Vanessa Hudgens’ Independence Day post draws mixed reactions from Pinoys

By JeliNe malasig Inquirer.net

THE Independence Day post of Philippines global tourism ambassador Vanessa Hudgens was met with mixed reactions from Filipino social media users.

Throughout its history, Makilala TV has covered a wide range of topics that speak to the Filipino American community: Gun violence, entrepreneurship, aging, sex and intimacy, Filipino lesbians and burlesque artists, climate change, COVID frontliners, Black Lives Matter and more. They recently did an interview with two young girls aged 7 and 8, on the topic of school safety.

“These are topics not commonly discussed in our community and that’s why we love talking about them,” said co-founder Cristina Pastor who shared how they initially fashioned themselves ala Barbara Walters’s The

View. “We wanted it known that Filipinos are not a silent community.”

Makilala was founded by Pastor and former public access producer for QPTV and filmmaker Maricor Fernandez. It is co-hosted by author and fitness coach Jen Furer, public health professional Rachelle Peraz Ocampo, and Pastor who publishes The FilAm newspaper.

Produced in partnership with MNN, Makilala TV reaches a wide audience through its broadcasts on MNN every other Thursday, Bronxnet TV every Wednesday, and globally on Kapatid International every Sunday.

The show has been hailed as an exemplary source of information, inspiration, and entertainment for viewers.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Makilala TV remained committed to its viewers by producing one episode per month, never missing a single show. The tapings shifted to a virtual format during COVID before resuming in-studio once the MNN studio reopened.

Co-host Furer said the show aired at least 125 episodes and had the pleasure of hosting a staggering 601 guests!

As Makilala TV embarks on its 11th season, it will continue to delve into relevant topics, according to Co-host Ocampo. Episodes focusing on “Caring for Loved Ones with Dementia: Navigating the Journey” and “Filipinos in Staten Island” are in the pipeline for airing. The dedicated team of Makilala and the unwavering support of MNN are excitedly looking forward to the next decade, committed to amplifying the Filipino voice, she said.

For more information about Makilala TV and its upcoming episodes, please visit www.makilalatv.com or follow them on social media platforms. n