It’s been nearly a decade since Encantadia first captured the hearts of Filipino viewers, and now Gabbi Garcia is back as Alena in “Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre.” For Gabbi, the return feels like a reunion—with people, memories, and magic that shaped her career.
Appearing on “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” last Friday, the actress described her comeback as “surreal” and “heartwarming.”
“It’s been crazy! We did the first one in 2016, and now it’s airing again. I’m back taping for Sang’gre—I even joke, ‘My God, I might be thirty and still doing this!’”
For Gabbi, stepping on the Encantadia set again was like stepping back into a family home.
“The people—cast and production—are family. It’s like returning to your OG show. It’s not the same as before, a lot has changed, but the love is still the same.”
Facing the Fans
Gabbi also addressed fans’ reactions to Alena’s evolving storyline.
“I’ve been reading comments—some agreed with how my character turned out, some were disappointed. But this time, you won’t be disappointed,” she promised.
She also clarified why Alena occasionally went missing in earlier episodes.
“Back in 2016, people asked why I wasn’t in some episodes. The storyline changed, and that was beyond my control. I was also a minor then, so my work hours were limited. I even left for a short commercial abroad—just six days! It wasn’t because I wanted to skip filming.”
Gabbi admitted she once felt FOMO (fear of missing out) when her character’s scenes were reduced.
“I had no control over the story. Now, in 2025, with a new generation of Sang’gres, things will be different. And I promise—Alena fans won’t be disappointed.”
Joining Gabbi once again are Glaiza De Castro (Pirena), Kylie Padilla (Amihan), and Sanya Lopez (Danaya)—a reunion that brings back the fiery sisterhood that defined Encantadia.
Catch “Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre” on GMA Network, Mondays to Fridays at 8 p.m. after 24 Oras, or stream it live via Kapuso Stream on YouTube.
