive personality matters more than her appearance. Venus and Junior get married in the end.
Cast
Main cast
- Ryan Agoncillo as Junior
- Pauleen Luna as Venus
Supporting cast
- Ruby Rodriguez as Nene
- Jimmy Santos as Elmer
- Valerie Weigmann as Miss Amy
- Krystal Reyes as Vicky
Also starring
- Lochlin Scott Odom as Drei
- Collene Baldeo as young Venus
- Ann Boleche as Thelma
Accolades
Dabarkads Awards
| Year | Category | Nominated Work/Artist | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Best Story | "Anyo ng Pag-ibig" | Nominated |
| Best Actress | Pauleen Luna | Nominated | |
| Best Supporting Role | Ryan Agoncillo | Nominated | |
| Ruby Rodriguez | Nominated | ||
| Jimmy Santos | Nominated |
Trivia
- The episode was inspired by the life story of Mergyl Marquez of Brgy. Cabilang Baybay in Carmona, Cavite, a Juan for All, All for Juan winner who was born with hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia. Despite being born with the rare genetic disorder, she maintained a positive outlook while growing up.
- "Anyo ng Pag-ibig" was re-aired on Friday, 3 April 2020. Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on live programming, Eat Bulaga! opted to replay episodes of some of its most iconic segments and other special presentations from the past.[3]
Full episode
The following video includes the two Holy Wednesday episodes along with The Ryzza Mae Show episode that precedes them. The first part of the video is The Ryzza Mae Show episode featuring interviews with the Lenten Special cast members. It is followed by "Anyo ng Pag-ibig", which begins at 42:00. The final part is "Pangalawang Bukas" starting at 1:45:33.
References
- ↑ Eat Bulaga! holds Dabarkads Awards for Lenten special presentations today, April 26, 26 April 2014, Philippine Entertainment Portal.
- ↑ Bulaga Lenten drama specials, 14 April 2014, The Philippine Star.
- ↑ GMA suspends production of entertainment shows; to air ‘pre-taped’ episodes, 14 March 2020, Philippine Daily Inquirer.