Manila, Philippines — What was meant to be a powerful scene on set turned into a real-life emergency when actress and beauty queen Herlene “Hipon Girl” Budol collapsed during filming with co-star Joseph Marco. The incident, which happened in the middle of a highly emotional take, shocked everyone on the production team and left fans deeply concerned.

Unscripted Collapse Caught Everyone Off-Guard

The fainting occurred while Herlene and Joseph were filming a pivotal dramatic scene for their upcoming teleserye. According to production staff, Herlene was delivering a heartfelt monologue when she suddenly lost her balance and fainted into Joseph Marco’s arms. At first, some thought it was part of the script—until panic set in when she didn’t respond.

Crew members immediately called for medical assistance, and Herlene was rushed to the nearest hospital.

“Everyone was shaken. One moment she was crying for the scene, and the next, she wasn’t responding at all,” shared a staff member.

The Cause: Exhaustion and Overwork?

Though the official medical report has not been released, early statements from Herlene’s management suggest exhaustion and lack of rest may have contributed to the incident.

“She’s been juggling a very tight schedule—shooting during the day, tapings at night, and still fulfilling endorsement deals,” her manager stated. “Her body just gave up.”

Joseph Marco’s Reaction: A Real-Life Hero

Joseph Marco, Herlene’s co-star and on-screen partner, stayed by her side throughout the ordeal. Witnesses said he personally helped carry Herlene to the van that took her to the hospital and didn’t leave until doctors confirmed she was stable.

“Joseph was visibly shaken. He kept asking if she was okay. You could see he genuinely cared,” shared another crew member.

Fans and Celebrities Send Prayers and Support

As news of the incident broke, social media exploded with messages of concern and support:

Vice Ganda tweeted: “Pagaling ka agad, Hipon Girl. Huwag kang magpaka-pagod. 🙏❤️”

Andrea Brillantes commented: “Please rest ate Herlene! We love you!”

Fans trended the hashtag #GetWellSoonHerlene within minutes on Twitter and Facebook.

Management Speaks Out: She Will Take a Break

Herlene’s camp has since released a statement reassuring the public that she is now in stable condition and will be taking a temporary break from work to focus on her health.

“Her body needs to rest, and we are making sure she gets all the care she needs,” the statement read.

An Unforgettable Moment on Set

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the physical and emotional toll the entertainment industry can take on its stars. Herlene, known for her resilience and work ethic, has always been admired for rising above her humble beginnings. But this time, even the strongest needed to pause.

Let’s hope that this pause brings Herlene the rest she deserves—and that she comes back stronger, brighter, and healthier than ever.

‘Shrimp Girl’ Herlene Budol, Joseph Marco lead web series ‘The Woman Behind the Face Mask’
Miss Pilipinas 2022 candidate Herlene Nicole Budol, popularly known as “Hipon Girl”, is set to lead an upcoming online series that will bring excitement and laughs to netizens.

Her leading man for the 13-episode romantic digital series titled “The Woman Behind the Face Mask” is Joseph Marco.

The new loveteam’s series tells the story of Malta, played by Herlene, a 25-year-old cashier. Malta works hard to support her mother, Madam Baby, portrayed by seasoned actress, Mickey Ferriols.

At work, the lead character Malta meets handsome but unlucky in love Sieg, played by Joseph. It’s love at first sight for Sieg who is captivated by Malta’s eyes.

It will revolve around how Malta and Sieg find love and overcome their doubts and insecurities, and break the negative cycles of their past.

“The Woman Behind the Face Mask” is conceptualized with Puregold. It is produced by award-winning filmmaker Chris Cahilig, and directed by critically-acclaimed Victor Villanueva.

The online series takes inspiration from classic Filipino TV of the past decades.

Puregold marketing manager Ivy Piedad explained the face mask’s symbolism.

“The ever-present face mask is now a symbol of hope and self-love for our lead in this new series. And we hope to entertain a large number of viewers online especially given the Pinoy’s fondness for light, romantic comedies,” Piedad said.

The leading lady Herlene said viewers can expect laughter, tears, thrill and more.

“The story is classic. “Thrilling, funny, everything you want in a series, we have it here,” Herlene said.

The actress and aspiring beauty queen said she is honored to lead the online series.

“Puregold has given me such an exciting opportunity. I want to show all my followers and Hiponatic supporters my ability as a leading lady,” Herlene said.

She is also proud to work with Joseph who is known for his onscreen credits on “Sabel,” “Honesto,” “Pasion de Amor” and “Wildflower.”

“I am so lucky to be with Joseph Marco for this show. Of course, you always want to work with the best, so I was really happy when I found out that Joseph Marco was my leading man,” Herlene said.

Joseph likewise feels honored to be chosen as a leading man for the show. He replaces Kit Thompson who was the original leading man of the digital series. Thompson made headlines in March after the alleged physical abuse of former girlfriend Ana Jalandoni in Tagaytay.

“It’s really exciting,” Joseph said of his role.

“It’s been an absolute joy working with Herlene, and I think the viewers will be able to feel how much fun we had working together through the screen,” he added.

The online series can be streamed for free on YouTube Puregold Channel every Saturday, at 6 p.m., beginning June 11, 2022.