A bond thicker than blood

The friendship of Vergel and Lucero started when they were young. Important events in their lives led them to separate paths and defined who they are. But when it came to the point of sacrificing their lives for the one they love, they both proved that their bond is thicker than blood. Text by Loretta G. Ramirez, Photos courtesy of GMA Network and Mitch S. Mauricio Many waited for Kamandag’s finale just to see how the story would end. They followed Kamandag's struggles and adventures. They witnessed his conflict with Lucero, a childhood friend who turned out to be his cousin. On Kamandag’s final night, his path crossed with Lucero’s again and they had to make the most important decision in their lives. United for a cause Carlo J. Caparas’ Kamandag ended with Vergel and Lucero working together to save Jenny – the girl they both love. Though hesitant at first, both knew that they didn’t stand a chance against Abdon if they did not work together. Lucero, played by Mark Anthony Fernandez, has been bad throughout most of the show. He exhibited how ruthless he can be when someone gets in his way, especially when Jenny is concerned. As Abdon’s son, he was raised to hate Alicia and her son Vergel, though they are related by blood. Throughout the series Mark has worked hard to convince everybody that he can be an effective kontrabida. There were a lot of scenes where Mark and Richard had to be in combat and their rivalry may seem real to most viewers. But unknown to many Richard and Mark are good friends. “Si Richard mami-miss ko,” says Mark when we asked him what he will miss when Kamandag ends. But he was quick to add that their fans should watch out for their next project together. “May usapan na kami ni Richard,” says Mark rather mysteriously. The bond of love It was Vergel’s love for Jenny that led him to turn his back on Lily and pursue his true love. It was also Vergel’s love for Jenny that made him agree to work with Lucero a.k.a. Talim to save her from Abdon. On the other hand, it was Lucero’s love for Jenny that led him to do unthinkable things. His love for this girl transformed him into Talim, a heartless monster who would kill anyone who got in his way. But it was also Lucero’s love for this girl that made him sacrifice his life to save Vergel and the others from the bomb that would have killed them all, including Jenny. “Masama at madilim ang pagakatao ko, si Jenny lang ang nagbigay ng tanging liwanag sa madilim kong pagakatao,” were Lucero’s dying words to Vergel. Kamandag’s story highlights the message that the bond of love can make you do extraordinary things. Blood is indeed a strong tie, but the bond of love is a stronger force that can lead you to change who you are and make you hope that there is a brighter future. Though Lucero’s love has poisoned his mind, in the end he redeemed himself and saved everybody from harm’s way. At the conclusion of this epic, Kamandag’s adventure continues and his quest for love remains. Say your final farewell to Kamandag and the world of Ambograw. Log on to the iGMA forums Feel the Fun with Richard! Text RICHARD and send to 4627. (Each Fanatxt message costs P2.50 for GLOBE, SMART and TALK N TEXT, while it costs P2.00 for SUN subscribers. This service is available only in the Philippines.) Click on the following features to read more about the end of Kamandag’s adventures: Missing Kamandag Vergel’s True Love Kamandag’s Reign Ends