Miguel & Mela – Dahil Mahal na Mahal Kita Movie (1998)

A film by Wenn V. Deramas
Mela (Claudine Barretto) is a campus beauty who's earned the reputation of a “Bad Girl.” But underneath the seductive clothing and uninhibited behavior is a sensitive and vulnerable soul. Mela hides a painful past. Her mother died at a young age, leaving her father desolate and driving him to alcoholism. Numerous beatings from her father caused Mela to run away from home, and seek shelter with an aunt. Despite living an immoral life as a mistress, Mela's aunt is kind-hearted and loving to her niece. Mela herself constantly seeks acceptance and satisfaction in relationships with different men.

Mela's current boyfriend, Ryan (Diether Ocampo), is also a troubled soul who cannot get along with his father. The youngest and the only boy among three children, Ryan's source of emotional support is his mother. Mela and Ryan start off as friends before going steady, but it is not long before Ryan becomes unfaithful.

Hurt and determined to change her destiny, Mela resolves to look for “Mr. Perfect,” who turns out to be Miguel (Rico Yan). Rich, intelligent, and good-mannered. A typical aristocrat guy who is always formal, all-business and snobbish. He portrays the typical “guy-next-door” women fall for, but has a superior personality which is a turn-off. Miguel's only fault is his tendency to rigid self-discipline.

Mela sets her sights on Miguel, but Miguel refuses to give her the time of day. Mela is relentless, and dares Miguel to a bet, the consequence being, he would have to spend a weekend with Mela. Miguel loses, and, despite his fears, enjoys the company of Mela. During their weekend together, Miguel discovers the beauty in Mela, and falls hopelessly in love.

Love eventually transforms Mela into the person who would please Miguel. But the story doesn't end there. The relationship must strive through jealousy, misunderstanding and animosity from Miguel's mother.