By Bayani San Diego Jr.
Inquirer

MANILA, Philippines–Rhian Ramos is supposed to be taking a break from show biz.

But she found herself accepting a major — make that mega — role in a new afternoon soap on GMA 7.

The 16-year-old Rhian is the new partner of Mark Herras in the remake of “My Only Love,” the 1982 Sharon Cuneta-Gabby Concepcion starrer, according to GMA Artist Center.

The series, which started taping on Wednesday, is expected to be launched next month as possible replacement for “Kung Mahawi Man ang Ulap,” another remake. It stars Bianca King, Stef Prescott, Alfred Vargas and Rita Avila, under the direction of Louie Ignacio.

Rhian, who also hosts the Animax show “Mad, Mad Fun,” is “overwhelmed” by her new assignment. But she promises to continue her high-school studies — the main reason she took a breather from the biz earlier this year.

“It’s written in my contract that education is my priority,” says Rhian, who is currently enrolled as a junior in a home-study program. “I want to take a creative course like directing or fashion design in college.”

The young actress is thrilled that Robin Padilla and Sharon Cuneta expressed interest in working with her in future projects.

“It would be a dream-come-true,” she says. “It’s so flattering. When I retire from acting, I’d have a great list of co-stars.”

While Rhian met Sharon at the premiere of GMA Films’ “Ouija,” she passed off the chance to be formally introduced to Robin.

At that time, she recalls, taping for her show “Lupin” was held in the same compound as Robin’s program “Asian Treasures.”

“I saw him from a distance. I didn’t have the guts to say hi to him,” she recounts. “Others may think I was rude for not saying hello. But I’m just shy. I get easily star-struck.”

Rhian is aware she is often misunderstood. “I realize you can’t please everyone. Some will understand you; others simply won’t.”