“Pepito Manaloto” marks 16 years on air, with Michael V highlighting its relatable, family-centered storytelling and lasting appeal to Filipino viewers.
The biggest reason behind the enduring success of “Pepito Manaloto” is its ability to remain wholesome while tackling issues that resonate with viewers, according to its creator and lead star Michael V.
“Consciously, maingat talaga kami and wholesome kasi ang show, and dapat ang mga topics na na-discuss mo and the way you deliver your joke dapat wholesome din talaga,” he told radar Entertainment and a group of showbiz scribes during a recent media gathering.
While maintaining a family-friendly approach, Michael V. noted that “Pepito Manaloto” has never shied away from discussing topics that are often considered sensitive or even taboo for sitcoms.
“Pero may tigas rin ng ulo ang show na ‘to. Madalas namin tina-tackle iyong minsan taboo sa mga sitcoms, kaya minsan napapansin n’yo siya nabibigyan ng award dahil doon sa pagiging bold and sa ‘pag tackle ng mga bagay.”
He explained that the show’s writers and creative team carefully navigate difficult subjects without crossing the line, allowing them to address relevant issues in a way that remains accessible to viewers.
“Kasi iyong creative group, we’re like walking on a fine line but we’re not crossing it. Parang ang nangyari sa amin, ‘yong creative group ng ‘Pepito’ is almost the same group ng ‘Bubble Gang’ na mas malala kaya parang walk in the park itong ‘Pepito,’ ‘pag dating sa mga sensitive topic, although hindi namin iniiwasan, we just handle it differently.”
Beyond its humor, “Pepito Manaloto” has earned praise for storylines that reflect real-life experiences and spark conversations among Filipino families. For Michael V., the show’s focus on family has been one of its strongest and most relatable elements.
“Basic structure kasi iyan (family), so, lahat naman ng kilala natin may pamilya, it doesn’t matter kung wala siyang mga anak, mayroon naman silang mga magulang at mga kapatid at kahit mga orphans may pamilya, so kapag na tackle o tungkol sa pamilya makaka relate talaga lahat.”
He added that years of experience have also helped the production team become more confident and responsible in handling sensitive topics.
“Sa tagal na rin siguro ng show sa ere, natutunan na ng grupo na mag handle ng sensitive topics so hindi na kami bara-bara na bumabaril sa dilim and alam na namin ang target namin.”
Michael V. also shared that the sitcom occasionally incorporates political and social themes, though often through subtle references and familiar situations that viewers can easily recognize.
“Nag re-reenact kami ng scenes na napapanood namin sa Senado, at ginagawa namin sa ‘Pepito’ even iyong mga famous lines, famous actions na ginagawa ng iba’t ibang characters, although mas subtle and mas approachable siya.”
After 16 years on television, “Pepito Manaloto” continues to prove that stories rooted in family, community, and everyday Filipino experiences can stand the test of time. Through relatable characters, timely themes, and a careful balance of comedy and social commentary, the sitcom remains one of the country’s most enduring and beloved programs.
As the cast and crew celebrate another milestone, “Pepito Manaloto: Tuloy ang Kuwento” continues to air every Saturday at 7:15 PM on GMA Network, Kapuso Stream, and the YouLOL YouTube channel.
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