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Charo Santos-Concio

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Profession: Actress, Host, Media Executive, Producer
Birthday: October 27, 1955

Charo Santos-Concio is one of the most respected figures in Philippine entertainment — an actress, producer, and media executive whose influence has shaped generations of storytellers. Best known as the long-time host of Maalaala Mo Kaya (MMK), Asia’s longest-running drama anthology, she has become a symbol of grace, wisdom, and empathy on Philippine television.

Before becoming a broadcasting icon, Charo built her reputation as a talented actress, earning critical acclaim in films like Itim and Kisapmata. Later, she transitioned behind the scenes, producing award-winning films and eventually serving as the President and CEO of ABS-CBN Corporation — the first woman to hold this position in the network’s history.

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Notable Works

  • Itim (1976) – Teresa
  • Kisapmata (1981) – Mila
  • Maalaala Mo Kaya (1991–2022) – Host
  • Tanging Yaman (2000) – Grace
  • Ang Babaeng Humayo (2016) – Horacia (Venice Film Festival Best Actress)
  • Kun Maupay Man It Panahon (Whether the Weather is Fine) (2021) – Norma

Achievements

  • Venice Film Festival Best Actress for Ang Babaeng Humayo (2016)
  • Lifetime Achievement Award from Gawad Urian
  • Outstanding Achievement Award in Television by the KBP Golden Dove Awards
  • Served as President, CEO, and later Chief Content Officer of ABS-CBN
  • Recognized for empowering women in media and promoting Filipino stories globally

Fun Facts

  • Holds a degree in Communication Arts from St. Paul College Manila and a master’s degree from Ateneo de Manila University.
  • Began her career as a production assistant before rising through the ranks of ABS-CBN.
  • Maalaala Mo Kaya’s iconic phrase “Dear Charo” became a pop culture staple.
  • Passionate about mentoring young talents and producers in the film and TV industry.