'Maria Clara at Ibarra' trends as pilot episode airs; Barbie Forteza shines as Klay

"Maria Clara at Ibarra" claimed the top spot on Philippine Twitter's trending list as its pilot episode aired on Monday.

Netizens lauded the acting of Julie Anne San Jose (Maria Clara) and Barbie Forteza (Klay), who excellently delivered in their heavy drama scenes.

Barbie's character also trended for her relatable "real talk" lines as she ended up ranting to her professor about her daily struggles.

"Barbie Forteza 's story is very realistic and her lines were so on point. Grabe 'yung batuhan nila ng lines ng prof niya and 'yung between sa kanila ng Nanay niya. She deserves an award sa acting niya for this ep," said one Twitter user.

Barbie Forteza 's story is very realistic and her lines were so on point. Grabe yung batuhan nila ng lines ng prof nya and yung between sa kanila ng Nanay nya.
She deserves an award sa acting nya for this ep.
So far ang ganda ng story. #MCIAngSimula

— freedom peace (@check_freedom) October 3, 2022

Meanwhile, many viewers were impressed with the issues and perspectives explored by the series.

"First episode pa lang but it tackles a wide range of issues like domestic abuse, childhood trauma, poverty and the mundane experiences of every students. Kudos to Barbie Forteza, she is really a versatile and underrated actress. This is promising!" said one viewer.

First episode pa lang but it tackles a wide range of issues like domestic abuse, childhood trauma, poverty and the mundane experiences of every students. Kudos to Barbie Forteza, she is really a versatile and underrated actress. This is promising! #MCIAngSimula

— ; (@JongdaeLex) October 3, 2022

"Maria Clara at Ibarra" is a historical portal fantasy series based on Jose Rizal's novels "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo."

It airs on GMA-7 on weekdays after "24 Oras."

—MGP, GMA News