"Dalangin ng Ama" is the first Holy Monday episode of the 2016 edition of the annual drama anthology Eat Bulaga's Lenten Special. It precedes the episode "Kaputol ng Buhay" in the Monday lineup. The episode aired on 21 March 2016 with a total runtime of 59 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.
It is topbilled by Joey de Leon, Ryan Agoncillo, and Andrea Torres. Supporting cast includes Jimmy Santos, Anjo Yllana, Pia Guanio, Perry Escaño, and Andrew Gan.
The episode is directed by Gina Alajar.
Plot
Ramil (Ryan Agoncillo) is an honest police officer who strives to carry out his duties properly and act with integrity in every situation. In the field, he is focused, courageous, and tough-minded. But back at home, Ramil is powerless when it comes to his alcoholic father Oscar (Joey de Leon). Oscar mistreats and insults his son as he blames him for his wife's death. His sister Aila (Andrea Torres) urges him to fight back. Still, Ramil holds back his frustration out of respect for his father.
Ramil and his father Oscar
One day, Oscar enters Ramil's bedroom and steals the money meant for Aila's tuition stashed inside his son's dresser. Ramil finally confronts his father who unapologetically admits his wrongdoing. The heated exchange ends with Oscar punching his son after Ramil brought up his mother into the conversation.
With college enrollments coming up, Aila resorts to prostitution in order to earn the necessary money for her tuition. Feeling somewhat guilty, Oscar resorts to illegal gambling in order to help his daughter out. Meanwhile, Ramil's task force has been assigned to raid the home where Oscar gambles. On the night of the raid, Ramil is shot by an armed gambler and is rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
After seeing his son get shot, Oscar becomes remorseful for his criminal wrongdoings. Aila blames his father for her brother's current condition. Alone at home, Oscar reflects on his actions while praying. He considers himself blind for not seeing the kindness and morality of Ramil. He confesses his fear of losing his son and promises to change his behavior from now on.
Ramil comes home from the hospital and is warmly greeted by his father. Still feeling resentful, he initially ignores his father's attempts. Yet Oscar is determined to change his behavior. Oscar gets a job to help pay for the bills and reconciles with his daughter Aila. Ramil sees his father's persistent efforts and finally forgives his father.
Cast
Main cast
- Joey de Leon as Omar Abquilan
- Ryan Agoncillo as PO2 Ramil Abquilan
- Andrea Torres as Aila Abquilan
Supporting cast
- Jimmy Santos as Eddie
- Anjo Yllana as Sebastian
- Pia Guanio as Tanya Perez
Also starring
- Perry Escaño as young Omar
- Andrew Gan as gun ban violator
Accolades
Dabarkads Awards
| Year | Category | Nominated Work/Artist | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Best Story of the Year | "Dalangin ng Ama" | Won |
| Dabarkads Choice Award | "Dalangin ng Ama" | Nominated | |
| Most Dramatic Performance of a Lead Star | Ryan Agoncillo | Nominated | |
| Darling of the Screen Award | Pia Guanio | Nominated | |
| Exceptional Performance in a Supporting Role | Pia Guanio | Nominated | |
| Jimmy Santos | Nominated |