20 Classic Filipino Movies with TV Series Remakes

Filipino cinema has a rich history of producing memorable films that have captivated audiences for generations. Some of these classic movies have been so beloved that they were given new life as television series. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of these iconic Filipino movies that found a second wind on the small screen. Get ready to dive into the world of classic Filipino movies with TV series remakes!

What’s Inside

1. Ang Probinsyano

Ang Probinsyano, originally released in 1996, starred Fernando Poe Jr. as Cardo Dalisay, a dedicated police officer who fights crime and corruption. The film became iconic for its action-packed sequences and strong moral messages.

In 2015, ABS-CBN launched a TV series remake with the title, FPJ’s: Ang Probinsyano with Coco Martin playing the role of Cardo. The series has been highly successful, becoming the longest running action drama series on Philippine TV. It expanded the original storyline, introducing new characters and plots that kept viewers hooked.

2. Kampanerang Kuba

Kampanerang Kuba, a story by Pablo S. Gomez, is a fantasy-drama film released in 1974, starring Vilma Santos as a hunchbacked bell ringer who undergoes a miraculous transformation. The story is a blend of romance, fantasy, and drama, making it a beloved classic.

In 2005, the story was adapted into a TV series with Anne Curtis in the lead role. The remake was a musical fanta-serye, incorporating modern elements and special effects to bring the magical aspects of the story to life. It was well-received for its engaging narrative and strong performances.

3. Panday

Based on the popular comic book by Carlo J. Caparas, Panday first hit the big screen in 1980 with Fernando Poe Jr. as the lead character, producer, and director. The story centers on Flavio, a blacksmith-turned-hero who battles evil forces with his magical sword. The film is a cornerstone of Filipino action-fantasy cinema. In 2009, GMA Films released a film remake of Panday, starring Bong Revilla as Flavio, and in 2017, another film remake of Panday was released with Coco Martin as the lead character and Jake Cuenca as the antagonist.

The TV series remake aired in 2005 with Jericho Rosales taking on the lead role of Tristan or Panday alongside Heart Evangelista as Eden. The series stayed true to the essence of the original film while updating the visuals and story to appeal to modern audiences. It was a major hit, combining action, fantasy, and drama in a compelling narrative. TV5 aired a TV remake of Panday in 2016, starring Richard Gutierrez.

4. Patayin Sa Sindak Si Barbara

ABS-CBN Film Restoration: Patayin Sa Sindak Si Barbara Teaser Trailer

Patayin Sa Sindak Si Barbara, released in 1974, is a horror film starring Susan Roces. The movie revolves around Barbara, who faces supernatural occurrences linked to her sister’s tragic death. It is a classic Filipino horror film known for its chilling atmosphere and gripping storyline, resulting in a film remake in 1995 directed by Chito Roño, starring Lorna Tolentino and Dawn Zulueta.

The story was remade into a TV series in 2008, starring Kris Aquino, Jodi Sta. Maria, and Albert Martinez. The series expanded on the original film’s plot, adding more depth to the characters and their backstories. It successfully brought the classic horror story to a new generation, maintaining the eerie tone that made the original a hit.

5. Bituing Walang Ningning

Bituing Walang Ningning, released in 1985, is a musical drama film starring Sharon Cuneta and Cherie Gil. The story follows Dorina, a fan-turned-singer, and her rivalry with the established diva Lavinia. The film is known for its memorable songs, especially the iconic line “You’re nothing but a second-rate, trying hard copycat!”

In 2006, ABS-CBN adapted the movie into a TV series with Sarah Geronimo and Angelika Dela Cruz in the lead roles. The remake retained the film’s core story while adding new characters and subplots. It was well-received, with fans appreciating the modern take on the classic rivalry.

6. Palimos ng Pag-ibig

Released in 1986, Palimos ng Pag-ibig is a gripping drama film starring Vilma Santos, Dina Bonnevie, and Edu Manzano. This film delves into the intricacies of a tangled love triangle, examining profound themes like love, betrayal, and sacrifice. It follows the tumultuous journey of a woman who becomes deeply involved in intense and challenging relationships, ultimately confronting her own principles and emotional strength.

The film was remade into a TV series in 2007, featuring Kristine Hermosa, Rica Peralejo, and Diether Ocampo. The series delved deeper into the emotional and psychological aspects of the characters, providing a more nuanced exploration of the story’s themes. It resonated with audiences and became a notable remake in Philippine television.

7. Galema: Anak ni Zuma

Galema: Anak ni Zuma is loosely based on a comic book created by Jim Fernandez. In 1987, the fantasy horror comic book story was made into a film. The story centers on Galema, the daughter of Zuma, a snake god, and her struggles with her unique heritage.

In 2013, ABS-CBN adapted the movie into a TV series starring Andi Eigenmann. The remake expanded on Galema’s story, exploring her relationships and the challenges she faces as she tries to lead a normal life while dealing with her supernatural abilities. The series was praised for its imaginative storyline and visual effects.

8. Kokey

Starring Carlo Aquino, Kokey, was released in 1997. It’s a family-friendly science fiction film about an alien who crash-lands on Earth and befriends a young boy. The movie combines humor, adventure, and heartwarming moments, making it a beloved classic among Filipino audiences.

The story was brought to television in 2007, with a series that stayed true to the spirit of the original movie. The TV series expanded on Kokey’s adventures, introducing new characters and subplots that added depth to the story. It was well-received, especially by younger viewers who enjoyed the mix of comedy and fantasy.

9. Katorse

Katorse, released in 1980, is a coming-of-age drama film starring Dina Bonnevie. The story revolves around a young girl who experiences the challenges of adolescence and early motherhood. The film was notable for its mature themes and powerful performances.

ABS-CBN adapted Katorse into a TV series in 2009, featuring Erich Gonzales in the lead role. The remake modernized the original narrative to address contemporary teenage issues, yet retained the essence of the original film. This updated approach was praised for its sensitive handling of complex themes, striking a chord with a new generation of viewers.

10. Natutulog Ba Ang Diyos?

Natutulog Ba Ang Diyos? released in 1988, is a drama film starring Lorna Tolentino, Ricky Davao, and Gary Valenciano. The story revolves around three individuals entangled in a complex love triangle and explores themes of faith, forgiveness, and redemption.

The film was remade into a TV series in 2007, starring Roxanne Guinoo, Dina Bonnevie, Jake Cuenca, and Joross Gamboa. The series delved deeper into the emotional and psychological aspects of the characters, providing a more nuanced exploration of the story’s themes. It resonated with audiences and became a notable remake in Philippine television.

11. Palos

Palos, released in 1961, is an action-packed film starring Bernard Bonnin. The story follows the life of Palos, a master of disguise and skilled thief, who embarks on various adventures and heists.

The film was remade into a TV series in 2008, starring Cesar Montano and Jake Cuenca. The series retained the essence of the original movie while incorporating modern elements and advanced special effects. It was well-received for its thrilling plot and engaging narrative.

12. Kambal Sa Uma

Kambal Sa Uma, released in 1979, is a fantasy drama film starring Rio Locsin. The story revolves around twin sisters who are half-human and half-rat, dealing with their unique circumstances and the challenges they face.

The film was remade into a TV series in 2009, starring Melissa Ricks and Shaina Magdayao. The series expanded on the original story, providing a deeper exploration of the characters and their struggles. It was praised for its imaginative storyline and strong performances.

13. Pieta

Pieta, released in 1983, is a drama film starring Ace Vergel and Charito Solis. The story follows a mother and her son, exploring themes of revenge, redemption, and familial love. The film is known for its intense drama and powerful performances.

In 2008, the movie was adapted into a TV series starring Cherie Gil and Ryan Agoncillo. The series expanded on the original film’s plot, delving deeper into the characters’ backstories and motivations. It was well-received for its emotional depth and compelling storytelling.

14. Nagsimula Sa Puso

Nagsimula Sa Puso, released in 1990, is a drama film starring Hilda Koronel, Richard Gomez, Cherie Gil, and Jay Ilagan. The story revolves around a professor who falls in love with her student, exploring themes of forbidden love and societal expectations.

In 2009, ABS-CBN adapted the film into a TV series starring Maja Salvador and Coco Martin. The series updated the original story to reflect contemporary issues, while still capturing the essence of the original film. It was praised for its sensitive handling of complex themes and resonated with a new generation of viewers. Nagsimula Sa Puso was also Maja Salvador’s first lead role.

15. Eva Fonda

Eva Fonda, released in 1976, is a drama film starring Alma Moreno. The story follows Eva, a young woman who experiences a series of tragic events and fights to reclaim her life and dignity.

In 2008, ABS-CBN adapted the film into a TV series starring Cristine Reyes. The series delved deeper into Eva’s story, providing a more nuanced exploration of her struggles and triumphs. It was well-received for its strong performances and compelling narrative.

16. Sabel

Sabel, released in 1981, is a drama film starring Rio Locsin. The story follows Sabel, a woman who deals with the complexities of love and societal judgment. The film is noted for its intense drama and strong performances.

Photo Source: PEP.ph

In 2010, ABS-CBN remade Sabel into a TV series starring Jessy Mendiola, AJ Perez, and Joseph Marco. The series expanded on Sabel’s story, providing more depth to her character and exploring the modern issues she faces. The remake was praised for its updated narrative and engaging performances.

17. Nasaan Ka Nang Kailangan Kita?

Nasaan Ka Nang Kailangan Kita? is a drama film released in 1986, starring Susan Roces, Hilda Koronel, Snooky Serna, Janice de Belen, Aga Muhlach, Richard Gomez, and Eddie Garcia. The story revolves around a young woman who faces life’s challenges while searching for her lost love.

The film was remade into a TV series in 2015, starring Vina Morales, Denise Laurel, and Jane Oineza. The series provided a contemporary take on the original story, exploring modern themes and adding new characters. It resonated with both old fans and new viewers.

18. Underage

Underage, released in 1980, is a drama film starring Snooky Serna, Maricel Soriano, and Dina Bonnevie. The story follows three sisters who navigate the trials of adolescence, love, and familial expectations.

The film was adapted into a TV series in 2009, starring Lauren Young, Empress Schuck, and Melissa Ricks. The remake updated the story to reflect contemporary issues faced by teenagers, providing a more relatable narrative for modern audiences. It was well-received for its engaging storyline and strong performances. That’s why in 2023, GMA Network also released a TV series remake with a modern take of the classic film, starring Lexi Gonzales, Elijah Alejo, and Hailey Mendes.

19. Mga Anghel Na Walang Langit

Written and produced by Fernando Poe Jr., Mga Anghel Na Walang Langit is drama film released in 1970. The story follows the lives of street children who form a bond as they navigate through the harsh realities of life. The film is known for its heartwarming story and powerful performances.

In 2005, the film was adapted into a TV series that expanded on the original story, providing more depth to the characters and their struggles. The series was praised for its sensitive portrayal of social issues and its compelling narrative.

20. Mundo Man ay Magunaw

Mundo Man ay Magunaw, released in 1990, is a drama film starring Susan Roces and Sheryl Cruz. The story revolves around a mother and her daughter who face various trials and tribulations in their quest for a better life.

In 2012, the film was remade into a TV series starring Eula Valdez, Empress Schuck, Nikki Gil, and Ejay Falcon. The series provided a modern take on the original story, exploring contemporary issues while retaining the core themes of the film. It was well-received for its engaging narrative and strong performances.

The trend of remaking classic Filipino movies into TV series is more than just a nostalgic trip; it’s a way to reintroduce beloved stories to new audiences, explore deeper narratives, and modernize timeless tales. Whether you’re a fan of the original films or new to these stories, there’s something magical about seeing these classics come to life on the small screen.