Award-winning actress Gretchen Barretto was a personal choice of Pinoy Soap Opera Queen Judy Ann Santos to play the new character in ABS-CBN’s top-rating primetime drama series “Huwag Ka Lang Mawawala.”

“It really felt so good that I was personally handpicked by Judy Ann,” said Gretchen, who accepted the role of Attorney Eva Custodio despite the fact that she will soon start taping for her own upcoming teleserye. “It’s really a dream to work with Juday that’s why I did not let the chance pass by. We all know that in her generation, she’s really one of the best, if not the best.”

Gretchen added that through her special participation in “Huwag Ka Lang Mawawala,” she was able to realize how bless she is right now. “Sometimes, I forget to be grateful, but I am truly thankful that I have a good career and I get to work with very talented people,” said Gretchen. “It’s flattering to still be very much in the business after so many years and to be a Kapamilya is such a blessing.”

When asked about her insight about the teleserye’s women empowerment advocacy, La Greta said that she totally supports the cause. “I encourage all women to go out, work, and empower themselves because with that, nobody can abuse them. You only get abused because you allow people to do it,” she expressed.

Meanwhile, “Huwag Ka Lang Mawawala” recently revealed the fiercer Anessa (Judy Ann) after having been rescued by Dr. Maria Balaguer (Amalia Fuentes). How will the new Anessa change the lives of Eros (Sam Milby), Alexis (KC Concepcion) and the whole Diomedes family? What will Atty. Custodio do to help Anessa in her new ‘mission’ in life?

Don’t miss the fast-paced story of “Huwag Ka Lang Mawawala,” weeknights, after “Muling Buksan Ang Puso” on ABS-CBN Primetime Bida. For more updates about the show, log on to www.facebook.com/HKLM.TV and follow @HKLM_TV on Twitter.