An Interview with Marian & Mark Continued
GMA’s confidence in her is so absolute that she even has another show, this time a comedy starring opposite the Philippines’ pound for pound boxing champion, Manny Pacquiao. One would question whether she even has time for anything else aside from work. “To be honest, my bonding time lately with family and friends is very limited. I tape Monday-Wednesday-Friday for Darna and then every Thursday for Show Me Da Manny. So whenever possible, they visit me. My loved ones understand that the opportunities that I have right now only come once in a lifetime. The important thing is that we communicate constantly.”
Now that Darna is airing on GMA Pinoy TV through DIRECTV, Marian’s fan base has grown beyond Philippine shores. “I'm thankful that even if they (the Filipino people) are far from home, they continue to support Philippine performers and shows. Also, I'm grateful that even in my own small way, being an actress, I am able to make so many people happy.” Even her leading man on the program, Mark Anthony Fernandez, is amazed at the reception they are receiving from fans. “It warms my heart to know that Pinoys abroad love our show. I'm thankful that they haven't lost the side of them that's so Pinoy.” Marian agrees, “That's why I believe they will enjoy Darna, because Darna is truly Pinoy.” You can take the Filipino out of the Philippines, but in his heart and on a daily basis, he will look for what reminds him of home.
Being the son of Philippine cinema legends Rudy Fernandez and Alma Moreno, Mark Anthony understands the relevance of a sense of history. Being in a program such as Darna puts him in a position to impart that value to his fans, especially those who are far away from the Philippines. Even they are entitled to know about the comic lore that is integral to our culture. “I want to tell them that Darna is a big part of Pinoy culture, that she has inspired people and made so many viewers happy…I think it's important for them to watch Pinoy shows and to support them because these shows are part of Pinoy culture. And also so that they can appreciate Filipino talent even more.”
While Mark Anthony’s role on the program is to be by Marian’s side, she in turn her takes multiple responsibilities to heart. Putting on the Darna costume is only the first step. Knowing now that she can bring the flavor of the Philippines to avid viewers abroad, she is even more determined to hone her craft and be worthy of her fans’ adoration. “I hope you will always support me and I hope to continue, in my own small way, to bring happiness to your hearts.”
It is apparent that Marian has her priorities in order, and perhaps because of her work ethic and perseverance, there is no question that like Darna, she is bound to soar to greater heights.