Maricel Soriano on taking a different path with 'Lavender Fields' 

MANILA -- Veteran actress Maricel Soriano recently opened up about why she accepted a role in the Dreamscape Entertainment series "Lavender Fields." 

Known for her impressive versatility and decades-long career, Soriano shared that the series offered something distinct from her past projects.

"Because it’s different, hindi siya 'yung tipikal," she explained when asked about her decision to join the cast. She pointed out that even from the trailer, the series stood out. "Di ba sa umpisa pinakita agad sa trailer na pinagkatiwalaan ko siya, binigyan ko siya ng chance — 'yung ganung type," she added, emphasizing the refreshing change the show brings to her usual roles.

In "Lavender Fields," Soriano stars alongside Jodi Sta. Maria, another powerhouse in the industry. The veteran actress couldn't help but express her admiration for Sta. Maria. "Naku, I love her very much, and she’s so good. Napakagaling ni Jodi," she gushed, clearly impressed by her co-star’s talent and work ethic.

Soriano also took the time to commend other members of the cast, including Jolina Magdangal, Jericho Rosales, and Janine Gutierrez. Their performances have evidently left a mark on the veteran actress, who is no stranger to sharing the screen with some of the industry’s best talents.

Reflecting on her career and how much she has changed over the years, Soriano opened up about the turning point in her life. "Inumpisahan ko 'yan sa mga anak ko," she began, recalling how her journey of self-improvement started when she was pregnant with her son, Tiem, and when her other son, Marron, was six years old. "Sabi ko sa sarili ko, ganyan ba? Ganyan ba talaga? Hindi tayo magbabago?"

It was a moment of deep introspection for Soriano, who realized that she needed to change for the sake of her children. "Kinausap ko talaga yung sarili ko kasi paano 'yung mga bata, 'pag lumaki na sila sa school, ano sasabihin ng mga tao? Oh, 'yung nanay mo nakipag-away na naman, palengkera. Madami silang pwedeng sabihin," she shared candidly. 

This self-reflection led her to a significant transformation. "Kaya sabi ko, kailangan ko magbago para sa mga anak ko. Kaya 'yun mismo 'yung oras na 'yun, ang dami kong binago. Wala na 'yung mabibigat na bagahe, kaya bitawan mo na lahat," Soriano added, describing the changes she made to become a better person and mother.

When asked what keeps her motivated to stay in the industry after all these years, Soriano admitted that her priorities have shifted. "Dati, mommy ko. Pero ngayon, 'yung mga anak ko na," she revealed, showing that her family remains her greatest inspiration. 

As she looked back on her journey, she expressed amazement at how time has flown by. "Natutuwa ako kasi ang lalaki na nila. Parang kailan lang na baby-baby pa. Ngayon 'yung isa 37, yung isa naman 31," she said, reflecting on the growth of her children and the passage of time.

"Lavender Fields" is set to air starting August 30 on Netflix, August 31 on iWant and September 2 on all Kapamilya platforms.