If you’ve ever daydreamed about stepping back in time, Filipino period drama series might be your perfect binge-worthy escape. These shows offer more than just historical facts—they let you experience the sights, sounds, and emotions of the past, all wrapped up in dramatic twists and turns. From the days of Spanish colonization to the fight for independence, these period dramas make history feel like you’re living it.
Ready to journey through time? Here’s a list of some of the most compelling Filipino period drama series that are worth adding to your watchlist!
What’s Inside
1. Pulang Araw
If you’re into war dramas mixed with historical grit and romance, you should definitely watch Pulang Araw. Featuring a stellar cast including Barbie Forteza, Sanya Lopez, Alden Richards, David Licauco, and Dennis Trillo, this series brings to life the dramatic events of World War II during the Japanese Occupation. It captures the intense moments and personal stories of bravery, loss, and resilience as the Philippines faced immense challenges.
2. Maria Clara at Ibarra
Imagine waking up inside a history book—literally. That’s the premise of Maria Clara at Ibarra, where Barbie Forteza’s character, Klay, a modern-day nursing student, is magically transported into the world of Jose Rizal’s novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. Alongside Julie Anne San Jose as Maria Clara, Dennis Trillo as Crisostomo Ibarra, and David Licauco as Fidel, Klay navigates the challenges of colonial Philippines while bringing her 21st-century sass to the table.
Not only was Maria Clara at Ibarra a massive hit when it aired on GMA Network—trending almost every night—but it also topped the charts as the most-viewed program on Netflix Philippines when it hit the platform. The show masterfully mixes history, romance, and humor, making it both educational and super fun to watch. Plus, you can’t help but cheer for Klay as she shakes things up in the past with her witty lines and modern mindset.
3. Ilustrado
Starring Alden Richards, Kylie Padilla, and Eula Valdez, Ilustrado follows the life of Jose Rizal, the Philippines’ national hero, from his childhood to his days as a writer and revolutionary. The series delves into his experiences abroad, his writings that sparked revolutionary ideas, and his role in inspiring the Filipino people to fight for independence.
What makes Ilustrado stand out is how it portrays Rizal not just as a hero but as a human being—with hopes, struggles, and personal conflicts. You get to see how Rizal’s ideals were shaped by his life experiences, and how those ideas ignited a nation.
4. Amaya
What do you get when you combine epic battle scenes with the rich culture of pre-colonial Philippines? Amaya! Starring Marian Rivera, Sid Lucero, and Mikael Daez, this series stands out for its exploration of the pre-Hispanic era—a period rarely depicted in Filipino media. The story centers around Amaya, a warrior princess on a quest for vengeance after her father’s death, navigating a world of love, betrayal, and tribal politics along the way.
Not only does Amaya showcase the traditions and beliefs of early Filipinos, but it also highlights strong female leadership in a time when warriors were predominantly male. The show paints an incredible picture of what life might have been like before the Spanish arrived.
5. Mga Lihim ni Urduja
For a mix of history and fantasy, Ang Mga Lihim ni Urduja is a must-watch. Starring Kylie Padilla, Gabbi Garcia, Michelle Dee, and Sanya Lopez, this series is inspired by actual female historical figures, particularly the legendary warrior queen, Urduja. The story combines pre-colonial history with modern-day elements, centering around ancient gemstone artifacts that carry secrets from the past.
The plot follows two women, portrayed by Kylie Padilla and Gabbi Garcia who unravel the mysteries of these powerful gemstones and connect with the warrior queen and her companions from ancient times. Through this connection, the show highlights the bravery and resilience of these female figures across generations.
6. Katipunan
If you’re curious about the revolution from Andres Bonifacio’s perspective, Katipunan is the show for you. Sid Lucero stars as Bonifacio, with Glaiza de Castro and Benjamin Alves rounding out the cast. This series dives into Bonifacio’s journey as the “Father of the Philippine Revolution” and the founding of the secret revolutionary group, Katipunan.
The show brings to life the struggles of the Katipuneros—everyday Filipinos who fought for freedom despite the odds. With a mix of action, romance, and political drama, Katipunan makes the revolution feel more personal and relatable.
Filipino period dramas don’t just teach history—they make you feel like you’re living it. These shows blend action, emotion, and real historical events, making them both educational and entertaining. Whether you’re a die-hard history fan or just looking for a good story, these series offer a little bit of everything.
