Back in the days when our main source of entertainment is the television, TV shows, frankly, were more sensible and informative. As a kid, my educational foundation was formed by watching tv shows – hard to believe, especially with what we’re seeing now on our flat screens. But, we did have some locally produced educational shows back then, and we here at When In Manila hope these could be aired again. Here are some of them:
7. Epol Apple
Epol Apple aimed to teach kids basic proficiency in conversational English. Bodjie Pascua as Tito Luis leads the fun cast of characters such as the friendly horn-bill Porfirio.
They teach English through engaging and entertaining stories, and fun activities. I watched this regularly as a kid and it helped me with my homeworks. Ma’am Benigay, my gradeschool English teacher. was quite impressed with me.
6. Math Tinik
Math Tinik attempts to rid children of the fear of numbers with adventures filled with math riddles and engaging activities. Fractions and multiplication became quite easy when presented in a story-telling fashion. Miss Mathtinik would’ve been a dream teacher!
5. Sineskwela
Sineskwela is considered a classic when it comes to Pinoy educational TV shows. It is multi-awarded and rightfully so. It makes science and technology accessible by using likeable characters such as Agatom, Ugat-puno, and Palikpik to present concepts such as the digestive system and bodies of water in an easy-to-grasp manner.
4. Pahina
Pahina focuses on presenting Philippine Literature through the perspectives of relatable characters Bert and Mithi. This show made me fell in love with poetry and stories. I think, with the rising popularity of spoken poetry, Pahina would be the best candidate for a reboot.
3. Bayani
Bayani follows young Noli and Aya as they go back in time in order to understand and learn about the lives of Filipino heroes. It was a fun and age-appropriate way to learn about our history.
2. Batibot
The Filipino take on Sesame Street. Batibot, top-billed by Pong Pagong and Kiko Matching, is your quintessential kid show. It tackles a bit of everything, from counting numbers to good morals
1. Hiraya Manawari
Translates to “reach for your dreams”, Hiraya Manawari weaves stories filled with moral lessons. It’s all about forming good character. If it were a subject, it would be Good Manners and Right Conduct. The stories are magical and borrows characters from our local mythology which makes it even more beautiful to watch.
Kids these days need Hiraya Manawari.
Do you think we should bring back these shows?
*Photos belong to their respective owners
