‘Pangako Sa ‘Yo’ gets off to a compelling start

PANGANIBAN. Attention-calling portrayal.

Much of the time, new drama series that have been extravagantly and excessively promoted have turned out to be disappointments. Happily, “Pangako Sa ‘Yo” didn’t disappoint when it opened last Monday. As promised, it looked and felt more like a movie than a constricted TV series.

Even better, it was brisk in the way it unfolded its central conflict, which involved two women who both loved the same man, the rich and handsome scion played by Ian Veneracion.

It’s impressive to see all of these developments in just the series’ initial telecast, and we hope the show can keep the tempo up.

All of the leads did well in the first telecast, giving viewers the feeling that they’re in good, thespic hands. The more compelling and attention-calling portrayal was turned in by Angelica Panganiban as Claudia, serving notice that her “colorful” character will be one of the show’s continuing attractions from here on in.

This is not to say, however, that Jodi Sta. Maria will be playing second-fiddle. Her character may not be as “saucy” as Angelica’s, but she still commands interest and attention.

As for the younger pair played by Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo, we presume that, like Romeo and Juliet, they come from the opposing families involved—so, expect additional conflicts and fireworks from them, as well!