'Pepito Manaloto' stars reflect on gratitude, success as show celebrates 16th anniversary

The stars of “Pepito Manaloto” looked back on the show’s success, its audience support, and the teamwork behind its continued run as the show celebrates its 16th anniversary this year.

In Aubrey Carampel’s report on “24 Oras” on Friday, lead star Michael V, who plays Pepito, credited the show’s longevity not only to his creative vision but also to consistent backing from the network and production team.

“Ang malaking factor diyan is 'yung willingness ko talaga to entertain and 'yung suporta ng network kasi hindi naman mangyayari 'to kung hindi susuportahan ng GMA,” he said.

“It's all an idea na nasa ulo ko. Kung hindi na-execute nang tama with the help of the network, hindi rin naman magtatagal nang ganito," he added.

Co-star Manilyn Reynes, who portrays Elsa, expressed gratitude for Bitoy, the team, and viewers who have stayed with the show since its early years.

“Thankful kami actually sa iyo [Bitoy]. Hindi namin laging sinasabi 'yan pero salamat talaga. At sa network syempre dahil nga kasama kami sa palabas na 'to, napakalaking bagay,” Manilyn said.

“Napakalaking pagpapasalamat din namin sa mga tao na simula noong nagsimula tayo hanggang ngayon, nandiyan pa rin,” she added.

Meanwhile, John Feir, who plays Patrick, reflected on the show’s rare longevity in the industry, noting that it is the longest-running project he has been part of in his career.

“Sixteen years na kami magkakasama nito. Very thankful talaga kami at ngayon lang ako nagkaroon ng show na ganito kahaba,” he said.

The two-part anniversary special of the show will feature the renewal of vows of Pepito and Elsa.

Adding more excitement to the anniversary special are guest stars Inah de Belen, Teejay Marquez, Ashley Lopez, Phi Palmos, Maureen Larrazabal, Ron Angeles, and more.

The two-part anniversary special kicked off on May 30, with its second and concluding episode set to air on Saturday, June 6.

"Pepito Manaloto: Tuloy ang Kuwento" airs every Saturday at 7:15 p.m. on GMA Network, Kapuso Stream, and YouLOL YouTube channel.

—Jade Veronique Yap/CDC, GMA News