ABS-CBN will try to reclaim the "pre-primetime" slot by putting its new teleserye against GMA's "Magic Palayok."

The “pre-primetime” slot is the very first program under the primetime block before the news. GMA-7 started to dominate this timeslot since the fantaserye “Bantatay” scored high ratings not just in Mega Manila but also in Kantar Media’s national TV ratings as well. The airing of “Bantatay” has been extended because of its high ratings.

“Bantatay” ended on a high note last February 25, 2011. It was replaced by “Magic Palayok” on February 28. The Geoff Eigenmann-Carla Abellana starrer continued the winning streak of “Bantatay” conquering Kantar Media’s National TV ratings on its timeslot.

Magic Palayok‘s rival program is Kris Aquino‘s “The Price is Right” which premiered last February 5. The Kapamilya game show has been receiving 4% to 5% lower ratings nationwide compared to the Kapuso fantaserye.

This is perhaps the reason why ABS-CBN is removing “The Price is Right” in the pre-primetime timeslot and putting “Mula sa Puso” against “Magic Palayok.” According to reports, “The Price is Right” will now become a weekly game show, to air every Saturday.

This is a very strategic move for ABS-CBN in order to maintain its dominance on primetime nationwide. It’s a tested formula that a remake of one of the country’s most-beloved soap opera will be a sure-fire hit because the viewers are already familiar with its story. This is why Mara Clara is the most-watched TV program today.

Do you think “Mula sa Puso” the remake can topple “Magic Palayok” beginning this Monday, March 28?