Suzette Doctolero clears the air after calling Encantadia 2016 "chaka"
- GMA headwriter Suzette Doctolero recently clarified her viral comment where she described the 2016 version of "Encantadia" as "chaka" compared to the original 2005 series
- In a detailed Facebook post, Doctolero explained that her frustration stems from creative compromises made to compete with rival networks rather than the performance of the cast
- She cited the sudden exit of lead characters and production limitations as key reasons why the 2016 "requel" failed to reach its full artistic potential in her eyes
- The writer emphasized her deep love for the franchise and confirmed that the upcoming "Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre" will feature much-awaited appearances from original cast members
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Suzette Doctolero, the creative mind behind GMA Network's most iconic fantaseryes, has finally broken her silence after a controversial comment about the 2016 remake of "Encantadia" went viral. The headwriter previously raised eyebrows when she candidly called the 2016 edition “chaka” (ugly or substandard) while hailing the 2005 original as the superior version.
Source: Instagram
On Saturday, Jan. 3, Doctolero took to Facebook to provide a deep dive into her headspace during the 2016 production. She clarified that her criticism was never directed at the actors, whom she praised for their talent. Instead, her frustration was born from the "creative birth pains" and the pressure of competing against a strong action series on a rival network. “Chaka ang Encantadia 2016?! Kailangan kong magbigay-linaw, lalo’t alam ko kung gaano ninyo minahal ang Encantadia, at taos-puso akong nagpapasalamat doon,” she began.
Doctolero admitted that as a headwriter, her priority in 2016 was to win the ratings war. This forced her to make the narrative more plot-oriented and fast-paced, sacrificing the “lyrical and contemplative” tone of the 2005 version that she personally preferred. She confessed to feeling a sense of loss over deleted scenes, such as the wisdom-filled moments of the character Imaw and the deeper bonding of the young Sang’gres. “Masakit iyan kasi para kang nagluwal ng sanggol pero may kulang,” she shared, comparing the show to a child she loved but felt was incomplete.
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The writer also touched upon the "forced" changes in the storyline, such as the unexpected exit of Kylie Padilla's character, Amihan, which led to a risky reincarnation plot. She also mentioned the sacrifice of Alena’s character arc to favor the popular "Ybramihan" love team, a decision she made to please the audience despite it deviating from the original 2005 lore. Production hurdles, including the change in puppetry for Imaw and lack of exterior greenery during typhoons, added to her frustrations.
Looking ahead, Doctolero expressed her excitement for the current installment, "Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre," which premiered in mid-2025. She noted that while the challenge today is the survival of television itself in the age of social media, her team remains committed to the fans. She also teased that the new season will eventually feature the original Sang’gres once their schedules align. “Hindi nangangahulugan ito na kinalimutan na ang original cast... iyan ang inyong aabangan!” she concluded.
Suzette Doctolero is a veteran screenwriter and creative consultant for GMA Network, best known for creating the "Encantadia" universe and writing historical dramas like "Amaya" and "Maria Clara at Ibarra." She is often celebrated for her world-building skills but is also known for being outspoken on social media regarding her creative works and the television industry.
Doctolero’s outspoken nature has often put her in the spotlight, especially when it comes to defending the network she serves. In a past interaction, she sent a firm message to viewers of the midday show "It's Showtime" when the program began its transition to GMA's GTV, emphasizing the importance of unity among Kapuso and Kapamilya fans. She has always advocated for a collaborative spirit in the industry while remaining fiercely protective of GMA's home-grown content.
Beyond her scripts, Suzette is also a vocal proponent of quality control in Philippine television. She once expressed her hope that the MTRCB would continue to foster healthy competition that encourages networks to elevate their production standards. For Doctolero, the goal is not just to win the ratings, but to ensure that the Filipino audience receives stories that are both culturally relevant and artistically sound.
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Source: KAMI.com.gh
