Cover The cast of Sine’skwela, one of our classic TV shows on the list (Photo: ABS-CBN Foundation)
The cast of Sine’skwela, one of our classic TV shows on the list (Photo: ABS-CBN Foundation)
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A little treat for those who feel nostalgic. This is a roundup of the TV shows that we used to love
We are, more often than not, a reflection of what we consume, whether it’s films, books or the like. In the Philippines, a number of children’s shows have long played a role in shaping young minds, helping them dream bigger and stay endlessly curious.
In this article, Tatler rounds up the beloved programmes we grew up watching and still hold close to heart, all thanks to the lessons they left behind. Pop the kettle and join us on a nostalgic trip back to the glory days with Sine’skwela, Batibot and other unforgettable classics.
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‘Sine’skwela’
Above ‘Sine’swela’ is the portmanteau of “sine” (film/show) and “eskwela” (school)
‘Sine’swela’ is the portmanteau of “sine” (film/show) and “eskwela” (school)
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The portmanteau of “sine” (film/show) and “eskwela” (school), Sine’skwela is an educational programme produced by ABS-CBN and Studio 23, which aired from June 1994 to July 2004. This curriculum-based television series presents science lessons aligned with public primary school pupils from Grades two to six.
The episodes go beyond basic library research, incorporating laboratory experiments and field visits to reinforce learning.
‘Wansapanataym’
Above ‘Wansapanataym’ aired from June 1997 to February 2005
Known as the Philippines’ longest-running fantasy anthology, Wansapanataym (Once Upon a Time) aired from June 1997 to February 2005. The series follows the stories of ordinary people as they experience supernatural events that change their lives.
A movie with the same title was also released in 1999 by director Johnny Manahan. This adaptation shows the story of an orphaned girl, Anna (Shaina Magdayao), who searches for her long-lost father (Christopher de Leon).
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‘Batibot’
Above ‘Batibot’ is an educational show that ran from 1983 to 1984
‘Batibot’ is an educational show that ran from 1983 to 1984
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Batibot is an educational show that ran from 1983 to 1984. Produced by the Philippine Children’s Television Foundation, the show was hosted by two endearing Muppet-inspired characters named Gong Pagong (a gentle giant turtle) and Kiko Matsing (his cheeky monkey companion). The duo was plucked straight from the pages of the Filipino folktale The Monkey and the Turtle, a story famously translated into English by national hero José Rizal back in 1889.
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‘Art Angel’
Above Pia Arcangel and Krystal Reyes, two of the three hosts of Art Angel
Pia Arcangel and Krystal Reyes, two of the three hosts of Art Angel
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Hosted by broadcast journalist Pia Arcangel, along with Tonipet Gaba and Krystal Reyes, Art Angel inspired a generation of creative and crafty children. The show taught young viewers how to recycle everyday items and transform them into imaginative works of art. Over the years, it earned numerous accolades, including the Anak TV Seal, PMPC Star Awards for Television and Gawad Tanglaw. The programme concluded on May 14, 2011, after airing a total of 370 episodes.
‘Math-Tinik’
Above ‘Math-Tinik’ was a show that aired from January 1997 to August 2004
‘Math-Tinik’ was a show that aired from January 1997 to August 2004
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A play on the word “Matinik”, or sharp, Math-Tinik was an educational show that reintroduced mathematics with flair and imagination. Produced by the ABS-CBN Foundation and the Department of Education, the series aired from January 1997 to August 2004.
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Credits
Images: Knowledge Channel
Jove holds a degree in Journalism and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Philosophy at the University of the Philippines–Diliman. She has flair for in-depth, interview-driven stories that explore politics and culture, shaped by her background in national broadsheets.
When she’s not on assignment, Jove spends her days painting, sipping lemonade, and walking her dog, Jupiter. She can often be seen in Escolta with a film camera in hand, browsing novelty shops in search of rare memorabilia. For leads, reach her at Jove@tatlerphilippines.com.
