Sanya Lopez is the new leading lady in 'First Yaya'

Sanya Lopez has been named as the new leading lady for the upcoming Kapuso series "First Yaya."

The 24-year-old actress will replace Marian Rivera, who opted out of the lock-in taping to focus on taking care of her family.

In an exclusive interview with GMA News Online, Sanya said she is nervous but excited to work on her first title role in a primetime show.

"Nasa proseso pa rin kami ng pagkilala kay Yaya Melody para mabigyan ng buhay at justice 'yung pagkatao niya," she said about her character, who will be the nanny to the children of the President of the Philippines, played by Gabby Concepcion.

To prepare for the role, Sanya said she is drawing from her previous experiences of taking care of her grandmother and her younger cousins.

"Nasubukan kong magtimpla ng gatas, 'yung magpalit ng diaper kahit hindi ko alam kung paano, magpakain sa kanila," she said.

According to "First Yaya" director LA Madridejos, it's not difficult to imagine Sanya portraying the role of Yaya Melody.

He said that after playing other roles, such as Danaya in "Encantadia," Sanya will show a different side of her in the new series.

"Kapag iniisip ko si Yaya Melody sa katauhan ni Sanya, mangingiti ka na lang eh," he said. "Hindi siya mahirap makita kasi 'yun 'yung hinahanap namin kay Yaya Melody, 'yung very relatable na personality, 'yung bungisngis."

Madridejos said Yaya Melody's goal is to spread positive vibes amid the pandemic, at a time when bad news is all  around us.

"Sa mga panahon na maraming nangyayari sa paligid natin na hindi masyadong masaya, minsan nakakalimutan nating magmahal, ma-inspire, and at the same time maka-inspire sa ibang tao," he said.

"Hayaan nyo si Yaya Melody na dalhin kayo doon, lahat ng pagdadaanan niyang hirap, lahat ng pagdadaanan niyang challenges, itatawid niya ito at magka-come out siya na better person," he added.

The show is currently on its pre-production phase but a lock-in taping is scheduled soon. —MGP, GMA News