If you’re living in Fiji and haven’t been living under a rock, then I’m sure you may have heard of the Philippine soap opera/love story, “Gulong ng Palad” or locally known as “Gulong” for short.

The popularity of “Gulong” in this country is so widespread, that if I stopped and asked every second person on the street about the Philippine soap, they would know exactly what I’m talking about. It’s even popular in rural villages that have electricity or a generator.

The story of “Gulong ng Palad” is set around two lovers, Luisa Santos and Ricardo “Carding” Medel, who are from two different social classes… that is all that I will say. You can go out and ask your friend, neighbour or a workmate in Fiji for a proper synopsis.

The soap is set in the Tagalog language, so if you are able to understand Tagalog, then you’ll feel right at home, otherwise subtitles are provided in English for your own convenience.

On the issue of subtitles, it’s quite amazing that many people in the village are drawn to “Gulong”, and have contributed to it’s popularity here. Amazing, because English obviously isn’t the primary language. So, I’m guessing that there are probably one or two translators for a household watching “Gulong” in the village.

“Gulong ng Palad” is sold cheaply at your local pirate DVD outlet, and comes in a series of eight (8) discs, with each disc having a length of four (4) hours. So that’s thirty-two (32) hours in total, of your life right there.

Pirate copy of “Gulong ng Palad” (Part 1 of 8)

Don’t worry, it isn’t all that painful or torturous as you may think. The story is so captivating that most viewers tend to lose track of time, sleep, and even responsibilities.

There have been numerous incidents of people staying up all night watching “Gulong”, with a roll of orchid, softly, or other toilet brands by their side. Please note that the roll of toilet paper isn’t for the wiping of the posterior whilst watching “Gulong”, but for the tears i.e. from the eyes.

Carding and Luisa For Life!!!!!!!11!! XD

On a parting note, if the “Gulong ng Palad” plague has spread to your household, please keep a box of Kleenex or your favourite toilet roll by your side because this show is known to get the water works running.

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