Barbie Forteza and Sharon Cuneta at the "Honor Thy Mother" media conference, September 8, 2026 at the Solaire Resort in Quezon City. ABS-CBN News
MANILA — Actress Barbie Forteza described working alongside Sharon Cuneta in the upcoming drama series "Honor Thy Mother" as a "masterclass."
During their media conference on Tuesday, Forteza said she initially thought Cuneta would be "strict" because of her status as one of the country's most iconic actresses. Instead, she was pleasantly surprised by her collaborative approach on set.
"I always learn from Mama Sharon. It's like taking a masterclass every day, front row seat," Forteza said.
"Impression po at first, akala ko strict po si Ms. Sharon… pero grabe sobrang collaborative. Sobrang humble. Sobrang generous and giving," she added.
READ: Barbie Forteza reveals Sharon Cuneta inspired her to be an actress
Cuneta returned the praise, calling Forteza one of the best actresses she has worked with.
"Isa si Barbie sa pinakamagaling na nakatrabaho kong artista… Ang layo-layo pa ng mararating niya," Cuneta said, saying the younger star's talent is matched by her humility, professionalism, and positive attitude.
Meanwhile, Khalil Ramos admitted he initially felt anxious about joining the series, which marks his first project with Dreamscape, especially since he would be working with industry veterans.
"Nung tinanggap ko ‘yung project na ‘to, admittedly kinakabahan talaga ako," said Ramos. "As in sobrang in-overthink ko only to experience pagdating ko sa set… lahat ng anxiety ko sobrang, it was completely gone."
Cuneta said she found herself relating to her character, Diana Aragon, despite describing the role as stronger and colder than her real-life personality because of the hardships the character endured.
"Oo, naka-relate ako. I think madaming makaka-relate dito nang iba't ibang intensity… So, I hope na makatulong din na maka-inspire," Cuneta said.
Cuneta also said she is proud of the entire cast's performances and praised the series as a "well-made" drama with a fresh and compelling story.
"Honor Thy Mother" premieres on September 11 on Prime Video.