MANILA, Philippines -- Julia Barretto gets her first starring role in the long-running drama anthology "Maalaala Mo Kaya."
For the first time, the 16-year-old actress will topbill an episode in the well-loved Kapamilya program, which she has referred to as a long-time dream.
In a trailer for the June 15 episode released on Monday, Barretto is seen recalling her first roles in television as a child actress. She is then shown in a montage of dramatic scenes in her "Maalaala Mo Kaya" debut.
Prior to her launch as a member of Star Magic Circle 2013 early this year, Barretto had guest appearances in various Kapamilya shows including Kokey" (2007), "Walang Kapalit" (2007), and "Palos" (2008).
Leading up to her "teleserye" debut as "Cofradia," Barretto's stint in "Maalaala Mo Kaya" is seen as her first dramatic role as a teen star.
"Hindi po ako makapaniwala na magkakatotoo na siya. Sobrang saya at excited ko kasi it has always been my dream na magkaroon ng 'MMK' episode," said Barretto, whose parents are actress Marjorie Barretto and comedian Dennis Padilla.
The young actress said that while it was easy to say yes to her "Maalaala Mo Kaya" project, she considered it a daunting "responsibility."
"Nakaka-pressure po kasi baka hindi ko po ma-meet 'yung expectations ng ibang tao, at natatakot po ako na baka ma-disappoint ko sila," she said.
"Pero sometimes po sinusubukan kong hindi pansinin ‘yung pressure kasi gusto ko pong makapag-focus on how to improve my acting skills and show everybody na kaya ko po," Barretto added.
Joining Barretto in the cast of the June 15 episode of "Maalaala Mo Kaya" are Ara Mina, James Blanco, Jacob Dionisio, Tommy Abuel, Manuel Chua, Kristoff Meneses, Marikit Morales and Yda Yaneza.
Written by Mark Angos with research by Akeep del Rosario, the episode is directed by Dado Lumibao.
