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{{short description|2012 Philippine television series}}
{{Short description|2012 Philippine television drama series}}
{{Use Philippine English|date=January 2023}}
{{Use Philippine English|date=January 2023}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=June 2018}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=June 2018}}
{{Infobox television
{{Infobox television
| image = Luna Blanca title card.jpg
| image = Luna Blanca title card.jpg
| alt = An image with a blue background, with several stars. The series title is displayed on the center of the image. The logo of GMA Network is displayed on the upper right side of the image.
| caption = Title card
| caption = Title card
| genre = [[Fantasy drama]]
| genre = [[Fantasy drama]]
⚫
| runtime = 30-45 minutes
| creator = {{plainlist|
| creator = {{plainlist|
* [[RJ Nuevas]]
* [[R.J. Nuevas]]
* Dode Cruz}}
* Dode Cruz}}
| developer = Kit Villanueva-Langit
| developer = Kit Villanueva-Langit
| director = [[Dominic Zapata]]
⚫
| executive_producer = Mona Coles Mayuga
| writer = {{plainlist|
| writer = {{plainlist|
* Ma. Cristina Velasco
* Ma. Cristina Velasco
* Luningning Ribay
* Luningning Ribay
* Marlon Miguel}}
* Marlon Miguel}}
| producer = [[GMA Network]]
| director = [[Dominic Zapata]]
| creative_director = [[Jun Lana]]
| creative_director = [[Jun Lana]]
⚫
| cinematography = Roman Theodossis
| starring = {{plainlist|
| starring = {{plainlist|
* [[Jillian Ward]]
* [[Jillian Ward]]
Line 27: Line 24:
* [[Bianca King]]
* [[Bianca King]]
* [[Heart Evangelista]]}}
* [[Heart Evangelista]]}}
| composer = Willy Cruz and Baby Gil
| theme_music_composer = Willy Cruz and Baby Gil
| opentheme = "Sana'y Maghintay ang Walang Hanggan" (main theme) by [[Rachelle Ann Go]]
| open_theme = "Sana'y Maghintay ang Walang Hanggan" by [[Rachelle Ann Go]]
| country = Philippines
| country = Philippines
⚫
| language = Tagalog
⚫
| num_episodes = 115
⚫
| executive_producer = Mona Coles Mayuga
| location = {{plainlist|
| location = {{plainlist|
* [[Manila]], Philippines
* [[Manila]], Philippines
Line 36: Line 36:
* [[Cavite]], Philippines
* [[Cavite]], Philippines
* [[Tagaytay]], Philippines}}
* [[Tagaytay]], Philippines}}
⚫
| cinematography = Roman Theodossis
⚫
| language = Tagalog
⚫
| camera = [[Multiple-camera setup]]
⚫
| runtime = 20–38 minutes
⚫
| company = GMA Entertainment TV
| network = [[GMA Network]]
| network = [[GMA Network]]
⚫
| company = GMA Entertainment TV
⚫
| camera = [[Multiple-camera setup]]
| first_aired = {{start date|2012|5|21}}
| first_aired = {{start date|2012|5|21}}
| last_aired = {{end date|2012|10|26}}
| last_aired = {{end date|2012|10|26}}
⚫
| num_episodes = 115
| related = ''[[Luna Mystika]]''
| related = ''[[Luna Mystika]]''
}}
}}


'''''Luna Blanca''''' is a 2012 [[Philippine television drama]] fantasy series broadcast by [[GMA Network]]. The series served as a sequel to the 2008 Philippine television series ''[[Luna Mystika]]''. Directed by [[Dominic Zapata]], it stars [[Jillian Ward]], [[Mona Louise Rey]], [[Bea Binene]], [[Barbie Forteza]], [[Bianca King]] and [[Heart Evangelista]]. It premiered on May 21, 2012 on the network's Telebabad line up replacing ''[[Biritera]]''. The series concluded on October 26, 2012 with a total of 115 episodes. It was replaced by ''[[Temptation of Wife (Philippine TV series)|Temptation of Wife]]'' in its timeslot.
'''''Luna Blanca''''' is a 2012 [[Philippine television drama]] fantasy series broadcast by [[GMA Network]]. The series served as a sequel to the 2008 Philippine television series ''[[Luna Mystika]]''. Directed by [[Dominic Zapata]], it stars [[Jillian Ward]], [[Mona Louise Rey]], [[Bea Binene]], [[Barbie Forteza]], [[Bianca King]] and [[Heart Evangelista]] all in the title roles. It premiered on May 21, 2012 on the network's Telebabad line up replacing ''[[Biritera]]''. The series concluded on October 26, 2012 with a total of 115 episodes. It was replaced by ''[[Temptation of Wife (Philippine TV series)|Temptation of Wife]]'' in its timeslot.


The series is streaming online on [[YouTube]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGRhcC_vtOrYwYKNpRy9-hWHUsU4XZq9g |title=Luna Blanca Full Episodes - YouTube |website=[[YouTube]] |access-date=December 1, 2022}}</ref>
The series is streaming online on [[YouTube]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGRhcC_vtOrYwYKNpRy9-hWHUsU4XZq9g |title=''Luna Blanca'' (Stream Together) - YouTube |website=[[YouTube]] |access-date=May 7, 2024}}</ref>


==Cast and characters==
==Cast and characters==
{{multiple image
{{multiple image
|header = Cast
| header = Cast
|align = center
| align = center
|direction = horizontal
| direction = horizontal
|total_width = 600
| total_width = 750
|image1 = Bea Binene (cropped).jpg
| image1 = Bea Binene (cropped).jpg
|caption1 = Bea Binene
| caption1 = Bea Binene
|image2 = Barbie Forteza at the Meant to Be production presentation.jpg
| alt1 = An image of Bea Binene.
| image2 = Barbie Forteza at the Meant to Be production presentation.jpg
|caption2 = Barbie Forteza
| caption2 = Barbie Forteza
| alt2 = An image of Barbie Forteza.
⚫
|image3 = Heart Evangelista.jpg
|caption3 = Heart Evangelista
| image3 = Heart Evangelista.jpg
⚫
| caption3 = Heart Evangelista
⚫
|image4 = Lani Mercado - 2011 (cropped).jpg
| alt3 = An image of Heart Evangelista.
⚫
|caption4 = Lani Mercado
⚫
| image4 = Lani Mercado - 2011 (cropped).jpg
⚫
| caption4 = Lani Mercado
| alt4 = An image of Lani Mercado.
| image5 = Mark Herras 05.jpg
| caption5 = Mark Herras
| alt5 = An image of Mark Herras.
}}
}}


<!--Official cast billing from GMA Network.-->
<!--Official cast billing from GMA Network.-->
;Lead cast
;Lead cast
{{col div}}
⚫
* [[Jillian Ward]], [[Bea Binene]] and [[Bianca King]] as Luna Sandoval / Luna De Jesus / Cara Amor Montecines
* [[Jillian Ward]] as younger Luna Sandoval
* [[Mona Alawi|Mona Louise Rey]], [[Barbie Forteza]] and [[Heart Evangelista]] as Blanca S. Buenaluz
* [[Mona Alawi|Mona Louise Rey]] as younger Blanca Sandoval
* [[Bea Binene]] as teenage Luna
* [[Barbie Forteza]] as teenage Blanca
⚫
* [[Bianca King]] as older Luna / Cara Amor Montecines
* [[Heart Evangelista]] as older Blanca
{{col div end}}


;Supporting cast
;Supporting cast
{{col div}}
* [[Raymart Santiago]] and [[Christopher de Leon]] as Luis Buenaluz
* [[Raymart Santiago]] as younger Luis Buenaluz
* [[Camille Prats]] and [[Lani Mercado]] as Rowena Sandoval
* [[Camille Prats]] as younger Rowena Sandoval
* [[Chynna Ortaleza]] and [[Carmi Martin]] as Divine Alvarez-Buenaluz
* [[Chynna Ortaleza]] as younger Divine Alvarez
* [[Dante Rivero]] as Igme Sagrado
* [[Dante Rivero]] as Igme Sagrado
* [[Marissa Delgado]] as Consuelo Buenaluz
* [[Marissa Delgado]] as Consuelo Buenaluz
Line 82: Line 96:
* Arkin Magalona as Toti
* Arkin Magalona as Toti
* [[Gina Alajar]] as Linda De Jesus
* [[Gina Alajar]] as Linda De Jesus
⚫
* [[Kristofer Martin]] and [[Mark Herras]] as Joaquin "Aki" Alvarez<ref>{{cite web|url=https://pep.ph/news/34733/kristoffer-martin-switches-loveteam-partner-from-joyce-ching-to-bea-binene |title=Kristoffer Martin switches loveteam partner from Joyce Ching to Bea Binene |date=July 5, 2012 |access-date=August 25, 2020 |author=Mendoza, Ruel J. |website=PEP}}</ref>
⚫
* Nicky Castro and [[Derrick Monasterio]] as Kiko De Jesus<ref>{{cite web|url=https://pep.ph/news/34732/derrick-monasterio-is-barbie-forteza39s-leading-man-in-luna-blanca |title=Derrick Monasterio is Barbie Forteza's leading man in Luna Blanca |date=July 5, 2012 |access-date=August 25, 2020 |author=Mendoza, Ruel J. |website=PEP}}</ref>
⚫
* Carlos Morales as Devolas / Diego Montecines
⚫
* [[Ryza Cenon]] as Ashley Alvarez
* [[Allan Paule]] as Crispin De Jesus
* [[Allan Paule]] as Crispin De Jesus
⚫
* [[Kristoffer Martin]] as younger Joaquin "Aki" Alvarez<ref>{{cite web|url=https://pep.ph/news/34733/kristoffer-martin-switches-loveteam-partner-from-joyce-ching-to-bea-binene |title=Kristoffer Martin switches loveteam partner from Joyce Ching to Bea Binene |date=July 5, 2012 |access-date=August 25, 2020 |author=Mendoza, Ruel J. |website=PEP}}</ref>
⚫
* [[Derrick Monasterio]] as older Kiko De Jesus<ref>{{cite web|url=https://pep.ph/news/34732/derrick-monasterio-is-barbie-forteza39s-leading-man-in-luna-blanca |title=Derrick Monasterio is Barbie Forteza's leading man in ''Luna Blanca'' |date=July 5, 2012 |access-date=August 25, 2020 |author=Mendoza, Ruel J. |website=PEP}}</ref>
⚫
* [[Ryza Cenon]] as Ashley Alvarez
* [[Yassi Pressman]] as Kate<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cosmo.ph/entertainment/yassi-pressman-tv-shows-guide-a2520-20190101-lfrm |title=Here's Your Complete Guide To Yassi Pressman's TV Shows |author=Tabanera, Lily Grace |website=[[Cosmopolitan (magazine)|Cosmopolitan]] |access-date=April 11, 2024}}</ref>
* [[Christopher de Leon]] as older Luis
* [[Lani Mercado]] as older Rowena
* [[Carmi Martin]] as older Divine
⚫
* Carlos Morales as Devolas / Diego Montecines
* [[Mark Herras]] as older Aki
{{col div end}}


;Guest cast
;Guest cast
{{col div}}
* [[Marco Alcaraz]] as Alex
* [[Marco Alcaraz]] as Alex
* [[Dexter Doria]] as Eloisa
* [[Dexter Doria]] as Eloisa
* [[Jan Marini Alano]] as Belen
* [[Jan Marini Alano]] as Belen
* Nicky Castro as younger Kiko
* [[Yassi Pressman]] as Kate
* [[Jade Lopez]] as Roma
* [[Jade Lopez]] as Roma
⚫
* [[Bettina Carlos]] as Cherry
* [[Luis Alandy]] as Teddy
* [[Luis Alandy]] as Teddy
⚫
* [[Bettina Carlos]] as Cherry
{{col div end}}


==Overview==
==Development==
Associate producer, Jonathan Pachica, said that ''Luna Blanca'' is a sequel to ''[[Luna Mystika]]'',<ref>{{cite news |url=https://filipinojournal.com/childstars-jillian-ward-and-mona-louise-rey-topbill-luna-blanca/ |title=Childstars Jillian Ward and Mona Louise Rey topbill 'Luna Blanca' |date=January 23, 2013 |access-date=August 25, 2020 |work=Filipino Journal}}</ref> GMA Network's 2008 drama series, which also starred [[Heart Evangelista]]. It premiered on November 17, 2008 and concluded on March 6, 2009.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/shows/lunamystika/videos |title=GMANetwork.com - Entertainment - Home of Kapuso shows and stars |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160920054622/http://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/shows/lunamystika/videos |archive-date=September 20, 2016}}</ref> The prequel's story revolves around the twins' lives and their relationship with each other. On the other hand, the story is set 30 years later, which is about the twin sisters and their journey toward discovering their ancestry and fulfilling their personal destinies.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tribuneonline.org/life/20120615lif5.html |access-date=July 6, 2012 }} {{dead link|date=October 2020}}</ref>
Associate producer, Jonathan Pachica, said that ''Luna Blanca'' is a sequel to ''[[Luna Mystika]]'',<ref>{{cite web|url=https://filipinojournal.com/childstars-jillian-ward-and-mona-louise-rey-topbill-luna-blanca/ |title=Childstars Jillian Ward and Mona Louise Rey topbill ''Luna Blanca'' |date=January 23, 2013 |access-date=August 25, 2020 |website=Filipino Journal}}</ref> GMA Network's 2008 drama series, which also starred [[Heart Evangelista]]. It premiered on November 17, 2008 and concluded on March 6, 2009.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/shows/lunamystika/videos |title=GMANetwork.com - Entertainment - Home of Kapuso shows and stars |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160920054622/http://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/shows/lunamystika/videos |website=GMA Network |archive-date=September 20, 2016}}</ref>


The connection between these two series was presented during ''Luna Blanca's'' premiere episode on May 21, 2012, where selected clips from ''Luna Mystika'' was shown while Rowena, the character played by [[Camille Prats]], narrating a story to a bunch of children about the Sagrado family and the ''engkanto''-blooded twins Luna and Celestina and how the latter transforms into a monster every time the full moon shines brightly at night who intends to scare the children. Lolo Igme, Rowena's grandfather portrayed by [[Dante Rivero]] (who was also part of the prequel as Don Joaquin Sagrado), came and asked Rowena not to make fun of her origin again. In the story, Rowena is revealed to be the last descendant of Luna Mystika; one thing she does not believe because she thinks that the ''engkanto'' and other supernatural creatures are just myth or merely imagination. Her disbelief persists until she encounters a black, smoke-like creature known as the ''engkanto''<ref>{{cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZOZpI85a1fI |title=Luna Blanca: Luis, sinugod ang engkanto |date=May 24, 2012 |accessdate=October 10, 2020 |publisher=GMANetwork |via=YouTube |language=fil}}</ref> in the forest who raped her. Rowena's nightmares are far from over when she gives birth to an unusual twin, one with fair skin (Blanca) and the other one with very dark complexions (Luna). Unknown to Rowena, Luna also has a mystical twin shadow aside from Blanca.<ref name=anino>{{cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFR9_PTCdlM |title=Luna Blanca: Luna tinulungan ng isang anino |date=May 30, 2012 |accessdate=October 10, 2020 |publisher=GMANetwork |via=YouTube |language=fil}}</ref> the same eerie creature first unveiled in Luna Mystika.
The connection between these two series was presented during ''Luna Blanca's'' premiere episode on May 21, 2012, where selected clips from ''Luna Mystika'' was shown while Rowena, the character played by [[Camille Prats]], narrating a story to a bunch of children about the Sagrado family and the ''engkanto''-blooded twins Luna and Celestina and how the latter transforms into a monster every time the full moon shines brightly at night who intends to scare the children. Lolo Igme, Rowena's grandfather portrayed by [[Dante Rivero]] (who was also part of the prequel as Joaquin Sagrado), came and asked Rowena not to make fun of her origin again. In the story, Rowena is revealed to be the last descendant of ''Luna Mystika''; one thing she does not believe because she thinks that the ''engkanto'' and other supernatural creatures are just myth or merely imagination. Her disbelief persists until she encounters a black, smoke-like creature known as the ''engkanto''<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZOZpI85a1fI |title=''Luna Blanca'': Luis, sinugod ang engkanto |date=May 24, 2012 |access-date=October 10, 2020 |website=[[YouTube]] |language=fil}}</ref> in the forest who raped her. Rowena's nightmares are far from over when she gives birth to an unusual twin, one with fair skin (Blanca) and the other one with very dark complexions (Luna). Unknown to Rowena, Luna also has a mystical twin shadow aside from Blanca.<ref name=anino>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFR9_PTCdlM |title=''Luna Blanca'': Luna tinulungan ng isang anino |date=May 30, 2012 |access-date=October 10, 2020 |website=[[YouTube]] |language=fil}}</ref> the same eerie creature first unveiled in Luna Mystika.


⚫
On May 2, 2012 at the story conference of the series, Cheryl Ching-Sy, the Senior Program Manager,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newsontweet.com/pep-alerts-sa-may-2-na-ang-story-conference-ng-luna-blanca-ng-gma-7-na-tatampu |title=Sa May 2 na ang story conference ng ''Luna Blanca'' ng GMA-7 na tatampu |date=April 30, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130130090533/http://www.newsontweet.com/pep-alerts-sa-may-2-na-ang-story-conference-ng-luna-blanca-ng-gma-7-na-tatampu |archive-date=January 30, 2013}}</ref> explained that the series is a multi-generational drama.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/258287/showbiz/luna-blanca-kauna-unahang-multi-generation-series-ng-gma-7/story |title=''Luna Blanca'', kauna-unahang multi-generation series ng GMA-7 |website=GMA Network |date=May 15, 2012 |access-date=August 25, 2020 |language=fil}}</ref> It ran for three chapters with a different line up of actors starring in each generation's story. The production targeted a 25-week run for the series.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/lifestyle/2012/06/05/mothers-stars-225240 |title=The Mothers of the stars |date=June 5, 2012 |access-date=October 10, 2020 |author=Gazo, Betsy |website=[[SunStar]] Bacolod |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121230204716/http://www.sunstar.com.ph:80/bacolod/lifestyle/2012/06/05/mothers-stars-225240 |archive-date=December 30, 2012}}</ref>
⚫
==Production==
⚫
On May 2, 2012 at the story conference of the series, Cheryl Ching-Sy, the Senior Program Manager,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.newsontweet.com/pep-alerts-sa-may-2-na-ang-story-conference-ng-luna-blanca-ng-gma-7-na-tatampu |title=Sa May 2 na ang story conference ng Luna Blanca ng GMA-7 na tatampu… |date=April 30, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130130090533/http://www.newsontweet.com/pep-alerts-sa-may-2-na-ang-story-conference-ng-luna-blanca-ng-gma-7-na-tatampu |archive-date=January 30, 2013}}</ref> explained that the series is a multi-generational drama.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/258287/showbiz/luna-blanca-kauna-unahang-multi-generation-series-ng-gma-7/story |title=Luna Blanca, kauna-unahang multi-generation series ng GMA-7 |work=GMA News Online |date=May 15, 2012 |access-date=August 25, 2020 |language=fil}}</ref> It will run for three chapters with a different line up of actors starring in each generation's story. The production is targeting a 25-week run for the series.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/lifestyle/2012/06/05/mothers-stars-225240 |title=The Mothers of the stars |date=June 5, 2012 |access-date=October 10, 2020 |author=Gazo, Betsy |work=SunStar Bacolod |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121230204716/http://www.sunstar.com.ph:80/bacolod/lifestyle/2012/06/05/mothers-stars-225240 |archive-date=December 30, 2012}}</ref>


The producer hired, director [[Dominic Zapata]] to handle the series.<ref>[http://www.ring2win.com/news/Dominic-Zapata.html Latest News and Information on Dominic Zapata] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150603111355/http://www.ring2win.com/news/Dominic-Zapata.html |date=June 3, 2015}}</ref>
Director [[Dominic Zapata]] was hired to direct the series.<ref>[http://www.ring2win.com/news/Dominic-Zapata.html Latest News and Information on Dominic Zapata] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150603111355/http://www.ring2win.com/news/Dominic-Zapata.html |date=June 3, 2015}}</ref>


===Themes===
===Themes===
''Luna Blanca'' consists of three prominent themes: [[Romance film|love]], [[Melodrama|family]] and [[mysticism]]. In the first chapter of the series, the story focused more on family and mysticism. The first three episodes focuses on the ancestry of Rowena, her connection to Luna and Celestina, the mystery behind the sudden loss of her parents [which her grandfather blames on the engkantos], herself being a victim of sexual assault of a supernatural being [black engkanto], and the appearance of Luna's mystical shadow.<ref name=anino /> Luna's mysterious persona is not revealed yet until the end of the first chapter. However, the story eventually develops into realistic drama that tells the sufferings of Rowena's family on raising the twins alone,<ref>{{cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSXCnSfLudk |title=Luna Blanca: Ang panganganak ni Rowena |date=May 24, 2012 |accessdate=October 10, 2020 |publisher=GMANetwork |language=fil |via=YouTube}}</ref> alongside Luna's quest in conquering her mother's love, care, and acceptance despite the discrimination she faces.<ref>{{cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6bjzQzUHv0 |title=Luna Blanca: Luna binigyan ng bulaklak si Rowena |date=June 1, 2012 |accessdate=October 10, 2020 |publisher=GMANetwork |via=YouTube |language=fil}}</ref> The unexpected, tragic death of Lolo Igme<ref>{{cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvL5-wxgU8o |title=Luna Blanca: Ang habilin ni Lolo Igme |date=June 6, 2012 |accessdate=October 10, 2020 |via=YouTube |publisher=GMANetwork |language=fil}}</ref> and the sisters' huge love for each other despite physical differences and ultimately, separation. Camille Prats, who is part of the series' main cast was quoted:
''Luna Blanca'' consists of three prominent themes: [[Romance film|love]], [[Melodrama|family]] and [[mysticism]]. In the first chapter of the series, the story focused more on family and mysticism. The first three episodes focuses on the ancestry of Rowena, her connection to Luna and Celestina, the mystery behind the sudden loss of her parents [which her grandfather blames on the engkantos], herself being a victim of sexual assault of a supernatural being [black engkanto], and the appearance of Luna's mystical shadow.<ref name=anino/> Luna's mysterious persona is not revealed yet until the end of the first chapter. However, the story eventually develops into realistic drama that tells the sufferings of Rowena's family on raising the twins alone,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSXCnSfLudk |title=''Luna Blanca'': Ang panganganak ni Rowena |date=May 24, 2012 |access-date=October 10, 2020 |website=YouTube}}</ref> alongside Luna's quest in conquering her mother's love, care, and acceptance despite the discrimination she faces.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6bjzQzUHv0 |title=''Luna Blanca'': Luna binigyan ng bulaklak si Rowena |date=June 1, 2012 |access-date=October 10, 2020 |website=YouTube |language=fil}}</ref> The unexpected, tragic death of Lolo Igme<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvL5-wxgU8o |title=''Luna Blanca'': Ang habilin ni Lolo Igme |date=June 6, 2012 |access-date=October 10, 2020 |website=[[YouTube]] |language=fil}}</ref> and the sisters' huge love for each other despite physical differences and ultimately, separation. Camille Prats, who is part of the series' main cast was quoted:


{{Quote|"The message of Luna Blanca is not all about social discrimination on the basis of skin color. It is rather the inner conflict, social stigma and the self-inflicted torment that a woman experienced after being raped by a supernatural being or an Engkanto. It was an Engkanto symbolic rape because the series is set within the paradigms of its preceding story, Luna Mystika."|<ref>{{cite news |url=http://ph.omg.yahoo.com/news/camille-enjoys-doing-mommy-roles.html |title=Camille enjoys doing mommy roles |date=May 17, 2012 |access-date=October 10, 2020 |work=Yahoo! OMG! Philippines |author=Valeza, Karen |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120522082537/http://ph.omg.yahoo.com/news/camille-enjoys-doing-mommy-roles.html |archive-date=May 22, 2012}}</ref>}}
{{Quote|"The message of Luna Blanca is not all about social discrimination on the basis of skin color. It is rather the inner conflict, social stigma and the self-inflicted torment that a woman experienced after being raped by a supernatural being or an Engkanto. It was an Engkanto symbolic rape because the series is set within the paradigms of its preceding story, Luna Mystika."|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ph.omg.yahoo.com/news/camille-enjoys-doing-mommy-roles.html |title=Camille enjoys doing mommy roles |date=May 17, 2012 |access-date=October 10, 2020 |website=[[Yahoo!]] OMG Philippines |author=Valeza, Karen |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120522082537/http://ph.omg.yahoo.com/news/camille-enjoys-doing-mommy-roles.html |archive-date=May 22, 2012}}</ref>}}


"The series will eventually develop into a realistic high drama with a social message overriding the mysticism of its prequel", she added.
"The series will eventually develop into a realistic high drama with a social message overriding the mysticism of its prequel", she added.


On the second and third chapter, romance and mysticism became the main core of the story. The "love" aspect takes place when the two protagonists enters their adolescence and young adult years, respectively. The characters Joaquin who was played by [[Kristofer Martin]] and Aki by [[Mark Herras]] in the second and third books serves as love interests (as well as the "intricator"){{clarify|date=May 2020}} of Luna and Blanca. Mystic themes take place when Luna's persona unveils itself alongside the return of her twin shadow Ani,<ref>{{cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vq-rx-rxhxg |title=Luna Blanca: Makaligtas kaya si Blanca at Aki sa poot ni Ani? |date=September 1, 2012 |accessdate=October 10, 2020 |publisher=GMANetwork |via=YouTube |language=fil}}</ref> the human form of Devolas with Diego entering the picture,<ref>{{cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9224hj7mLY |title=Luna Blanca: Diego, nakuha ang loob ni Luna |date=September 20, 2012 |accessdate=October 10, 2020 |via=YouTube |publisher=GMANetwork |language=fil}}</ref> and the transformation of Luna's unnatural appearance to that of a typical morena, as she wished.<ref>{{cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIn28AgZCfU |title=Luna Blanca: Ang hiling ni Luna |date=September 22, 2012 |accessdate=October 10, 2020 |via=YouTube |publisher=GMANetwork |language=fil}}</ref>
On the second and third chapter, romance and mysticism became the main core of the story. The "love" aspect takes place when the two protagonists enters their adolescence and young adult years, respectively. The characters Joaquin who was played by [[Kristofer Martin]] and Aki by [[Mark Herras]] in the second and third books serves as love interests (as well as the "intricator"){{clarify|date=May 2020}} of Luna and Blanca. Mystic themes take place when Luna's persona unveils itself alongside the return of her twin shadow Ani,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vq-rx-rxhxg |title=''Luna Blanca'': Makaligtas kaya si Blanca at Aki sa poot ni Ani? |date=September 1, 2012 |access-date=October 10, 2020 |website=[[YouTube]] |language=fil}}</ref> the human form of Devolas with Diego entering the picture,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9224hj7mLY |title=''Luna Blanca'': Diego, nakuha ang loob ni Luna |date=September 20, 2012 |access-date=October 10, 2020 |website=YouTube |language=fil}}</ref> and the transformation of Luna's unnatural appearance to that of a typical morena, as she wished.<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIn28AgZCfU |title=Luna Blanca: Ang hiling ni Luna |date=September 22, 2012 |access-date=October 10, 2020 |website=YouTube |language=fil}}</ref>


===Casting===
===Casting===
At the series' press conference held on May 15, 2012,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/shows/lunablanca/photos/2012-05-16/790/At-the-Press-Conference-for-Luna-Blanca |title=At the Press Conference for Luna Blanca |date=May 16, 2012 |access-date=October 10, 2020 |work=GMA Entertainment}}</ref> the producer presented six actresses to portray and breathe life to the characters of Luna and Blanca.
At the series' press conference held on May 15, 2012,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/shows/lunablanca/photos/2012-05-16/790/At-the-Press-Conference-for-Luna-Blanca |title=At the Press Conference for ''Luna Blanca'' |date=May 16, 2012 |access-date=October 10, 2020 |website=GMA Network}}</ref> the producer presented six actresses to portray and breathe life to the characters of Luna and Blanca.


Chosen to play the lead roles in the first chapter are child stars Jillian Ward as Luna, and Mona Louise Rey as Blanca. Prior to casting, the two child actresses were popular in their previous hit drama series ''[[Trudis Liit]]'' and ''[[Munting Heredera]]'' respectively. [[Marissa Delgado]], a veteran villainess who plays the children's grandmother in the show, compares Ward and Rey; saying that Ward reminds her of [[Niño Muhlach]] (a well-known mid-70's child star) for being witty, jolly, and restless; Rey on the other hand is described as "sweet, ladylike, and reserved type who flashes a wholesome personality on and off camera.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://mb.com.ph/node/359368/jillian-mona-loui |title=Jillian, Mona Louise Paired In 'Luna Blanca' |date=May 12, 2012 |access-date=July 17, 2012 |work=Manila Bulletin |author=Cuartero, Nestor |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120519113620/http://mb.com.ph/node/359368/jillian-mona-loui |archive-date=May 19, 2012}}</ref>
Chosen to play the lead roles in the first chapter are child stars Jillian Ward as Luna, and Mona Louise Rey as Blanca. Prior to casting, the two child actresses were popular in their previous hit drama series ''[[Trudis Liit]]'' and ''[[Munting Heredera]]'' respectively. [[Marissa Delgado]], a veteran villainess who plays the children's grandmother in the show, compares Ward and Rey; saying that Ward reminds her of [[Niño Muhlach]] (a well-known mid-70's child star) for being witty, jolly, and restless; Rey on the other hand is described as "sweet, ladylike, and reserved type who flashes a wholesome personality on and off camera.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mb.com.ph/node/359368/jillian-mona-loui |title=Jillian, Mona Louise Paired In ''Luna Blanca'' |date=May 12, 2012 |access-date=July 17, 2012 |website=Manila Bulletin |author=Cuartero, Nestor |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120519113620/http://mb.com.ph/node/359368/jillian-mona-loui |archive-date=May 19, 2012}}</ref>


Portraying the teen characters in the second chapter are Barbie Forteza as Blanca and Bea Binene as Luna. Forteza said in one of her interviews that she finds her role very challenging, saying: "It is easier to play the Tweety Pie roles, but not when the role demands control and let your partner in a scene cower in fear and tears."<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.ndb-online.com/060412/feature/feature-luna-blanca-challenge-epic-proportion |title=Feature: Luna Blanca: A Challenge of Epic Proportion |date=June 4, 2012 |access-date=July 17, 2012 |work=Negros Daily Bulletin |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120808222016/http://www.ndb-online.com/060412/feature/feature-luna-blanca-challenge-epic-proportion |archive-date=August 8, 2012}}</ref> Her character who lives in the squatter's area requires her to act like rather rough and boyish. She initially read the script and asked director Dominic Zapata's nod to deliver her lines with her own words. That way, she got to express herself more than just following the script letter by letter. On the other hand, Binene finds the acting task three or four times grueling than her past projects. Aside from the dramatic acting it requires, she has to endure the itchy, hot feeling while her face and body are heavily covered with dark make-up. It usually takes two hours for her fair complexion to turn dark as soot, and makeup artists had to re-touch in every scene due to perspiration and oiliness.<ref>http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=827916&publicationSubCategoryId=70 {{dead link|date=October 2020}}</ref>
Portraying the teen characters in the second chapter are Barbie Forteza as Blanca and Bea Binene as Luna. Forteza said in one of her interviews that she finds her role very challenging, saying: "It is easier to play the Tweety Pie roles, but not when the role demands control and let your partner in a scene cower in fear and tears."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ndb-online.com/060412/feature/feature-luna-blanca-challenge-epic-proportion |title=Feature: ''Luna Blanca'': A Challenge of Epic Proportion |date=June 4, 2012 |access-date=July 17, 2012 |website=Negros Daily Bulletin |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120808222016/http://www.ndb-online.com/060412/feature/feature-luna-blanca-challenge-epic-proportion |archive-date=August 8, 2012}}</ref>


In the first and second chapter, [[Camille Prats]], [[Raymart Santiago]] and [[Chynna Ortaleza]]<ref>{{cite news |last=Llanes |first=Rommel R. |title=Chynna Ortaleza on why her relationship with former actor Railey Valeroso has lasted nine years: "Hindi magulo pag yung isa wala sa showbiz." |url=https://www.pep.ph/news/34160/chynna-ortaleza-on-why-her-relationship-with-former-actor-railey-valeroso-has-lasted-nine-years-hind |access-date=October 10, 2020 |work=PEP.ph |date=May 19, 2012}}</ref> were cast as Rowena, Luis and Divine, respectively, the three prominent characters in the series.
In the first and second chapter, [[Camille Prats]], [[Raymart Santiago]] and [[Chynna Ortaleza]]<ref>{{cite web|author=Llanes, Rommel R. |title=Chynna Ortaleza on why her relationship with former actor Railey Valeroso has lasted nine years: "Hindi magulo pag yung isa wala sa showbiz." |url=https://www.pep.ph/news/34160/chynna-ortaleza-on-why-her-relationship-with-former-actor-railey-valeroso-has-lasted-nine-years-hind |access-date=October 10, 2020 |website=PEP |date=May 19, 2012}}</ref> were cast as Rowena, Luis and Divine, respectively, the three prominent characters in the series.


Although reluctant to play the role for the second chapter, fearing that she might not fit nor be credible enough to be a mother of teenagers, Prats [who's only in her late 20s] accepted the role after producers explained how significant her role was.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php/entertainment/showbiz-news/34329-camille-laughs-off-rumor-about-her-and-sam |title=Camille laughs off rumor about her and Sam |access-date=September 29, 2012 |date=July 20, 2012 |work=Journal Online |language=fil, en |author=Bautista, Mario |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120722043738/http://journal.com.ph/index.php/entertainment/showbiz-news/34329-camille-laughs-off-rumor-about-her-and-sam |archive-date=July 22, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.malaya.com.ph/index.php/entertainment/9294-camille-denies-romance-with-sam-milby |title=Camille denies romance with Sam Milby |date=July 26, 2012 |access-date=September 29, 2012 |author=Bautista, Mario E. |work=Malaya Business Insight |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130416071915/http://www.malaya.com.ph/index.php/entertainment/9294-camille-denies-romance-with-sam-milby |archive-date=April 16, 2013}}</ref>
Although reluctant to play the role for the second chapter, fearing that she might not fit nor be credible enough to be a mother of teenagers, Prats [who's only in her late 20s] accepted the role after producers explained how significant her role was.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php/entertainment/showbiz-news/34329-camille-laughs-off-rumor-about-her-and-sam |title=Camille laughs off rumor about her and Sam |access-date=September 29, 2012 |date=July 20, 2012 |website=Journal Online |language=fil, en |author=Bautista, Mario |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120722043738/http://journal.com.ph/index.php/entertainment/showbiz-news/34329-camille-laughs-off-rumor-about-her-and-sam |archive-date=July 22, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.malaya.com.ph/index.php/entertainment/9294-camille-denies-romance-with-sam-milby |title=Camille denies romance with Sam Milby |date=July 26, 2012 |access-date=September 29, 2012 |author=Bautista, Mario E. |website=Malaya Business Insight |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130416071915/http://www.malaya.com.ph/index.php/entertainment/9294-camille-denies-romance-with-sam-milby |archive-date=April 16, 2013}}</ref>


In the last installment of the series [[Bianca King]] and [[Heart Evangelista]]<ref>{{cite news |last=Garcia |first=Rose |title=Heart Evangelista on real score with Senator Chiz Escudero: "Dating ba 'yan or going out, I'm just confused..." |url=https://www.pep.ph/lifestyle/28251/heart-evangelista-on-real-score-with-senator-chiz-escuderodating-ba-yan-or-going-out-im-just-confuse |access-date=October 10, 2020 |work=PEP.ph |date=September 5, 2012}}</ref> played as the adult Luna and Blanca respectively.
In the last installment of the series [[Bianca King]] and [[Heart Evangelista]]<ref>{{cite web|author=Garcia, Rose |title=Heart Evangelista on real score with Senator Chiz Escudero: "Dating ba 'yan or going out, I'm just confused..." |url=https://www.pep.ph/lifestyle/28251/heart-evangelista-on-real-score-with-senator-chiz-escuderodating-ba-yan-or-going-out-im-just-confuse |access-date=October 10, 2020 |website=PEP |date=September 5, 2012}}</ref> played as the adult Luna and Blanca respectively.


[[Mark Herras]] taken over the role of Joaquin, the love interest of Blanca (Evangelista) and Luna (King),<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php/entertainment/showbiz-news/37240-alessandra-junks-torrid-kissing |title=Alessandra junks torrid kissing |date=September 3, 2012|access-date=September 29, 2012 |author=Miralles, Nitz |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121008000726/http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php/entertainment/showbiz-news/37240-alessandra-junks-torrid-kissing |work=Journal Online |archive-date=October 8, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> while, veteran actors [[Lani Mercado]], [[Christopher de Leon]] and Carmi Martin taking over the now rapidly aged characters of Rowena, Luis and Divine, respectively.<ref>{{cite news |last=Pumaloy |first=Rey |title=Carmi Martin on her search for a partner: "Pinagdaanan ko na yung gumulung-gulong ako, umiyak ako, and everything just to find the right guy." |url=https://www.pep.ph/news/local/35562/carmi-martin-on-her-search-for-a-partner-pinagdaanan-ko-na-yung-gumulung-gulong-ako-umiyak-ako-and-e |access-date=October 11, 2020 |work=PEP.ph |date=September 5, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Rich, nag-i-enjoy sa lalakeng 'di niya karelasyon! |url=http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/sep0512/ent_jb.htm |access-date=October 11, 2020 |work=Abante Online |language=fil |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150208035813/http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/sep0512/ent_jb.htm |archive-date=February 8, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Pumaloy |first=Rey |title=Lani Mercado changes mind about not running for re-election as congresswoman of Cavite; reveals son Jolo Revilla will run for vice governor also of Cavite |url=https://www.pep.ph/news/35570/lani-mercado-changes-mind-about-not-running-for-re-election-as-congresswoman-of-cavite-reveals-son-j |access-date=October 11, 2020 |work=PEP.ph |date=September 6, 2012}}</ref><ref>http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/372316/christopher-de-leon-to-seek-higher-political-post-next-year {{dead link|date=October 2020}}</ref>
[[Mark Herras]] taken over the role of Joaquin, the love interest of Blanca (Evangelista) and Luna (King),<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php/entertainment/showbiz-news/37240-alessandra-junks-torrid-kissing |title=Alessandra junks torrid kissing |date=September 3, 2012 |access-date=September 29, 2012 |author=Miralles, Nitz |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121008000726/http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php/entertainment/showbiz-news/37240-alessandra-junks-torrid-kissing |website=Journal Online |archive-date=October 8, 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref> while, veteran actors [[Lani Mercado]], [[Christopher de Leon]] and Carmi Martin taking over the aged characters of Rowena, Luis and Divine, respectively.<ref>{{cite web|author=Pumaloy, Rey |title=Carmi Martin on her search for a partner: "Pinagdaanan ko na yung gumulung-gulong ako, umiyak ako, and everything just to find the right guy." |url=https://www.pep.ph/news/local/35562/carmi-martin-on-her-search-for-a-partner-pinagdaanan-ko-na-yung-gumulung-gulong-ako-umiyak-ako-and-e |access-date=October 11, 2020 |website=PEP |date=September 5, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Rich, nag-i-enjoy sa lalakeng 'di niya karelasyon! |url=http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/sep0512/ent_jb.htm |access-date=October 11, 2020 |website=Abante Online |language=fil |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150208035813/http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/sep0512/ent_jb.htm |archive-date=February 8, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Pumaloy, Rey |title=Lani Mercado changes mind about not running for re-election as congresswoman of Cavite; reveals son Jolo Revilla will run for vice governor also of Cavite |url=https://www.pep.ph/news/35570/lani-mercado-changes-mind-about-not-running-for-re-election-as-congresswoman-of-cavite-reveals-son-j |access-date=October 11, 2020 |website=PEP |date=September 6, 2012}}</ref>

⚫
==Production==
Principal photography commenced on May 4, 2012.<ref>{{cite web|author=Santiago, Erwin |title=Sa May 2 na ang story conference ng ''Luna Blanca'' ng GMA-7 na tatampukan nina Jillian Ward at Mon |url=https://www.pep.ph/pepalerts/7546/sa-may-2-na-ang-story-conference-ng-emluna-blancaem-ng-gma-7-na-tatampukan-nina-jillian-ward-at-mon |website=PEP |access-date=February 26, 2024 |date=April 30, 2012}}</ref> Filming concluded in October 2012.<ref>{{cite web|title=Behind the Scenes at the Last Taping of ''Luna Blanca'' |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/tv/luna_blanca/939/behind-the-scenes-at/photo |website=GMA Network |access-date=February 26, 2024 |date=October 25, 2012}}</ref>


==Reception==
==Reception==
===Ratings===
===Ratings===
According to [[AGB Nielsen Philippines]]' Mega Manila household television ratings, the pilot episode of ''Luna Blanca'' earned a 26.3% rating.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.pep.ph/news/34193/agb-nielsen-mega-manila-household-ratings-may-18-21-luna-blanca-debuts-strongly-walang-hanggan-still |title=AGB Nielsen Mega Manila Household Ratings (May 18–21): Luna Blanca debuts strongly; Walang Hanggan still on top |author=Santiago, Erwin |date=May 22, 2012 |access-date=March 2, 2018 |work=PEP.ph}}</ref> While the final episode scored a 24% rating.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.pep.ph/news/36232/agb-mega-manila-household-ratings-oct-23-28-walang-hanggan-ends-with-a-big-bang-extra-challenge-debu |title=AGB Mega Manila Household Ratings (Oct. 23-28): Walang Hanggan ends with a big bang; Extra Challenge debuts strongly |author=Santiago, Erwin |date=October 29, 2012 |access-date=March 2, 2018 |work=PEP.ph}}</ref>
According to [[AGB Nielsen Philippines]]' Mega Manila household television ratings, the pilot episode of ''Luna Blanca'' earned a 26.3% rating.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pep.ph/news/local/34193/agb-nielsen-mega-manila-household-ratings-may-18-21-luna-blanca-debuts-strongly-walang-hanggan-still |title=AGB Nielsen Mega Manila Household Ratings (May 18–21): ''Luna Blanca'' debuts strongly; ''Walang Hanggan'' still on top |author=Santiago, Erwin |date=May 22, 2012 |website=PEP |access-date=September 2, 2024}}</ref> While the final episode scored a 24% rating.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pep.ph/news/local/11007/agb-mega-manila-household-ratings-oct-23-28-walang-hanggan-ends-with-a-big-bang-extra-challenge-debu |title=AGB Mega Manila Household Ratings (Oct. 23-28): ''Walang Hanggan'' ends with a big bang; ''Extra Challenge'' debuts strongly |author=Santiago, Erwin |date=October 29, 2012 |website=PEP |access-date=September 2, 2024}}</ref>


===Critical response===
===Critical response===
Alfredo B. Severino of ''Negros Daily Bulletin''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ndb-online.com/index.htm |title=Negros Daily Bulletin |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120709054149/http://www.ndb-online.com/index.htm |archive-date=July 9, 2012}}</ref> said that the show is an "Epic literature in many ways. It was not written in poetic style but the extended narrative, its press release called multi-generational story, and the development of an old folk tale qualifies it to be epic-based." While Jerry Donato of ''[[The Philippine Star]]'' said Jillian Ward and Mona Louise Rey "can touch the viewer's heart and make him shed tears as their adorable characters enter the School of Hard Knocks."<ref>[http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?publicationSubCategoryId=70&articleId=825508 TV's little darlings - The Philippine Star » News » Entertainment] {{dead link|date=October 2020}}</ref>
Alfredo B. Severino of ''Negros Daily Bulletin''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ndb-online.com/index.htm |title=Negros Daily Bulletin |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120709054149/http://www.ndb-online.com/index.htm |archive-date=July 9, 2012}}</ref> said that the show is an "Epic literature in many ways. It was not written in poetic style but the extended narrative, its press release called multi-generational story, and the development of an old folk tale qualifies it to be epic-based."


==Accolades==
==Accolades==
Line 153: Line 177:
| [[Jillian Ward]]
| [[Jillian Ward]]
| {{nom}}
| {{nom}}
| <ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.pep.ph/news/local/35795/pmpc-bares-nominees-for-26th-star-awards-for-tv |title=PMPC bares nominees for 26th Star Awards for TV |date=September 26, 2012 |access-date=May 1, 2020 |work=PEP.ph}}</ref>
| <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pep.ph/news/local/35795/pmpc-bares-nominees-for-26th-star-awards-for-tv |title=PMPC bares nominees for 26th Star Awards for TV |date=September 26, 2012 |access-date=May 1, 2020 |website=PEP}}</ref>
|}
|}


Line 160: Line 184:


==External links==
==External links==
* {{Official site|https://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/tv/luna_blanca}}
* {{Official website|https://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/tv/luna_blanca}}
* {{IMDb title|6867382}}
* {{IMDb title|6867382}}


Line 168: Line 192:
[[Category:GMA Network drama series]]
[[Category:GMA Network drama series]]
[[Category:Philippine fantasy television series]]
[[Category:Philippine fantasy television series]]
[[Category:Television series about sisters]]
[[Category:Television series about twins]]
[[Category:Television shows set in the Philippines]]
[[Category:Television shows set in the Philippines]]

Latest revision as of 04:09, 21 December 2024

Luna Blanca
An image with a blue background, with several stars. The series title is displayed on the center of the image. The logo of GMA Network is displayed on the upper right side of the image.
Title card
GenreFantasy drama
Created by
Developed byKit Villanueva-Langit
Written by
  • Ma. Cristina Velasco
  • Luningning Ribay
  • Marlon Miguel
Directed byDominic Zapata
Creative directorJun Lana
Starring
Theme music composerWilly Cruz and Baby Gil
Opening theme"Sana'y Maghintay ang Walang Hanggan" by Rachelle Ann Go
Country of originPhilippines
Original languageTagalog
No. of episodes115
Production
Executive producerMona Coles Mayuga
Production locations
CinematographyRoman Theodossis
Camera setupMultiple-camera setup
Running time20–38 minutes
Production companyGMA Entertainment TV
Original release
NetworkGMA Network
ReleaseMay 21 (2012-05-21) –
October 26, 2012 (2012-10-26)
Related
Luna Mystika

Luna Blanca is a 2012 Philippine television drama fantasy series broadcast by GMA Network. The series served as a sequel to the 2008 Philippine television series Luna Mystika. Directed by Dominic Zapata, it stars Jillian Ward, Mona Louise Rey, Bea Binene, Barbie Forteza, Bianca King and Heart Evangelista all in the title roles. It premiered on May 21, 2012 on the network's Telebabad line up replacing Biritera. The series concluded on October 26, 2012 with a total of 115 episodes. It was replaced by Temptation of Wife in its timeslot.

The series is streaming online on YouTube.[1]

Cast and characters

[edit]
Cast
An image of Bea Binene.
Bea Binene
An image of Barbie Forteza.
Barbie Forteza
An image of Heart Evangelista.
Heart Evangelista
An image of Lani Mercado.
Lani Mercado
An image of Mark Herras.
Mark Herras
Lead cast
Supporting cast
Guest cast

Development

[edit]

Associate producer, Jonathan Pachica, said that Luna Blanca is a sequel to Luna Mystika,[5] GMA Network's 2008 drama series, which also starred Heart Evangelista. It premiered on November 17, 2008 and concluded on March 6, 2009.[6]

The connection between these two series was presented during Luna Blanca's premiere episode on May 21, 2012, where selected clips from Luna Mystika was shown while Rowena, the character played by Camille Prats, narrating a story to a bunch of children about the Sagrado family and the engkanto-blooded twins Luna and Celestina and how the latter transforms into a monster every time the full moon shines brightly at night who intends to scare the children. Lolo Igme, Rowena's grandfather portrayed by Dante Rivero (who was also part of the prequel as Joaquin Sagrado), came and asked Rowena not to make fun of her origin again. In the story, Rowena is revealed to be the last descendant of Luna Mystika; one thing she does not believe because she thinks that the engkanto and other supernatural creatures are just myth or merely imagination. Her disbelief persists until she encounters a black, smoke-like creature known as the engkanto[7] in the forest who raped her. Rowena's nightmares are far from over when she gives birth to an unusual twin, one with fair skin (Blanca) and the other one with very dark complexions (Luna). Unknown to Rowena, Luna also has a mystical twin shadow aside from Blanca.[8] the same eerie creature first unveiled in Luna Mystika.

On May 2, 2012 at the story conference of the series, Cheryl Ching-Sy, the Senior Program Manager,[9] explained that the series is a multi-generational drama.[10] It ran for three chapters with a different line up of actors starring in each generation's story. The production targeted a 25-week run for the series.[11]

Director Dominic Zapata was hired to direct the series.[12]

Themes

[edit]

Luna Blanca consists of three prominent themes: love, family and mysticism. In the first chapter of the series, the story focused more on family and mysticism. The first three episodes focuses on the ancestry of Rowena, her connection to Luna and Celestina, the mystery behind the sudden loss of her parents [which her grandfather blames on the engkantos], herself being a victim of sexual assault of a supernatural being [black engkanto], and the appearance of Luna's mystical shadow.[8] Luna's mysterious persona is not revealed yet until the end of the first chapter. However, the story eventually develops into realistic drama that tells the sufferings of Rowena's family on raising the twins alone,[13] alongside Luna's quest in conquering her mother's love, care, and acceptance despite the discrimination she faces.[14] The unexpected, tragic death of Lolo Igme[15] and the sisters' huge love for each other despite physical differences and ultimately, separation. Camille Prats, who is part of the series' main cast was quoted:

"The message of Luna Blanca is not all about social discrimination on the basis of skin color. It is rather the inner conflict, social stigma and the self-inflicted torment that a woman experienced after being raped by a supernatural being or an Engkanto. It was an Engkanto symbolic rape because the series is set within the paradigms of its preceding story, Luna Mystika."

— [16]

"The series will eventually develop into a realistic high drama with a social message overriding the mysticism of its prequel", she added.

On the second and third chapter, romance and mysticism became the main core of the story. The "love" aspect takes place when the two protagonists enters their adolescence and young adult years, respectively. The characters Joaquin who was played by Kristofer Martin and Aki by Mark Herras in the second and third books serves as love interests (as well as the "intricator")[clarification needed] of Luna and Blanca. Mystic themes take place when Luna's persona unveils itself alongside the return of her twin shadow Ani,[17] the human form of Devolas with Diego entering the picture,[18] and the transformation of Luna's unnatural appearance to that of a typical morena, as she wished.[19]

Casting

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At the series' press conference held on May 15, 2012,[20] the producer presented six actresses to portray and breathe life to the characters of Luna and Blanca.

Chosen to play the lead roles in the first chapter are child stars Jillian Ward as Luna, and Mona Louise Rey as Blanca. Prior to casting, the two child actresses were popular in their previous hit drama series Trudis Liit and Munting Heredera respectively. Marissa Delgado, a veteran villainess who plays the children's grandmother in the show, compares Ward and Rey; saying that Ward reminds her of Niño Muhlach (a well-known mid-70's child star) for being witty, jolly, and restless; Rey on the other hand is described as "sweet, ladylike, and reserved type who flashes a wholesome personality on and off camera.[21]

Portraying the teen characters in the second chapter are Barbie Forteza as Blanca and Bea Binene as Luna. Forteza said in one of her interviews that she finds her role very challenging, saying: "It is easier to play the Tweety Pie roles, but not when the role demands control and let your partner in a scene cower in fear and tears."[22]

In the first and second chapter, Camille Prats, Raymart Santiago and Chynna Ortaleza[23] were cast as Rowena, Luis and Divine, respectively, the three prominent characters in the series.

Although reluctant to play the role for the second chapter, fearing that she might not fit nor be credible enough to be a mother of teenagers, Prats [who's only in her late 20s] accepted the role after producers explained how significant her role was.[24][25]

In the last installment of the series Bianca King and Heart Evangelista[26] played as the adult Luna and Blanca respectively.

Mark Herras taken over the role of Joaquin, the love interest of Blanca (Evangelista) and Luna (King),[27] while, veteran actors Lani Mercado, Christopher de Leon and Carmi Martin taking over the aged characters of Rowena, Luis and Divine, respectively.[28][29][30]

Production

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Principal photography commenced on May 4, 2012.[31] Filming concluded in October 2012.[32]

Reception

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Ratings

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According to AGB Nielsen Philippines' Mega Manila household television ratings, the pilot episode of Luna Blanca earned a 26.3% rating.[33] While the final episode scored a 24% rating.[34]

Critical response

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Alfredo B. Severino of Negros Daily Bulletin[35] said that the show is an "Epic literature in many ways. It was not written in poetic style but the extended narrative, its press release called multi-generational story, and the development of an old folk tale qualifies it to be epic-based."

Accolades

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Accolades received by Luna Blanca
Year Awards Category Recipient Result Ref.
2012 26th PMPC Star Awards for Television Best Child Performer Jillian Ward Nominated [36]

References

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  1. ^ "Luna Blanca (Stream Together) - YouTube". YouTube. Retrieved May 7, 2024.
  2. ^ Mendoza, Ruel J. (July 5, 2012). "Kristoffer Martin switches loveteam partner from Joyce Ching to Bea Binene". PEP. Retrieved August 25, 2020.
  3. ^ Mendoza, Ruel J. (July 5, 2012). "Derrick Monasterio is Barbie Forteza's leading man in Luna Blanca". PEP. Retrieved August 25, 2020.
  4. ^ Tabanera, Lily Grace. "Here's Your Complete Guide To Yassi Pressman's TV Shows". Cosmopolitan. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
  5. ^ "Childstars Jillian Ward and Mona Louise Rey topbill Luna Blanca". Filipino Journal. January 23, 2013. Retrieved August 25, 2020.
  6. ^ "GMANetwork.com - Entertainment - Home of Kapuso shows and stars". GMA Network. Archived from the original on September 20, 2016.
  7. ^ "Luna Blanca: Luis, sinugod ang engkanto". YouTube (in Filipino). May 24, 2012. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
  8. ^ a b "Luna Blanca: Luna tinulungan ng isang anino". YouTube (in Filipino). May 30, 2012. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
  9. ^ "Sa May 2 na ang story conference ng Luna Blanca ng GMA-7 na tatampu". April 30, 2012. Archived from the original on January 30, 2013.
  10. ^ "Luna Blanca, kauna-unahang multi-generation series ng GMA-7". GMA Network (in Filipino). May 15, 2012. Retrieved August 25, 2020.
  11. ^ Gazo, Betsy (June 5, 2012). "The Mothers of the stars". SunStar Bacolod. Archived from the original on December 30, 2012. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
  12. ^ Latest News and Information on Dominic Zapata Archived June 3, 2015, at the Wayback Machine
  13. ^ "Luna Blanca: Ang panganganak ni Rowena". YouTube. May 24, 2012. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
  14. ^ "Luna Blanca: Luna binigyan ng bulaklak si Rowena". YouTube (in Filipino). June 1, 2012. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
  15. ^ "Luna Blanca: Ang habilin ni Lolo Igme". YouTube (in Filipino). June 6, 2012. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
  16. ^ Valeza, Karen (May 17, 2012). "Camille enjoys doing mommy roles". Yahoo! OMG Philippines. Archived from the original on May 22, 2012. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
  17. ^ "Luna Blanca: Makaligtas kaya si Blanca at Aki sa poot ni Ani?". YouTube (in Filipino). September 1, 2012. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
  18. ^ "Luna Blanca: Diego, nakuha ang loob ni Luna". YouTube (in Filipino). September 20, 2012. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
  19. ^ Luna Blanca: Ang hiling ni Luna. YouTube (in Filipino). September 22, 2012. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
  20. ^ "At the Press Conference for Luna Blanca". GMA Network. May 16, 2012. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
  21. ^ Cuartero, Nestor (May 12, 2012). "Jillian, Mona Louise Paired In Luna Blanca". Manila Bulletin. Archived from the original on May 19, 2012. Retrieved July 17, 2012.
  22. ^ "Feature: Luna Blanca: A Challenge of Epic Proportion". Negros Daily Bulletin. June 4, 2012. Archived from the original on August 8, 2012. Retrieved July 17, 2012.
  23. ^ Llanes, Rommel R. (May 19, 2012). "Chynna Ortaleza on why her relationship with former actor Railey Valeroso has lasted nine years: "Hindi magulo pag yung isa wala sa showbiz."". PEP. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
  24. ^ Bautista, Mario (July 20, 2012). "Camille laughs off rumor about her and Sam". Journal Online (in Filipino and English). Archived from the original on July 22, 2012. Retrieved September 29, 2012.
  25. ^ Bautista, Mario E. (July 26, 2012). "Camille denies romance with Sam Milby". Malaya Business Insight. Archived from the original on April 16, 2013. Retrieved September 29, 2012.
  26. ^ Garcia, Rose (September 5, 2012). "Heart Evangelista on real score with Senator Chiz Escudero: "Dating ba 'yan or going out, I'm just confused..."". PEP. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
  27. ^ Miralles, Nitz (September 3, 2012). "Alessandra junks torrid kissing". Journal Online. Archived from the original on October 8, 2012. Retrieved September 29, 2012.
  28. ^ Pumaloy, Rey (September 5, 2012). "Carmi Martin on her search for a partner: "Pinagdaanan ko na yung gumulung-gulong ako, umiyak ako, and everything just to find the right guy."". PEP. Retrieved October 11, 2020.
  29. ^ "Rich, nag-i-enjoy sa lalakeng 'di niya karelasyon!". Abante Online (in Filipino). Archived from the original on February 8, 2015. Retrieved October 11, 2020.
  30. ^ Pumaloy, Rey (September 6, 2012). "Lani Mercado changes mind about not running for re-election as congresswoman of Cavite; reveals son Jolo Revilla will run for vice governor also of Cavite". PEP. Retrieved October 11, 2020.
  31. ^ Santiago, Erwin (April 30, 2012). "Sa May 2 na ang story conference ng Luna Blanca ng GMA-7 na tatampukan nina Jillian Ward at Mon". PEP. Retrieved February 26, 2024.
  32. ^ "Behind the Scenes at the Last Taping of Luna Blanca". GMA Network. October 25, 2012. Retrieved February 26, 2024.
  33. ^ Santiago, Erwin (May 22, 2012). "AGB Nielsen Mega Manila Household Ratings (May 18–21): Luna Blanca debuts strongly; Walang Hanggan still on top". PEP. Retrieved September 2, 2024.
  34. ^ Santiago, Erwin (October 29, 2012). "AGB Mega Manila Household Ratings (Oct. 23-28): Walang Hanggan ends with a big bang; Extra Challenge debuts strongly". PEP. Retrieved September 2, 2024.
  35. ^ "Negros Daily Bulletin". Archived from the original on July 9, 2012.
  36. ^ "PMPC bares nominees for 26th Star Awards for TV". PEP. September 26, 2012. Retrieved May 1, 2020.
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