Filipino spoken word artist and frequent Kapuso collaborator, Mark Ghosn, makes a comeback in the new GMA show, ‘OK Ako,’ an advocacy series in partnership with the National Council for Children’s Television.
Mark Ghosn is known to be one of the pioneers of modern spoken word poetry in the country, and he is most famous for creating the show Ampalaya Monologues. Ghosn gained international recognition as the first Filipino to make it to the global finals of the World Monologue Games, he was also the first spoken word artist to enter the Top 50 Charts on Spotify.
“OK Ako,” a series aimed at the younger generation, particularly those facing mental health challenges, presents three stories that reassure viewers it’s okay to open up about their feelings. The show emphasizes that everyone’s struggles are valid and encourages sharing them openly. It also highlights that one’s struggles are real, and it’s alright to share them. ‘OK Ako’ also features young Kapuso artists Kokoy De Santos, Angel Guardian, Sofia Pablo, Saviour Ramos, and Aidan Veneracion, featuring new and original pieces from Ghosn and fellow spoken word artist Maimai Cantillano.
Mark Ghosn’s last project with GMA Network was his spoken word performance in “Panata sa Bayan,” the official theme song of GMA News and Public Affairs Eleksyon 2022, and a collaboration with Aicelle Santos. Ghosn shares insights into the series and what made him return to the spoken word scene. “I took a break to take care of my well-being. This is a great project to come back to because it tackles mental health.” He adds that ‘OK Ako’ means a lot to him as he wishes that mental health was more openly discussed as such a topic is usually considered taboo in much older times.
Mediums like spoken word poetry, films, plays, songs, and shows like ‘OK Ako’ serve as an avenue to release emotions. He mentions how art helped him cope, “Art is my therapy, art is like a prayer to me, when we create we become one with the creator and it makes us feel better, and be better.” Mark highlights the need for an outlet to release the bottled-up emotions, which are often ignored, and suggests that venturing into new experiences is a great way to achieve this.
You can catch ‘OK Ako,’ every Sunday at 2 pm from September 8 to 22 on GMA Network.
