Talent coordinator Winnie Mariano cherishes memories of countless out-of-town trips and bonding moments with her ‘ASAP’ familyApart from star-studded talents performing at the maximum level, “ASAP’s” success throughout the years is also attributed to the people behind the scenes.

One of them is Winnie Mariano, a talent coordinator for ABS-CBN’s longest-running variety show who has witnessed its evolution into what is known to today’s audiences as “ASAP Natin ‘To.”

“I’ve been the talent coordinator since day one. As the years went by, they added another talent coordinator or two, depending on the show’s requirements. But as of now, I’m the only one,” Winnie says. “I wasn’t one of those who conceived the show, but I was there during the birthing process. I’ve maintained the same position since February 5, 1995 until this very moment.”

Winnie savors every moment of helping “ASAP” put up a scintillating show every week. Not only does she consider her longtime role as a job that opened countless opportunities for her, but she also found a family she could always rely upon in the process.

Lifelong friends

“‘ASAP’ is family to me. I’ve gained lifelong friends because of this show. Relationships are important for the machinery to work. I love my job and the people I work alongside. If you love what you do, work won’t just be work. You will be able to do the best that you can,” she says.

From the out-of-town trips bringing the show to different parts of the country and abroad, to all of their bonding moments with the staff, crew and artists, Winnie cherishes every moment with her “ASAP” family.

“One of the most memorable was when we did a Michael Jackson tribute. All our singers and dancers performed perfectly! I was crying towards the end of the performance,” she recalls.

Despite the challenges and with people coming and leaving the show, Winnie holds on to the most important thing in her life: the passion for her job, commitment and craft.

“I believe that one thing is constant, then and now: passion. Passion to do the job you’ve been assigned to do. Passion to do your best so that what you see is something that you are proud of. Passion to make sure that our viewers aren’t shortchanged because we want to give them the best kind of entertainment every single Sunday,” she explains.

Making the dream work

And another secret to the show’s success? It’s all about teamwork.

“Our artists always say they can’t do what they do if it weren’t for the people behind the camera. Thing is, our ideas would never see fruition if our artists don’t interpret them the way they do. So it’s true that teamwork makes the dream work!”

W i n n i e imparts words of inspiration to every Kapamilya employee, whether they are starting their journey with ABS-CBN or have stayed for the longest time just like her.

“The only thing that has kept me going the last 28 years is my love for the show. If you love what you do, there’s nothing you can’t do. And always believe. Believe that you are the best that you can be. Believe that better days will come. Believe that your efforts will not go unnoticed. Believe that He will always be there when you need Him!”

Story and photo contributed via ABS-CBN’s eFrequency on Yammer