THE upcoming primetime teleserye of the Kapuso Network is set to highlight Davao City, particularly its cacao industry and several tourist spots.
With the title "I Heart Davao," stars Carla Abellana, Tom Rodriguez and Benjamin Alves are set to prove that there is so much to love about the capital city of Davao Region.
In an interview with the Davao entertainment press last May 11 at New Asia restaurant, the artists gave a glimpse of what to expect from their series. It will start airing by June.
"Lahat po kami ay grateful na mapasama sa project na 'to," Abellana said, adding that everyone is bound to witness "magandang kwento at magandang Davao."
Apart from working with her real-life sweetheart, Abellana noted that the "I Heart Davao" project also gives her the opportunity to enjoy the city, its bustling economy, and colorful culture.
"Ultimately, para ma-enjoy n'yo po ang Davao," said the actress who portrays the character of Hope.
With 80 percent of the 40 episodes shot in the vast cacao farm of the Puentespinas in Malagos, chocolates will have a big role in the love triangle among the characters of Rodriguez, Abellana and Alves.
Rodriguez, who rose to fame following the successful run of the gay-themed soap "My Husband's Lover," plays the role of Ponce, a Dabawenyo, whose family owns the cacao farm.
Being a native of the city, he may need to show that he loves durian, the pungent yet creamy fruit, which Davao is known for as well.
"I have tried durian right in this restaurant (New Asia), but it's okay. What I can say is mas gusto ko ang cacao," he said when asked if he likes the taste of the so-called King of Fruits.
Meanwhile, Alves, who is Paul in the upcoming show, shared how it is working with the reel-and-real life couple.
"Both of them are very professional," he said, while emphasizing that he never feels awkward at all considering that he has to take scenes with Abellana with Rodriguez around.
"All of us want to make the show better," he noted.
Aside from shooting in Malagos, the "I Heart Davao" cast members are likewise doing some scenes while enjoying water rafting, the Crocodile Park, and the famous halu-halo of Aling Foping, among others.
Abellana, Rodriguez, and Alves will be taping here until May 19.