MANILA, Philippines — In an emotional gathering, Sanya Lopez and Ashley Ortega, stars of the war drama Pulang Araw, called for justice for the last remaining comfort women from World War II, recounting the deep impact of meeting the elderly survivors before filming the series.

The actresses, who portray women victimized during the Japanese occupation, shared heartfelt reflections at the Pandesal Forum on October 24 in Quezon City’s Kamuning Bakery.

Lopez, who plays Teresita Borromeo, a bodabil star caught in the eye of a brutal Japanese colonel, became tearful as she recalled the strength of the women she met. “Napakabigat po ano… artista lang naman po ako, pero ramdam ko ‘yung mga ipinaglalaban ng mga kababaihan natin dito,” she said.

Lopez shared the lasting impact of hearing Lola Isang’s story, who expressed sorrow over the life she never had. “Sobrang suwerte pala ng henerasyon ngayon,” Lopez added, underscoring the privilege of modern-day freedom.

Ashley Ortega, who portrays Sister Manuela Apolonio, a nun forced into being a comfort woman, echoed Lopez’s sentiments. Initially unaware of the full scope of the comfort women’s suffering, Ortega admitted to feeling heartbroken upon learning of their experiences. “I am really grateful na na-meet ko ‘yung mga lolas… May kasama kaming creatives and press, pati sila naiiyak,” she recounted.

Ortega emphasized the importance of educating younger generations about the atrocities faced by Filipinos during the war. “Now I am happy na ‘yung mga students nalaman na nila ang mga nangyari… it’s about time na isalaysay namin ‘yung mga istorya ng mga comfort women.”

Both stars, united in their calls for justice, are moved that Pulang Araw serves as a voice for these women. “I’m happy na naging voice ang Pulang Araw… para mabigyan ng hustisya ‘yung mga comfort women natin,” Ortega added, expressing her hope that this chapter in history inspires empathy and change.

Pulang Araw airs on GMA-7 following 24 Oras and has consistently ranked among Netflix Philippines’ Top 10 most-streamed shows since its premiere on July 29.