Dannyka Manangan

ON THIS DAY: As veteran star Caridad Sanchez celebrates 92nd birthday, here's a look back on her most memorable roles

Article (news)

Nikka Avegail Sabio

Push Team

<p>Today, August 1, veteran actress Caridad Sanchez marks her 92nd birthday—a milestone in a life filled with decades of unforgettable performances that have touched the hearts of Filipino viewers.</p><p> Though she has long retired from the entertainment industry, Caridad remains etched in the collective memory of many as the quintessential &quot;Lola&quot; (grandmother) of Philippine television. Her warm portrayals, sage wisdom, and undeniable screen presence made her one of the most beloved character actresses in the country.</p><p> As she celebrates another year of a life well-lived, let’s look back on some of her most memorable roles that made her as a true icon of Philippine showbiz.</p><div><strong> </strong></div><div><strong>Lola Juling of <em>Tabing Ilog</em></strong></div><div><strong></strong><br/></div><p>In the ABS-CBN teen drama <em>Tabing Ilog</em>, Caridad played Lola Juling, the grandmother of Rovic Mercado (portrayed by John Lloyd Cruz). Her scenes with Rovic were often tender and emotional, offering heartfelt advice and unconditional support.</p><p>In an episode of <em>Magandang Buhay,</em> John Lloyd received a touching message from Caridad, who expressed how proud she was of him after all these years.</p><div> </div><div><strong></strong><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QJ0C4JRKF3g" title="Jeepney TV: John Lloyd Cruz and Caridad Sanchez in Tabing Ilog" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><strong></strong></div><div><strong> </strong></div><div><strong>Aling Cleotilde De Villa of Saan Ka Man Naroroon</strong></div><div><br/></div><p>In the classic series <em>Saan Ka Man Naroroo</em>n, Caridad portrayed Aling Cleotilde, the foster mother of Rosario (played by Claudine Barretto). Alongside her on-screen husband, she lovingly raised Rosario after finding her washed ashore. Though she hid the truth about Rosario’s origins, Aling Cleotilde stood by her daughter’s dream of becoming a singer.</p><div> </div><div><strong></strong> <iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3ijOgFLZAuQ" title="Saan Ka Man Naroroon Full Episode 7 | ABS CBN Classics" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><strong></strong></div><div><strong> </strong></div><div><strong>Choleng of<em> Sana&#x27;y Wala Nang Wakas</em></strong></div><div><br/></div><p>Caridad portrayed Choleng, the mother of Anton Garcia (Joel Torre) and protective grandmother of Ara (Kristine Hermosa). Her strong yet nurturing character added emotional depth to this well-loved series.</p><div> </div><div><strong></strong> <iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Dm45e0VsrbI" title="Sana&#x27;y Wala Nang Wakas | Episode 03" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><strong></strong></div><div><strong> </strong></div><div><strong>Nena of <em>Maalaala Mo Kaya: The Movie</em></strong></div><div><br/></div><p>One of her most acclaimed performances came as Nena in <em>Maalaala Mo Kaya: The Movie</em>, a film adaptation of the beloved drama anthology. Her portrayal earned her the FAMAS Best Supporting Actress award. The movie was based on the episode “Dede Bote,” inspired by the real-life story of an ordinary Filipino whose letter was featured on the show.</p><div> </div><div><strong></strong> <iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cX9CLm2SA0o" title="‘Maalaala Mo Kaya: The Movie’ FULL MOVIE (Digitally Restored) | Richard Gomez, Aiko Melendez" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><strong></strong></div><div><strong> </strong></div><div><strong>Nay Choleng Kabisote of <em>Enteng Kabisote 4: Okay Ka, Fairy Ko... The Beginning of the Legend</em></strong></div><div><br/></div><p>Caridad also showcased her comedic flair in the fantasy-comedy film<em> Enteng Kabisote 4.</em> She played Nay Choleng, the cousin of Enteng’s father, who welcomes the family to the Kabisote beach resort. Her witty exchanges and participation in the whimsical world of the movie proved her versatility as an actress.</p><div> </div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:560px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1754028433481Caridad Sanchez.png" style="width:600px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/><span class="fr-inner">Image Credit: OctoArts Films YouTube </span></span></span></div><p>From dramas to comedies and fantasy adventures, Caridad Sanchez has shown her range across generations of storytelling. Her characters may have been maternal and familiar, but it was her genuine warmth and conviction that made every role unforgettable.</p><div> </div>

<p>Beloved television and film ‘Lola’ Caridad Sanchez celebrates her 92nd birthday today, August 1.</p>

Beloved television and film ‘Lola’ Caridad Sanchez celebrates her 92nd birthday today, August 1.