Here's how Marian Rivera's TV characters depicted women empowerment

Clarissa (Kung Mamahalin Mo Lang Ako, 2005)

In Marian's first ever teleserye, she portrayed Clarissa, a loyal friend to Joyce (Camille Prats). Clarissa later on finds out that she has a missing sister named Vanessa (Ehra Madrigal). However, Joyce and Vanessa ended up being rivals because of their love for one man. Due to Clarissa's persistence and love, she was able to convince the two to make amends and forgive each other despite their differences.

Almira/Alegra (Agawin Mo Man Ang Lahat, 2006)

A woman born with a deformed face, Almira was able to seek revenge against those who wronged her. She underwent plastic surgery and transformed into a successful woman named Alegra. Though she accepted the help of Tristan (Wendell Ramos), she found her way to success when she worked hard in putting up her own cosmetic business and eventually became powerful.

Carissa Crismundo (Pinakamamahal, 2006)

In this short-lived TV drama, Marian played Carissa, a woman who learned how to stand on her own since she grew up in an orphanage. In this place, she and her fellow orphans learned to be resilient and accomplish things by themselves. Carissa did not allow her past hinder her from achieving her dreams.

Ester Paredes (Super Twins, 2007)

Even if she was not accepted by the family of her husband, Ester exerted a lot of effort to earn the trust of her in-laws. However, due to unfortunate incidents, she had to be separated from her husband Manuel (Ian De Leon) and daughters Sha-Sha (Nicole Dulalia) and Tin-Tin (Ella Cruz). When Ester came back, she was already a rich woman who would give everything for the happiness of her two daughters.

Racquel Estadilla (Muli, 2007)

Racquel is the type of woman who would do everything for her family. She turned her back on her parents just to be with her beloved (Alfred Vargas) even if it entailed being abused by her husband's aunt. When Racquel returned after leaving her son for many years, she did everything to win him over. Before she died, Racquel was able to regain her son's love and forgiveness.

Marimar Perez/Bella Aldama (MariMar, 2007)

By reprising this Thalia role, Marian was catapulted to stardom. She played the barrio lass Marimar who, because of her innocence, was easily fooled by Angelika (Katrina Halili) and Sergio (Dingdong Dantes), the man that she truly loves. When Marimar found out that she is the missing heiress of the Aldama clan, she used this to study abroad, improve herself, and claim what is rightfully hers.

Dyesebel (Dyesebel, 2008)

Dyesebel proved that believing in one's self and determination will bring you to your true love, despite your appearance. This was proven by her successful quest to find Fredo (Dingdong), her one true love. In the end, she gained legs and lost her mermaid tail, allowing her to be with Fredo forever.

Proserfina (Ang Babaeng Hinugot Sa Aking Tadyang, 2009)

Proserfina had good looks, a sexy body, and the confidence to flaunt her assets. Because of this, she was able to earn the love and trust of Homer (Dingdong) who even sacrificed his bright future by joining the syndicate where Proserfina belongs. In the end, Proserfina's innate goodness caused her mend her ways and discard her wrong beliefs and at the same time, fight for her love for Homer.

Narda/Darna (Darna, 2009)

Well, Darna is the most beloved Pinay iconic superheroine. Do we need to say more?

Aside from being a superhero, Marian as Narda was able to inspire women because of her love for her friends and family members. Through her own little ways, she was able to bring about change in her resident orphanage without using her superpowers.

Jenny Dizon (Endless Love, 2010)

Even though Jenny was hated by her mother (Janice de Belen), she was persistent in winning her acceptance. Jenny was a simple, hardworking, and determined woman, making her attractive to both Johnny (Dingdong) and Andrew (Dennis Trillo).

Amaya (Amaya, 2011)

The true epitome of an empowered woman during her time, Amaya was able to prove that women also had their place in ruling a nation. This is remarkable considering that she lived during pre-colonial times when onlly men were believed to have the capacity to be leaders. In the end, Amaya became the most powerful woman and she defeat the ruthless warriors in their town.

Sharina Quijano (My Beloved, 2012)

Sharina took care of her younger sister Monica (Jennica Garcia) after their father died and their mother left them for another man. She did everything for the two of them to survive, even if it entailed enduring the abuse of her aunt who made their life a living hell. Sharina's strong faith in God helped her find her true love.

Meg Reyes (Tweets for My Sweet, 2012)

Marian took a comic route in depicting women empowerment through Meg, a provincial lass who dreams of having her own cafe someday. She tried her luck in Manila where she realized that hard work, determination, and good relationships with colleagues will contribute to a person's success.

Angeline Salcedo (Temptation of Wife, 2012)

A victim of a best friend's treachery and a cheating husband, Angeline went after the people who wronged her by transforming into the rich Chantal. She sought vengeance by turning the tables on them. In the end, Angeline's good heart prevailed and let the court and karma give her justice.

Carmela (Carmela: Ang Pinakamagandang Babae sa Balat ng Lupa, 2013)

Included in PEP's list of empowered female TV characters, Carmela did not use her beauty to get justice and find happiness, even if important people in her town desired her for her charm. Instead, she relied on her own efforts to achieve her goals in life.

Ynang Reyna Mine-a (Encantadia, 2016)

Being the Queen of Encantadia, Mine-a fearlessly faced the challenges of being a ruler and defender of the kingdom. She was able to raise four dutiful daughters who maintained the peace in Encantadia and served as potential heirs to her throne. Even though her children had distinct qualities, Mine-a showed them equal love and attention.