Encantadia 2016: Can GMA’s Requel Beat the Original’s 51.7% Rating?

IN 2005, ‘ENCANTADIA’ hit a peak rating of 51.7%, according to AGB Nielsen Philippines. That’s the number GMA Network’s new version has to chase.

The fantasy series became a phenomenon on its first run, one of the most popular fantaseryes (the Filipino TV fantasy drama) ever made, and a genuine piece of modern Filipino pop culture. Now, exactly one week before its ‘requel’ (a retelling that doubles as a sequel) premieres on July 18, the excitement is real, and so is the hope that it won’t disappoint.

Given the original’s massive success, the requel is expected to deliver soaring ratings for GMA-7.

Sanya as Danaya, Kylie as Amihan, Gabbi as Alena, and Glaiza as Pirena in the new warrior costume designs.

From left: newcomer Sanya Lopez as Danaya, Kylie Padilla as Amihan, Gabbi Garcia as Alena, and Glaiza de Castro as Pirena, the new sang’gres, in their redesigned warrior costumes.

A New Set of Sang’gres

When the new cast was revealed, reactions were mixed, from diehard Encantadiks to newly curious fans. Viewers who followed the first version couldn’t help feeling nostalgic for the original sang’gres, the four warrior princesses at the heart of the story. Others were openly optimistic about the new lineup. Either way, millions of Filipino viewers are waiting for this one.

The original sang’gres in the first warrior costumes: Sunshine Dizon as Pirena, Iza Calzado as Amihan, Karylle as Alena, and Diana Zubiri as Danaya.

The Costumes Are Already Winning

The new designs are clearly different from the originals. Some fans still can’t let go of the old look, but the redesigned costumes are undeniably stunning, and for the most impatient fans they’re already reason enough to get excited. The real test is how they look and move on screen.

Because this is a retelling, fans can expect plenty of changes and additions, and more than a few surprise plot twists.

The Royal Couple Returns

Reuniting for the requel are Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera, the King and Queen of Kapuso Primetime, who are expected to push the show’s ratings even higher. Their characters’ new costumes should delight fans too.

The Kapuso Primetime Queen as Ynang Reyna Minea in her warrior costume.

The Kapuso Primetime King as Prince Raquim.

Some of the major cast members promoted Encantadia 2016 on ’24 Oras’ during the newscast’s April 5 airing.

Chasing a Record

The teaser first aired last month, and the official trailer debuted July 5 on ’24 Oras,’ GMA’s primetime newscast. If the trailers are any sign, the requel is geared to take on that 51.7% and break new records.