Ready to travel down memory lane? The 2000s was a decade full of awesome Filipino TV series that have captivated viewers since. Whether you’re a fan of drama, comedy, romance, or even horror genre – there are plenty of classic titles worth revisiting or watching for the first time. From hits like Spirits, Marina, and Darna – let’s jump in with a quick recap on some of the best Filipino films and television series from this era!
The post is a bit biased because these are some of MY favorite Filipino TV series in 2000s to watch. And, if you know me in person, I don’t get to watch Filipino TV series a lot. Filipino documentaries – yes, but movies and TV series, no. The only time I get to watch Filipino movies or TV series was when they became a “requirement” for school.
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Filipino TV Series in 2000s
Do you remember watching Filipino TV series when you were growing up in the 2000s? Maybe it was during commercial breaks or whenever your favorite show aired on a local channel. Look back fondly at some of our favorite Philippine TV Series from this era and revisit why they impacted our lives.
Many of our Filipino TV series in 2000s are geared towards fantasy. That’s because this decade did start the trend.
The list only includes fictional TV series. We’ll have a separate list for reality TV programs, news and documentaries, and educational shows.
1. Spirits
Cue, “We’ll be Safe Here,” song by Rivermaya! “Close your eyes, dry your tears…” Probably just among the 00s Filipino TV series that I like – or, perhaps, the only one so far I can remember enjoying it. “Spirits” is a popular Philippine television series that was produced and aired by ABS-CBN. The original series ran from December 6, 2004, to May 6, 2005.
The story revolves around eight kids – Red, Gabby, Lloyd, Liz, Nato, Thor, Jesse, and Maya – discovering they possess special abilities that normal humans don’t. These powers come into play when their hometown is struck by a strange epidemic by aliens.
The cast featured several known figures in the Philippine entertainment industry, including Michelle Madrigal, Joseph Bitangcol, Serena Dalrymple, and Maja Salvador.
In 2018, a reboot of the series titled “Spirits: Reawaken” was created by Chito S. Roño. In “Spirits: Reawaken,” six teenagers with supernatural powers are tasked with fighting against dark forces.
Episodes from the original series and the reboot can be found online on various platforms, offering fans and new viewers a chance to delve into this supernatural drama.
2. Kagat ng Dilim
“Kagat ng Dilim” is a Filipino horror-drama anthology television series. Translated as “Bite of the Dark,” this show offers viewers a unique blend of suspense, drama, and indigenous folklore.
The series is produced by Viva Television and has its premiere on Intercontinental Broadcasting. Each episode of “Kagat ng Dilim” features different stories steeped in Filipino folktales, making it an engaging watch for those interested in traditional narratives and supernatural themes. From eerie encounters to spine-chilling revelations, the series promises a wealth of creepy yet intriguing narratives that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
The show first started in 2000 with three seasons and ended in 2002. It was also revived in 2020 with one season.
3. Munting Anghel
“Munting Anghel” is a Filipino television drama series that was originally broadcast by GMA Network. The title translates to “Little Angel” in English.
The storyline of “Munting Anghel” revolves around the lives of its characters, exploring their relationships, struggles, and triumphs. It’s a show that offers viewers a blend of drama, emotion, and intrigue, keeping them engaged throughout each episode.
The series consists of 13 episodes, each approximately 60 minutes long. Despite its relatively short run, “Munting Anghel,” was pretty good for its narrative and how they reflect Filipino values.
4. Marina
While this marked the launch of “Fantaserye” in the Philippines, you must hate that they made Dugong a villain in the story. In reality, a Dugong is a gentle sea cow that became a monstrous, evil piece in this Fantaserye. Even though the story is fictional, it has a mental (and environmental) impact on how people see dugongs.
“Marina” is a notable Philippine television drama fantasy series that aired from February to November 2004. This show is broadcast by ABS-CBN and is credited with starting the “Fantaserye” (Fantasy series) trend in the Philippines.
At the show’s center is Marina, a young girl who is transformed into a mermaid by a curse. The curse results from a love triangle between Esther, Elias, and Victoria. Elias, a fisherman, falls in love with Esther but spurns Victoria, a witch, who becomes heartbroken and places a curse on Esther’s unborn child. Elias abandons Esther for Victoria, to save Esther and Cristina (Marina’s human name), and they have a daughter together, Luna, while Esther raises their daughter, Cristina, on her own.
The curse happened on Cristina’s seventh birthday, transforming her into a mermaid. Esther is forced to release her daughter into the sea to save her from the fishermen. Thus begins “Marina’s” journey, as she is taken in by the other mermaids and adopted by their queen Istah.
The story revolves around defeating Victoria. Ultimately, Marina must give up being a human to be a mermaid to defeat Victoria.
5. Mulawin
The plot of “Mulawin” revolves around two races of winged humanoids – the Mulawins and the (rebellious) Ravenas. The Mulawins are depicted as the guardians of nature and peace-loving creatures who have co-existed with humans, helping them to safeguard nature. On the other hand, the Ravenas are the antagonists who seek to disrupt the harmony between humans and Mulawins.
The series’ main characters are Aguiluz, portrayed by Richard Gutierrez, and Alwina, played by Angel Locsin. Both characters belong to the Mulawin race. The storyline explores their journey as they strive to protect the mortals from the wrath of the Ravenas.
6. Encantadia
The story of “Encantadia” revolves around the world of Lireo, where Ynang Reyna (Queen Mother) Mine-a lives with her daughters Pirena, Amihan, Alena, and Danaya. These daughters represent one of the four elemental jewels—fire, air, water, and earth. The series illustrates the struggles and conflicts among these sisters as they vie for power and control over Encantadia.
The original “Encantadia” series aired in 2005 and was followed by two sequels—”Etheria: Ang Ikalimang Kaharian ng Encantadia” in December 2005 and “Encantadia: Pag-ibig Hanggang Wakas” in 2006-2007. In 2016, a requel (a combination of a sequel and a remake) of the series, also titled “Encantadia,” was released.
7. Fantastikids
“Fantastikids” is a 2006 Philippine television fantasy adventure series produced by GMA Network. The series was directed by Jun Lana and actor Zoren Legaspi, featuring a captivating blend of action and adventure elements in a fantasy setting.
The story revolves around a group of kids bestowed with superpowers, who fight against evil forces threatening their world. Each child has a unique power, and together they form a formidable team – the ‘Fantastikids.’ Their journey showcases thrilling adventures and the essence of teamwork, friendship, and bravery.
“Fantastikids” is notable for its focus on young protagonists, which made it particularly appealing to younger audiences. The series successfully incorporated many elements of popular superhero narratives while maintaining a distinct Filipino cultural context.
8. Darna (2005)
We’re going to talk about Angel Locsin as Darna and Alessandra de Rossi as Valentina here.
The series is based on Mars Ravelo’s fictional Philippine character, Darna, a superheroine who fights against evil forces to protect the world.
Angel Locsin stars as Darna/Narda, the protagonist of the series. Narda is an ordinary girl who becomes the superheroine Darna after swallowing a mystical stone. Angel Locsin’s portrayal of Darna was applauded for her ability to embody both the strength of Darna and the vulnerability of Narda, making her performance one of the most memorable interpretations of the character.
In this series adaptation, Alessandra de Rossi played the role of Valentina, who is Narda’s cousin (then turned out to be her half-sister). Valentina is a complex character who eventually turns into Darna’s nemesis.
9. Panday
The series is a Philippine fantasy drama, based on the fictional character of the same name created by Carlo J. Caparas and illustrator, Steve Gan. The story of “Panday” centers on the character of Tristan, played by Jericho Rosales, who turns into Panday, a blacksmith turned hero. This transformation occurs when a meteor crashes into the desert of Sto. Sepulcro, and Tristan forges a dagger and a church bell from the remains of the meteor.
Throughout the series, viewers can see how Tristan/Panday navigates his new life, battles evil forces, and deals with romantic relationships with Eden/Camia (played by Heart Evangelista).
10. Fantastic Man
The series features Mark Herras in the lead role of Fantastic Man, originally played by Vic Sotto in the film version. Alongside him, Ryza Cenon stars as Wena, his leading lady, who eventually becomes his sidekick, Fantastic Girl.
The show’s narrative revolves around Fantastic Man’s crime-busting adventures. As a superhero, Fantastic Man uses his abilities to protect the city and its inhabitants from threats and villains.
11. Kokey
Call it – the Filipino version E.T. The series revolves around an alien named Kokey from the planet Yekok who crash-landed on Earth in his spaceship. He befriends two children, Bong and Anna, who help him navigate life on Earth and assist him in his adventures.
It has a 1997 film starring Carlo Aquino. The original TV series was so successful that it spawned a “Kokey at Ako” sequel in 2010. This sequel continued the story of Kokey and his earthly friends, further expanding the universe and introducing new characters.
12. Super Inggo
The story centers around Budong, portrayed by Makisig Morales, a 10-year-old boy who dreams of becoming a superhero. Unknown to him, he possesses superhuman abilities that he inherited from his parents – his superhero father, Super Islaw, and his mother, Bugan, who is depicted as an evil witch in the series.
In the show, Budong lives with his adoptive mother Pacita, and grows up to be a street-smart kid alongside his best friend Jomar (who happens to be his half-brother with Bugan and Leandro). After discovering his powers, Budong attends the superhero school in secret, the Power Academy, and becomes Super Inggo, living out his dream of becoming a full-fledged superhero.
The series also spawned an animated spin-off titled “Super Inggo at ang Super Tropa,” which also aired on ABS-CBN in 2009.
13. Dyesebel
DId I get these two versions right? My mind is splitting between Marian Rivera and Anne Curtis’ versions of Dyesebel. There have been several adaptations of “Dyesebel,” but two notable versions are the 2008 and 2014 series.
In the 2008 series, the story begins with a mermaid-turned-human named Lucia (Jean Garcia) who falls in love with a human. They get married and have a beautiful baby, but she delivers a mermaid instead of a human baby. The child is named Dyesebel (Marian Rivera).
The 2014 series, Mars Ravelo’s Dyesebel, is a Philippine fantasy drama television series loosely based on the original novel. This version (Anne Curtis) follows a similar storyline but includes new plot elements and characters.
Throughout the series, Dyesebel navigates life as a mermaid and faces various challenges and adventures. Also, think about how this is similar to the Little Mermaid. Dyesebel’s story is about her eventual transformation into a human through a deal with a sea witch.
14. Dyosa
The series stars Anne Curtis in the lead role of Josephine, a young woman who discovers she is the “Takda” or Chosen One. She is destined to be the world’s savior from evil forces and possesses the power to transform into three powerful goddesses.
Anne Curtis’s character can transform into Dyosa Tierra (Goddess of the Earth), Dyosa Cielo (Goddess of the Sky), and Dyosa Agua (Goddess of Water). Each persona has unique abilities that assist her in combating the forces of evil.
15. I Love Betty La Fea
The show is an adaptation of the Colombian series “Yo soy Betty, la fea.”
The story revolves around Beatriz “Betty” Pengson, played by Bea Alonzo, an unattractive but extremely intelligent woman who works at an advertising conglomerate called Ecomoda Manila. Despite her talents and capabilities, she often faces ridicule and discrimination due to her physical appearance.
John Lloyd Cruz stars as Armando Solis, the new president of the company, who initially hires Betty because he needs an assistant who doesn’t pose a romantic distraction. However, as they work together, he recognizes her intelligence and dedication, leading to a complicated and dramatic love story between them.
16. Kung Fu Kids
The storyline revolves around seven children with different personalities who are united by their common interest in learning Kung Fu. They call themselves the Kung Fu Kids and they train under a Kung Fu Master named Kung Lee (Kung-Krung).
The main character, Lembot, is a “sickly “weak”young boy who learns Kung Fu. Each child possesses unique abilities which they use to face various challenges throughout the series.
One of the interesting aspects of “Kung Fu Kids” is its focus on friendship, love for family, and courage. The series showcases how these children overcome their personal struggles and fears through the discipline and teachings of Kung Fu.
17. Lobo
The storyline revolves around young lovers Lyka Raymundo and Noah Ortega. Lyka, portrayed by Angel Locsin, is a young woman aspiring to be a fashion designer, and Noah, played by Piolo Pascual, is a second lieutenant in the Philippine Army.
The twist in the tale is that Lyka is a werewolf, the Huling Bantay, a secret she is unaware of initially. The plot thickens as her transformation begins, leading to many complications in her personal and professional life.
18. Luna Mystika
“Luna Mystika” tells the story of Luna and Celestina, twins (both played by Heart Evangelista). During the day, Luna becomes human, while her sister becomes a shadow. These roles become reversed during nighttime. Celestina will do everything to destroy her twin sister’s life by making Luna’s childhood sweetheart, Dexter, fall in love with her instead.
19. Agimat: Ang Mga Alamat ni Ramon Revilla
Agimat: Ang Mga Alamat ni Ramon Revilla pays homage to the original films of Ramon Revilla Sr., bringing their magic and allure to a new generation of viewers.
The series comprises four titles, each representing an amulet (or ‘agimat’) that grants the bearer special abilities. One of the popular titles in the series is “Tiagong Akyat,” where the protagonist, played by Gerald Anderson, possesses superhuman strength, speed, and the ability to climb high structures.
Another significant title in the series is “Pepeng Agimat,” with Jolo Revilla in the lead role. This part of the series revolves around the adventures of Pepeng Agimat, a character originally portrayed by Ramon Revilla Sr. in the 90s.
20. Rosalinda
Aaahh… this is one Filipino TV Series in 2000s that is based on a Mexican telenovela of the same name.
The show stars Carla Abellana as Rosalinda and Geoff Eigenmann as Fernando José. Rosalinda is a sweet woman living a humble life as a flower seller. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she learns that her mother (who happens to be her aunt, Dolores), who raised her, is not her biological mother.
The story takes another twist when she falls in love with Fernando José, the son of a wealthy family who disapproves of their relationship due to Rosalinda’s lower social status. The series follows their love story, filled with trials and tribulations, societal pressures, and complicated family dynamics.
Looking back at the 2000s, plenty of amazing TV series produced by the Philippines deserve a rewatch even up to this day. With themes that range from love stories to family dramas, these series kept us hooked and on the edge of our seats. Gather your loved ones and prepare to binge-watch some of the finest Filipino TV series of the 2000s.
