Ahead of the local release of her new romantic film Only We Know, veteran actress Charo Santos took to social media to share the journey behind the project where she co-stars with Dingdong Dantes.
On her Instagram page, Charo posted behind-the-scenes photos from their meetings and filming days, recalling how the concept was first pitched to her in December 2018.
“I still remember our very first meeting when the Only We Know concept was pitched to me. I was instantly drawn to Betty’s quiet strength, but little did I know it would take years—plus a pandemic—before her story could come to life,” Charo wrote.
The actress shared that the film faced several delays due to uncertainties. It was only in 2023, after a three-year hiatus, that the project resumed.
“We met again in 2023, after three years of uncertainty. That’s when we decided: TULOY NA ITO. And tonight, on the eve of the film’s release, I’m filled with both excitement and a bit of nervous anticipation,” she expressed.
Charo admitted that the film pulled her back into the world of cinema after a long break.
“Matagal-tagal na rin akong hindi humarap sa malaking screen… but something about this story, this character, and this team pulled me back. 💖,” she expressed.
She also expressed gratitude to director Irene Villamor, her co-star Dingdong, and the entire production team, calling the project a “labor of love.”
“To Direk Irene, thank you for your patient, generous guidance. You helped me tap into my 'inner Betty,' and allowed me to rediscover parts of myself I didn’t know I had been missing,” she stated.
“To my co-actor and dear friend Dingdong Dantes—thank you for the kindness, the laughter, and the trust. Sa buong cast, crew, at production staff...SALAMAT. This was a true labor of love.”
Ending her message, Charo shared what she hopes viewers will take away from the film.
“Betty reminded me that you’re never too old to fall in love again with a person, with your passions, with life itself. And that is what I hope Only We Know brings to you: a quiet realization that there is always more to feel, more to give, and more to discover at any age,” she expressed.
“Starting tomorrow, Only We Know is yours. I hope it finds its way into your heart, the way it found mine. 🎬❤️.”
READ: Why the Dingdong Dantes, Charo Santos-Concio film took 7 years before its release
Produced by Cornerstone Studios, AgostoDos Pictures, Star Cinema, and 7K Entertainment, Only We Know follows Betty (Charo), a retired English teacher adjusting to post-career life, who meets Ryan (Dingdong), an engineer grieving the loss of his wife. Their unexpected friendship slowly evolves into a touching story of healing, connection, and rediscovery.
The ensemble cast includes Shamaine Buencamino, Joel Saracho, Al Tantay, Max Collins, Soliman Cruz, Isabel Oli, Johnny Revilla, Rafa Siguion-Reyna, Yesh Burce, and Gil Cuerva.
At the film’s media conference, Charo, Dingdong, and director Irene Villamor encouraged audiences to watch the film on the big screen.
“Experience siya that’s why you have to experience it in the cinema, you have to experience the story because it’s a journey of life and soul,” Irene said.
Dingdong also added, “Minsan mas maganda yung mga bagay na kayo-kayo lang but I’ll tell you this the movie is about us letting you into our lives so it's all about that experience kaya di kayo makapag antay na pasukin yung buhay nina Betty at Ryan.”
Director Irene also shared that the film explores a May–December love story and the gray areas of undefined relationships.
“It’s really that na sinasabi na no labels and, or no definition dahil sanay tayo sa society na may stereotype kapag may nakikita tayo na magkasama,” she explained. “We are always curious about other person’s lives but what do we really know about their lives.”
Only We Know will also has its international screening which begins on June 12 in Australia and New Zealand, followed by the U.S., Canada, and Guam on June 13. The film will then be shown in the UAE, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei starting June 19. Screenings in Hong Kong and Macau are also scheduled later in June.