There’s no denying that Kapuso Network’s Primetime Queen Marian Rivera is having the time of her life. Her stellar career continues to pan out with successful TV projects, major endorsement deals, and awards.

She recently earned an incredible feat, being hailed as Media Magnet of the Year at the launch of this year’s Yahoo! Celebrity Awards. The accolade distinguishes Marian as the most popular and most talked about figure in the entertainment industry.

Also, for the second straight year, Marian reigned supreme as she bagged FHM’s Sexiest Woman in the Philippines title. This makes Marian the first one to win the coveted award three times. She snagged her first title in 2008. For this year, Marian earned more than 1.5 million votes – almost twice the number she got from last year.

“I feel so blessed sa mga recognition na ito, pero tulad ng lagi kong sinasabi noon, hindi ko makakamit ang lahat ng ito kung hindi dahil sa mga bumoto at patuloy na sumusuporta sa akin. Thank you sa Yahoo!at FHM dahil magsisilbing inspirasyon ang awards na ito na lalo kong pagbutihin ang aking trabaho, [I feel so blessed for having this kind of recognition, but as I always say, none of these would be possible without my loyal fans and supporters. I wish to thank Yahoo! and FHM for giving me the inspiration to continuously shine and persevere as an artist.]” shares Marian.

As if these are not enough, Her Royal Beauty’s legion of fans also keeps growing as she continues to dazzle on and off-cam. These days, Marian’s on-screen pursuits involve joining Jose Manalo, Paolo Ballesteros, and Wally Bayola in Eat Bulaga’s “Juan for All, All for Juan” segment, where she enjoys the privilege of visiting and helping some of the noontime show’s avid viewers.

Marian also keeps herself busy by flexing her choreography muscles in her primetime dance show. She ignites every Saturday night with her dancing prowess along with other renowned performers. Joining her are Christian Bautista, Paolo Ballesteros and Asia’s Pop Sweetheart Julie Anne San Jose.

Marian’s fans abroad can catch her on her self-titled show every Saturday on GMA’s flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV. To get the latest news about her and other Kapuso stars, visit the GMA Network website www.gmanetwork.com/international, Facebook pages, www.facebook.com/GMAPinoyTV,www.facebook.com/gmalifetv and www.facebook.com/gmanewsinternational, Twitter pages @GMAPinoyTV and @GMA_LifeTV, and Instagram page, @GMAPinoyTV.

GMA News TV International

GMA News TV’s Brigada won the One World Award in the US International Film & Video Festival in addition to its Gold Camera Award finish at the same Festival.  Brigada’s winning entry was entitled “Gintong Krudo” (Black Gold), a documentary to raise awareness for the estimated 5.5 million Filipino children considered child laborers. This is the first time the prestigious One World Award has been given to a Philippine TV network.

The One World Award was established more than 25 years ago by the International Quorum of Motion Pictures Producers to honor a work that fosters international understanding.  USIFVF medalists and certificate holders are all in the running for the One World Award, one of the grand prizes given at the Festival.

Brigada

Brigada’s One World Award winning documentary tells the story of 12-year old Bisaya, who goes out to sea every morning with his friends, 11-year old Christian and 13-year old Ruben, to salvage crude oil dumped on the water by ships. When they find patches of oil spill, they dive in and collect the oil with a sponge, risking their health for about a dollar per pail of oil.  Micaela Papa, who reported the story, went as far as joining the children in the murky water to collect crude oil.  Brigada is hosted by Jessica Soho, with Lee Joseph Castel as Program Manager and Harvey Bayona as Executive Producer.

Brigada was one of eight winning works for GMA Network at the US International Film and Video Festival – which included a Gold Award for Wagas, Silver Awards for State of the Nation with Jessica Soho, two episodes of Reel Time, Reporter’s Notebook and Front Row and a certificate for creative excellence for Picture Picture.

Brigada Gintong Krudo Episode

Brigada’s Gintong Krudo segment also won a Silver World Medal in the 2014 New York Festivals, and was a Finalist in the 2013 Japan Prize.

Kapuso viewers around the world may catch Brigada, bannered by multi-awarded broadcast journalist Jessica Soho, only on GMA News TV International.

GMA & Miss World Philippines

Philippine broadcast industry giant GMA Network is the official media partner of Miss World Philippines 2014.

The contract signing was held on July 4 at the GMA Network Center and attended by the top officers of the Network.

Just like the pageants held in 2011 and 2013, Miss World Philippines partners with GMA Network again this year to stage and broadcast this prestigious event. Last year, the Philippines made a significant milestone as Megan Young was the first Filipino to be awarded the Miss World title.

“We’ve been partners with GMA from the beginning since 2011 and we feel that there’s no better or stronger home for us than GMA,” says Miss World Philippines National Director Cory Quirino on having GMA as a media partner. “In 2011, we successfully launched the brand Miss World Philippines wherein we placed first runner-up. This 2014, Megan comes home to crown our queen. This will be the first time she will walk the Philippine stage as our very first Miss World. It will be very historic for us and we would like to share that history-making moment with GMA,” she adds.

Meanwhile, Gozon also expressed his gladness that GMA Network was chosen as Miss World Philippines 2014’s media partner. “Our partnership with Miss World Philippines is getting stronger and longer, and we are very glad that we are chosen again to be its partner. That’s why we are entrusted by Cory. I’m sure she appreciated what we have done in the past.”

The Filipina who wins this coveted crown will be a shining example of the heart and soul of Filipino womanhood. The winner and her court will put her beauty to good use by caring for the marginalized women and children of the Philippines through various charities.

The 2014 Miss World Philippines Pageant will be held in September and viewed nationwide in the Kapuso Network and viewers all over the world may catch it through GMA Pinoy TV.

True to its credo of Serbisyong Totoo, GMA Kapuso Foundation, the socio-civic arm of GMA Network, quickly responded to the call for disaster relief in the wake of typhoon Glenda.

In its ongoing nationwide relief efforts, the Kapuso Foundation has since served over 15,800 victims within two days after the storm entered the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR).

On July 14, a day prior typhoon Glenda entered PAR, the Foundation dispatched its initial team towards the province of Albay. By July 15, hours before typhoon Glenda’s landfall, relief operations began with the distribution of relief goods to individuals in evacuation sites in Pulangi, Albay. A total of 4,000 individuals have since been given assistance. On the day typhoon Glenda crossed southern Luzon and South of Metro Manila, 550 people were served by the Foundation’s soup kitchen in Bulelak Gym, Malanday, Marikina and an additional 250 individuals in Bangkulasi, Navotas were served with hot meals and relief goods for 100 families. By nightfall, close to 4,000 evacuees from Orion, Bataan were given relief goods by another Kapuso team dispatched in the area.

Large-scale relief operations were also carried out in Atimonan, Quezon, another of the hardest hit areas, serving at least 7,000 individuals. The Foundation’s disaster relief operations will be abetted with planned medical missions in the provinces of Quezon and Bicol, two of the identified hardest hit provinces by typhoon Glenda.

GMA Kapuso Foundation continues to accept donations in the form of rice, noodles, canned goods, ready-to-eat food packs, and blankets at the GMA Kapuso Foundation Office, GMA Network Drive cor. Samar st., Diliman, Quezon City or at the GMA Kapuso Foundation warehouse, 366 GMA Compound, Tandang Sora Avenue, Barangay Culiat, Quezon City from Monday to Friday, 9:00 am until 6:00 pm.

Cash donations may also be deposited without service fee deduction to peso and dollar savings accounts of Kapuso Foundation in all branches of Metrobank, UCPB, PNB and Cebuana Lhuillier. All donations are tax-deductible. For more information, please log on to www.gmanetwork.com/kapusofoundation.

GMA Network

There’s a love triangle brewing in GMA Pinoy TV’s My Destiny involving characters portrayed by GMA Artist Center talents Ruru Madrid, Ashley Ortega, and Gabrielle Garcia, making the drama series all the more exciting.

Ruru Madrid

Paul Andrada (Ruru Madrid) finds himself rebelling due to his parents’ looming separation. More conflicts arise as his girlfriend Nicole Perez (Gabrielle Garcia) and Nicole’s best friend Alex Martinez (Ashley Ortega) are dragged in Paul’s occasional snafus.

The love triangle begins when Nicole falls short as a girlfriend to Paul, failing to comfort him. Paul then confides to Alex, and they inevitably grow closer to each other.

When the cameras are not rolling, it’s a completely different story for the three. But if there’s one thing they share in common, it’s how much they enjoy honing their craft.

Ashley Ortega

Ruru Madrid rose to fame in GMA’s reality TV series Protégé: The Battle For the Big Artista Break, where he finished as a runner-up. Shortly after, he landed roles in a string of television series, appeared in drama anthologies, and performed in variety shows, proving that he can sing, dance, and act.

“I’ve learned a lot but I’m still eager to learn more because this is really my passion,” shares Ruru.

In just two years, Ruru has matured from a shy teenager to a more confident 16-year-old matinee idol gaining followers every day.

Ruru’s also slated to make hearts swoon together with his love team with Ashley Ortega. Their tandem is fondly called AshRu.

Gabrielle Garcia

“I’ve worked with Ash before in Dormitoryo and the movie Bamboo Flowers directed by Direk Maryo J. We develop our friendship every time we get the chance to work together which is why I’m more excited for our team-up to grow,” shares Ruru.l

Ashley echoes the same sentiments. “There’s never a dull moment with Ruru. He is fun to be with and he’s nice so I was really comfortable with our team-up from the beginning,” says Ashley.

According to Ashley, her love team with Ruru, or her budding career, in general, is not to be taken for granted. Playing parts in teleseryes entailed her to put some of her passion like figure skating on hold. However, Ashley is keen to finish her studies.

For Gabrielle Garcia, working alongside some of the most loved and respected figures in the industry is an absolute privilege. Being a newcomer, Gabrielle treats every taping day as a chance to learn about the nitty-gritty of acting.

“My experience made me a lot better in many ways, from getting to know myself more, to acting and dealing with my co-actors. It made me more committed to be part of acting workshops, and it made me eager and inspired to perfect my craft,” says Gabrielle.

Catch Ruru Madrid, Ashley Ortega, and Gabrielle Garcia in My Destiny, on GMA’s flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV.

The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) and its official media partner, Filipino broadcast giant, GMA Network announced the winners of the first Alex Esclamado Memorial Award for Community Service.

Inspired by the life and works of notable news publisher and editor Alex Esclamado, this honor recognizes outstanding contributions and services rendered by Filipino-American organizations to the Filipino and mainstream American communities and to the Philippines.

“We need to honor a man, who was an impossible dreamer, who dreamed of something that we, overseas Filipinos, especially those of us in the United States, have always wanted for a long, long time,” says former NaFFA Chairperson and head of the Awards Commitee, Greg Macabenta on the motivation behind the newly minted Alex Esclamado Memorial Award for Community Service. “The empowerment and unification, and it was only Alex who dared to dream of achieving those goals, and he actually did it,” he adds.

Following a thorough screening process, the Council for Filipino American Organizations of Central Florida, the West Bay Pilipino Multi-Service, Inc., Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Texas, and the Pilipino American Unity for Progress, Inc. were finally named winners of the award.

Leading the roster of honourees is the Council for Filipino American Organizations of Central Florida which was recognized for its outstanding community service in state socio-civic affairs and aid to the Philippines. Its mission includes providing relief aid to calamity victims, awarding scholarships to deserving students, and fostering trade and commerce between the Philippines and the State of Florida, to name a few. The group has also advanced FilAm visibility in the community, as well as helped build the Bataan-Corregidor Monument in Kissimmee to honor Filipino WW II veterans and the Jose Rizal bust at the International plaza at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando together with the former mayor of Orlando, Glenda Hood.

The West Bay Pilipino Multi-Service, Inc. was, meanwhile, recognized for exhibiting outstanding community service in health, education and youth development. Founded in 1968 by local hero Ed dela Cruz and other social activists, West Bay has helped thousands of individuals through employment placement assistance, food distribution to the elderly, youth programs, community health projects, advocacy initiatives, and case management. It has particularly excelled in aiding SOMA youth through its After-School Program using a holistic approach to ensure the social, emotional, academic, and physical wellness of our youth participants.

Another recipient is the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Texas owing to its outstanding community service in trade development and aid to the Philippines. Voted as the most outstanding FilAm Chamber of Commerce for three years in a row, some its most significant achievements include raising close to $1 million in donations for calamity victims in the Philippines and adopting an island in Northern Cebu for reconstruction and rehabilitation as well as NGOs in the Philippines. Among them are the Tahanang Walang Hagdan, Boys Reformatory School, and the Golden Acres Sanctuary for Abandoned Seniors.

Rounding out the list of awardees is the Pilipino American Unity for Progress, Inc. (UNIPRO), which won for its outstanding community service in youth leadership and development. UNIPRO’s projects involve internships fairs, workshops and forums on various topics such as community engagement, reconnecting with one’s Filipino roots and education.

Macabenta relates that the winners were chosen based on their “commitment to the Filipino people both in the United States and in the Philippines, a desire to empower our people and to claim our rightful place not only in the United States but all over the world, and lastly, integrity” which are all truly apparent in the man who inspired this award.

This was made possible through GMA International, which manages the operations and distribution of the Network’s three international channels, GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV and GMA News TV International.

“We congratulate the winners of the first Alex Esclamado Memorial Award for Community Service. We are proud to have taken part in recognizing their outstanding contribution in their respective fields of endeavour,” expresses GMA Vice President and Head of International Operations Joseph T. Francia. “We also congratulate NaFFAA for the success of the project and look forward to continuing our partnership with them in celebrating our shared and treasured Filipino values,” he adds.

Ms. Loida Nicolas-Lewis, former NaFFAA chair and Chair of the Panel of Jurors for the award commended GMA’s participation in the establishment of the award, “The Alex Esclamado Memorial Award for Community Service is a wonderful way of motivating FilAm community organizations to honor and continue his legacy. We are grateful to GMA Network for sponsoring this memorial award,” she says.

The winners will be presented at the 11^th NaFFAA National Empowerment Conference to be held at the Town & Country Resort & Convention Center, San Diego California. The event will run from August 7 to 10, 2014.

24 Oras

Mel Tiangco Magpakailanman

Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho

My Destiny

Niño

GMA Network is closing in on ABS-CBN in nationwide TV ratings with stronger programming across all timeblocks in July, according to data from the industry’s leading ratings service provider, Nielsen TV Audience Measurement.

For the period July 1 to 31 (with the dates of July 27 to 31 based on overnight data), GMA significantly reduced ABS-CBN’s lead in NUTAM (National Urban Television Audience Measurement) to just 0.5 percent with its 33.4 percent total day household audience share, and outscored TV5’s 11.5 percent by 21.9 points.

GMA grabbed the lead in the morning timeblock as it recorded a 32.4 percent audience share, outscoring ABS-CBN’s 29.1 percent by 3.3 points and TV5’s 12.4 percent by 20 points. Moreover, GMA more than tripled its lead in the afternoon block in July with 5.6 points relative to June’s 1.6 points, with a 35.4 percent audience share as against ABS-CBN’s 29.8; it also led TV5’s 12 percent by 23.4 points. GMA likewise improved its shares in the evening block to 32.3 percent from the previous month’s 31 percent.

Furthermore, GMA maintained its strong performance in Urban Luzon and Mega Manila with much wider margins over rival networks across all dayparts including the much contested primetime block. Urban Luzon and Mega Manila account for 77 and 60 percent of all urban TV households in the country.

GMA reigned supreme in Urban Luzon with a 36.9 percent total day audience share, ahead of ABS-CBN’s 29.9 percent by 7 points, and TV5’s 10.8 percent by 26.1 points.

The Kapuso Network also remained unrivaled in Mega Manila with a 38 percent total day audience share, outperforming ABS-CBN’s 27.8 percent by 10.2 points and TV5’s 11.4 percent by 26.6 points.

GMA also ruled the overall list of top programs (including specials) in Urban Luzon and Mega Manila with 19 Kapuso programs (out of 30) making it on both lists. Among the shows that scored top ratings in the two areas are Magpakailanman, Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho, GMA Blockbusters, Niño, My Destiny and 24 Oras.

Magpakailanman, the weekly drama anthology hosted by esteemed broadcaster and GMA News pillar Mel Tiangco, led all Kapuso shows in the NUTAM, Urban Luzon and Mega Manila lists; while securing the top spot in Mega Manila.

GMA subscribes to the Nielsen TV Audience Measurement service, while ABS-CBN is the lone local major TV network that subscribes to Kantar Media, formerly known as TNS.

Nielsen data is gathered through a greater number of sampled homes nationwide in comparison to Kantar Media.

For more information on GMA International’s events, artists and programs, visit the GMA Network websitewww.gmanetwork.com/international, Facebook pages, www.facebook.com/GMAPinoyTV,www.facebook.com/gmalifetv and www.facebook.com/gmanewsinternational, Twitter pages @GMAPinoyTV and @GMA_LifeTV, and Instagram page, @GMAPinoyTV.

Julie Anne San Jose

GMA Network is set to bring excitement to fans of Asia’s Pop Sweetheart Julie Anne San Jose with the launch of ‘Sing with MyJAPS’ music video promo, which will run until August 22.

Following the successful release of Julie Anne’s second album, “Deeper,” GMA Network opens this opportunity to all Kapuso fans who love her bright pop and R&B music. This promo gives them a chance to be featured in the music video of Julie Anne’s hit carrier single, “Right Where You Belong” from her latest album, which will be shown in various GMA Network programs.

Kapuso fans, music lovers, and netizens alike are invited to take a video of themselves or someone else, singing the chorus of Julie Anne’s “Right Where You Belong” using a video camera or a smart phone. The minus one of the said single’s chorus part can be downloaded from the video-sharing website, YouTube, at http://youtu.be/SIZ81WWyu0I.

The entries must be submitted in MP4 format to singwithmyjaps@gmanetwork.com together with the sender’s name and address. It must also have the hashtag SingWithMyJaps as the subject of the email.

The final “Right Where You Belong” music video will be uploaded on GMA Records’ YouTube channel (GMARecordsOfficial) and viewed nationwide in the Kapuso Network. Viewers all over the world may catch it through GMA Pinoy TV and GMA Life TV.

Photo shows (from L-R): GMA EVP and CFO Felipe S. Yalong, President and COO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon and GMA Marketing and Productions, Inc. President and COO Lizelle G. Maralag

Broadcast giant GMA Network (GMA) reported first semester revenues of P5.766 billion from recurring advertisements, a 4 percent decrease over the same period last year.

Election-related placements from the midterm elections, which boosted earnings in 2013, continued to play a factor as the Network’s consolidated revenues for the first half of 2014 fell 14 percent.

GMA News TV, the country’s number one news channel, and GMA International, which manages and operates the global distribution of the Network’s three overseas channels – GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV and GMA News TV International – lessened the drop in revenues as both platforms posted positive growth trends.

Total operating expenses went down 4 percent to P4.907 billion, mostly from the reduction in production costs equivalent to 5 percent in between periods.

EBITDA settled at P1.566 billion, down 32 percent versus 2013, while net income reached P580 million or P555 million less than last year.

Despite lower revenues in the first six months, GMA management remains confident that the Company will still hit its yearend target. “We have regained momentum as far as both our nationwide TV ratings and financials are concerned. We are optimistic that the third quarter will be a turning point for the company,” said GMA Network Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon.

Business Developments

GMA International posted positive growth over the previous year.  By the end of first half of 2014, flagship international channel GMA Pinoy TV grew its subscriber base by 8 percent.  GMA Life TV also increased its reach by 20 percent, while GMA News TV International remains the top performer in terms of subscriber growth, posting an increase of 894 percent over the same period in 2013.

Wholly-owned subsidiary GMA Worldwide, meanwhile, has sold P37.5 million worth of locally made programs amounting to 1,930 hours to various countries such as Brunei, Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar, South Korea, Vietnam, the US, Nigeria, and Uganda.

Meanwhile, the Kapuso teleserye My Husband’s Lover, which tackled homosexuality on primetime TV, continued to make waves with the increasing sales of its lead actors Tom Rodriguez and Dennis Trillo’s album dubbed TomDen under GMA Records. The album scored a Platinum Record Award from its sales of over 16,000 units from October 12, 2013 to May 21, 2014.

The IM Ready mobile app, an offshoot of the IM Ready public safety portal, was likewise well received by the public as it became the number one app among (free) News applications in both Apple App Store and Google Play in July. The app is a product of the collaborative efforts between GMA New Media and GMA News and Public Affairs.

TV Ratings

GMA sustained its TV ratings leadership in Urban Luzon and Mega Manila based on data from Nielsen TV Audience Measurement in the second quarter.

GMA led in Urban Luzon, which accounts for 77 percent of the total urban TV households in the country, with a 35.5 percent total day household audience share, up 2.8 points from ABS-CBN’s 32.7 percent and up 24.2 points from TV5’s 11.3 percent.

The Network also continued to score top ratings in its bailiwick Mega Manila, which represents 60 percent of the country’s urban TV household population, with a 37 percent total day household audience share. ABS-CBN trailed GMA by 6.8 points with 30.2 percent while TV5 was behind GMA by 24.7 points with 12.3 percent.

Partial 3Q ratings (July 1 to August 9, 2014 with the dates of August 3 to 9 based on overnight readings) showed GMA closing in on ABS-CBN in nationwide ratings, reducing the latter’s lead to a mere 0.2 percent.

Awards and Recognition

In July, GMA was recognized as one of the top-performing listed companies in the country based on the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) country reports and assessments for 2013 to 2014. This is the second year in a row that GMA was included in the list.

GMA also continued to add to its string of awards, bagging top honors from various award-giving bodies such as the US International Film and Video Festival, Communicator Awards, Asia Rainbow TV Awards, among others.

aya and her father Rey Kagahastian whom she had not seen in almost 20 years.

Jaya bonds with her half-brother Joshua and her father Rey along with the organizers of the Vancouver OPM Festival in Canada.

Joshua Kagahastian, Jaya, and Rey Kagahastian are reunited in Vancouver, Canada.

As thousands of Filipino-Canadians flocked to the Plaza of Nations in Vancouver to see Jaya perform at the third Vancouver OPM Festival, two special guests drove 13 hours from Edmonton, Alberta just to see the Kapuso Soul Diva.

They were Rey Kagahastian, Jaya’s father whom she had not seen in almost 20 years, and Joshua Kagahastian, her half-brother whom she met for the first time.

“My father left when I was three years old, I think,” Jaya recalls. “But I can remember seeing him again in 1980 when he met up with me in Fiesta Carnival in Cubao.”

“That was also the day he bought me my first pair of eyeglasses,” Jaya fondly remembers of that meeting.

Rey, who now resides in Canada, last saw his daughter in 1997 when she was on tour with Asia’s Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales.

The opportunity for their long-awaited reunion came when the Kapuso singer, who is currently a main host of GMA’s variety program, Sunday All-Stars, headlined the Vancouver OPM Festival last July, which was organized by GMA Pinoy TV in partnership with the Filipino Canadian Marketing Group, Inc.

“My father and I talked about everything,” she shares. “From how he met my mother, to the time I was conceived and why he left. We talked about our future together.”

Meeting her half-brother was also a special moment for Jaya and she was grateful for the opportunity to visit Canada, through the efforts of GMA Pinoy TV, which led to this significant milestone. “I felt so happy and blessed to have had a chance to get to know him even for a short time,” she says. “I can’t wait to spend more time with him so I can get to know him further.”

Going beyond giving her kababayans abroad a taste of home through a night of original Pilipino music, Jaya’s trip to Vancouver proved to be a memorable one as she herself was able to find a sense of home in reuniting with her family.

The maiden launch of the Alex Esclamado Memorial Award for Community Service in the Filipino-American community successfully culminated during the 11^th NaFFAA National Empowerment Conference on August 9, 2014 at the Town & Country Resort and Convention Center in San Diego, California.

The award was presented by the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) and GMA International, the global arm of Filipino broadcast giant GMA Network, and was borne out of their shared vision to honor the memory of Alex Esclamado, NaFFAA founding chairman and the moving spirit of the FilAm community in its struggle for unity and empowerment.

The award recipients in the open category were Council for Filipino American Organizations of Central Florida, West Bay Pilipino Multi-Service, Inc. and Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Texas. Pilipino American Unity for Progress, Inc. won in the youth category. The four organizations emerged among a diverse roster of nominees for having rendered outstanding community service in their respective fields.

GMA International is proud to have partnered with NaFFAA and looks forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come. “We are grateful to NaFFAA for providing us with this golden opportunity to join them in honoring the contributions of Filipino-American organizations to the Filipino and mainstream American communities as well as to the Philippines,” said GMA Vice President and Head of International Operations, Joseph Francia. He stood as GMA International’s representative together with Josh Andowitt, GMA Marketing Consultant and Greg Macabenta, former NaFFAA national chairman and head of the Awards Committee.

Gloria Caoile, founding NaFFAA national vice-chair and board member, and Rodel Rodis, NaFFAA co-founder, legal counsel and board member, acted as emcees of the awards ceremony. Loida Nicolas-Lewis, chair of the Panel of Jurors and NaFFAA national chair emeritus; Lourdes Esclamado, widow of Alex Esclamado; and Joseph Francia presented the loving cups which were especially designed by GMA.

NaFFAA members and awardees only have positive words for GMA International for sponsoring the awards and honoring Alex Esclamado and the FilAm community organizations. “Thanks to GMA International for their support of the Fil-Am community in the US. [They] are making a huge difference and we look forward to our partnership with them,” shared Brendan Flores, NaFFAA national treasurer. Likewise, Loida Nicolas-Lewis expressed her gratitude to GMA International particularly Joseph Francia and Greg Macabenta “for the brilliant execution of the GMA-sponsored Alex Esclamado Community Awards.”

The program was highlighted by a short message by Francia as well as special video greeting by GMA News Pillar and multi-awarded broadcast journalist Jessica Soho.

Specials features on the features will also air on GMA Pinoy TV, the flagship international channel of GMA Network, this September. For more details and program information, visit the GMA International websitewww.gmanetwork.com/international, Facebook pages www.facebook.com/GMAPinoyTV,www.facebook.com/gmalifetv, and, www.facebook.com/gmanewsinternational, and Twitter pages @GMAPinoyTV and @GMA_LifeTV.

Bela Padilla

Dennis Trillo

Four-time George Foster Peabody awardee GMA News and Public Affairs unveils another groundbreaking, socially relevant drama with the premiere of the first original medical TV series on local television – Sa Puso Ni Dok – beginning September 7.

Serving as an eye-opener on the harsh realities of public health in the country, Sa Puso ni Dok is a six-part weekly series produced by the award-winning team of GMA News TV, the same creative group behind highly acclaimed drama series Bayan Ko and Titser.

“Sa Puso Ni Dok’s ultimate battlecry is the improvement of public health care in the country. We also want to showcase the heroism of many of our government employed doctors, nurses and health workers who value integrity and service for their fellow Filipinos,” reveals Sa Puso ni Dok creator and Program Manager Sherilyn Bruan.  She adds “Aside from the program’s extensive research, the medical drama series has consulted medical experts to make the series more realistic in presenting various medical-related situations.”

Topbilled by multi-awarded actor Dennis Trillo together with award-winning actress Bela Padilla and under the direction of Adolf Alix Jr., Sa Puso Ni Dok tells the story of stern, unorthodox and mysterious head resident Doc Dennis De Vera (Dennis) and fresh grad, idealistic Doc Gabrielle dela Cruz  (Bela) whose lives and loves get intertwined inside the public hospital of Melchora Aquino General Hospital.

“I find my character very interesting.  Masungit ako na doktor dito pero unorthodox while Bela’s character is by the book, making us clash in many ways,” shares Dennis about his character, head resident Doc Dennis De Vera.

Bela, on the other hand, enthuses that her character, Doc Gabrielle, is lovable. “Gab is very easy to love because she always means well.  She is bubbly, young, and an ambitious doctor.  And even when things get in the way, she always finds solutions especially if her patients are in need.”

Both playing the role of a doctor for the first time, Dennis and Bela confess watching a US-based medical drama series as part of their preparation for the drama.  Dennis adds that he also did some research to understand some nuances, medical terms, and hospital procedures.

In the series, Doc Dennis’ dedication to his profession remains steadfast as he continues to resist the lure of work abroad to spend his workdays serving the sick in Melchora Aquino General Hospital. He also attends to the poor in a remote barrio in his personal time.

Afraid to love again, Doc Dennis discovers fate has another plan for him in the person of Doc Gab, a fresh graduate who joined the hospital to complete her required two-year return service program.

Armed with idealism and enthusiasm, Doc Gab gets disheartened when she discovers that the hospital has inadequate facilities, shortage in nurses and doctors, and in short supply of medicines.

While Doc Gab lacks experience in facing medical crises, Doc Dennis, meanwhile, has his own ways to face them.  But with their opposite personalities, will Doc Dennis welcome the idea of guiding this newbie doctor?  And with his passion for his work, will he be able to influence Doc Gab to stay and help the local residents in need? Or will Doc Dennis be swayed to leave the remote hospital instead?

Find out as the romantic love story of the two doctors unfolds in the face of challenging medical scenarios and tragedies as well as the discovery of administrative corruption.

Completing the cast of Sa Puso ni Dok are Anita Linda, Menggie Cobarrubias, Maey Bautista, AJ Dee, Gigi Locsin, Stephanie Sol, Elijah Alejo, Flor Salanga, and Sunshine Teodoro.

For more details and program information, visit the GMA International website www.gmanetwork.com/international, Facebook pages www.facebook.com/GMAPinoyTV, www.facebook.com/gmalifetv, and,www.facebook.com/gmanewsinternational, and Twitter pages @GMAPinoyTV and @GMA_LifeTV.

Bea Binene

Chanda Romero

Christian Bautista

Strawberry Lane

Jake Vargas and Bea Binene

Joanna Marie Tan

Joyce Ching

Kim Rodriguez

Rita de Guzman

Sheryl Cruz

Strawberry Lane Cast

Sunshine Dizon

TJ Trinidad

Beginning September 16, GMA Network will give new life to every viewers’ hopes and dreams in its newest family drama, Strawberry Lane.

Following the success of the top-rating primetime series, Niño, GMA Network brings another top of the line drama series featuring an original and heartwarming story of four girls, who remain optimistic in the midst of life’s challenges.

This newest primetime series brings together some of the brightest Kapuso stars in the industry and marks Bea Binene and Jake Vargas’ love team’s reunion on Philippine TV.

Bea Binene as Clarissa will be joined by Kapuso Network’s talented teen actresses Kim Rodriguez, Joyce Ching, Joanna Marie Tan, and Rita De Guzman who are set to breathe life to the endearing characters of Jack, Dorine, Lupe, and Lavinia, respectively.

Also joining the cast are promising Kapuso teen stars Kiko Estrada, Jeric Gonzales, and Jake Vargas.

Sunshine Dizon, Christian Bautista, TJ Trinidad, Ms. Chanda Romero, and Sheryl Cruz meanwhile play equally important roles in the newest primetime series.

The story revolves around the lives of Clarissa, Jack, Dorine, and Lupe who are accused of juvenile delinquency. Fate brings them together at Angel’s Haven, a reformation center for girls, with Ms. Digna (Chanda Romero) as the strict head.

Despite having different personalities, these four girls share the same hope of fulfilling their dreams. In Strawberry Lane, their favorite place in Angel’s Haven, they find purpose in finding a new beginning.

Dorine (Joyce Ching) is a soft-spoken girl who is weak in nature. At a very young age, she is separated from her parents Jonathan (TJ Trinidad) and Elaine (Sunshine Dizon) due to a saddening incident.

Elaine’s sister Monique (Sheryl Cruz) is pleased when this happened because she hates Elaine and promises to make her life miserable. Their younger brother Richard (Christian Bautista) will do everything to restore harmony in their family.

Dorine grows up to become a housemaid and will eventually be accused of committing theft, leading her to Angel’s Haven.

Bea’s character, Clarissa, was raised by her adoptive mother. To make ends meet, she will resort to stealing. Her heart’s greatest desire is to meet her father in the belief that her biological mother already died. She will eventually meet Gabo (Jake Vargas) who will become her guy best friend and will secretly fall in love with her.

Meanwhile, Jack (Kim Rodriguez) is a boyish girl who is accused of arson in the factory where she is working. She does not believe in the idea of romantic love. But her world will turn upside down when she meets Paulino (Kiko Estrada), the boyfriend of Monique’s daughter Lavinia (Rita De Guzman).

Lupe (Joanna Marie Tan) is the most ambitious among the four girls. Her dream is to be rich, believing that money is the most important thing. Despite her selfishness, her three friends will still accept her for who she is.

Together, these four girls will inspire each other to pursue their dreams and to remain hopeful no matter what life has in store for them. Witness how their lives eventually turn out to be intertwined as the story progresses.

Don’t miss the much-anticipated premiere of Strawberry Lane on GMA Pinoy TV, GMA’s flagship international channel. Learn more about the program through the website, www.gmanetwork.com/international, Facebook page, www.facebook.com/GMAPinoyTV and follow GMA Pinoy TV on Twitter and Instagram via @gmapinoytv.

Hiram na Alaala

Hiram na Alaala

GMA Network presents HIRAM NA ALAALA, another innovative primetime series that will captivate the hearts of viewers as it showcases how the power of shared memories can cause great love to become real. The show premieresSeptember 23 on GMA Pinoy TV.

Hiram na Alaala narrates how one soldier’s trauma becomes instrumental in sustaining and bringing back great love between man and woman.

This unique intertwining of lives and love stories fostered by shared memories will prove that GMA is determined to lead in primetime TV while showcasing the versatility of its stars led by Drama King Dennis Trillo as Ivan Legaspi and Kapuso drama sweetheart Kris Bernal as Andrea Dizon, together with multitalented actress Lauren Young as Bethany Sandovaland award-winning actor Rocco Nacino as Joseph Corpuz.

The series also stars respected movie and TV actors and actresses, Jackielou Blanco as Regina Legaspi; Nina Ricci Alagao as Martina Sandoval; Shyr Valdez as Araceli Corpuz; Dexter Doria as Ola Dizon; Antonio Aquitania asBenedict Corpuz; Allan Paule as Xander Dizon; and Lotlot de Leon as Annabelle Sta. Cruz.

Completing the powerhouse cast are Julia Lee as Gelai, Kenneth Paul as Chris Corpuz, Jenny Rose as Krissy Corpuz,and Rap Fernandez as Bruno.

In the series, Ivan (Dennis) and Joseph (Rocco) instantly became friends when they are deployed to war. They endure the ravages of armed conflict with Joseph’s tales of great love for Andrea (Kris), highlighting shared memories of their years together as lovers, much to Ivan’s amusement.

However, in an encounter with rebels, both men are captured, imprisoned and tortured. Fate separates them as Joseph is left in captivity while Ivan is rescued by the military.

The suffering Ivan experienced triggered him to assume the identity of Joseph, while losing memories, perception and awareness of his own life and past. With this regained freedom and assumed identity, Ivan finds great love in the arms of Andrea as Joseph.

Meanwhile, Andrea was devastated when she found out that Joseph was missing. But she will be surprised when Ivan claims that he is Joseph. Andrea eventually falls for Ivan because through him, she feels Joseph is still around. She carries on her great love for Joseph by allowing herself to relive her shared memories with her missing lover.

Joseph is eventually saved only to find out that Ivan and Andrea are already in love with each other. He thinks that he is betrayed by his best friend and girlfriend and is now left with the daunting challenge of bringing back Andrea’s great love for him.

The same holds true for Bethany (Lauren), Ivan’s girlfriend. Upon Ivan’s return, Bethany is surprised to find out that her boyfriend is claiming that he is Joseph. What makes things worse is the fact that Ivan doesn’t remember her and he thinks he is in love with someone else. Bethany will then become determined to do everything to get Ivan back.

Under the helm of the highly acclaimed director of Temptation of Wife and My Husband’s Lover, Dominic Zapata, Hiram na Alaala begins airing on September 23, Monday to Friday on GMA Pinoy TV.

Miguel Tanfelix Birthday

Miguel Tanfelix, who played the lead character of the recently concluded top-rating family drama series Niño, continues to inspire and bring joy to his supporters. Last September 18, the GMA Artist Center star celebrated his birthday in advance with persons with disabilities of Dr. Jose P. Rizal Elementary School in Dasmariñas, Cavite.

Loud cheers and applause welcomed Miguel, who brought along his Niño co-star and good friend Renz Valerio. The special event got even livelier with Tess Bomb as the host. Also present was Miguel’s family who came in full force.

Miguel made every moment count, making sure his fans enjoyed the afternoon celebration. The birthday celebrant presented a dance and song number which delighted the audience. He even joined the games while being in character as Niño.

The 16-year-old was a darling to his fans as he approached the kids, took selfies with them, and signed autographs.

The kids for their part surprised Miguel with a dance number and both Miguel and Renz joined their performance.

Just as Miguel was about to distribute snacks, he received a phone call from Bianca Umali that brought kilig to their fans because they heard the conversation of both tween stars.

“Hi, Miguel! Nami-miss ko na ‘yung araw-araw kitang nakakasama. I’ll see you very soon,” said Bianca. Miguel and Bianca’s loveteam in Niño endeared them to their fans. Both Bianca and Miguel could still be seen on Ismol Family and Sunday All Stars.

Before Bianca said goodbye to Miguel, she took time to greet and thank the supporters of their team-up. Miguel later admitted that he was touched with Bianca’s effort to call him despite the latter’s busy schedule.

Miguel also shared that he couldn’t be more grateful for the chance he’d been given to bond with some of his fans. According to the StarStruck Kids alum, he personally picked to celebrate his birthday with the special kids of Dr. Jose P. Rizal Elementary School. It was made possible with the help of GMA Artist Center, his family, and sponsors.

“Dahil po sa ginampanan kong role ni Niño, naintindihan ko ‘yung kalagayan nila, na kailangan nila ng atensyon, na ‘yung treatment sa kanila dapat parang normal na tao din kasi mayroon din silangfeelings na pwedeng masaktan,” shared Miguel.

The school administrators expressed their gratitude for having been chosen by Miguel. According to them, the fun-filled celebration was a first—and will go down as one of the most memorable events held in the school.

Miguel will be part of the “Kapusong Pinoy sa L.A.” concert, organized by GMA Pinoy TV, the flagship international channel of GMA Network, in cooperation with Polaris Media and Marketing. It will be held on September 27 at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center in Redondo Beach, California. The show starts at 6:30 PM. For ticket reservations, the number to call is 310-989-4523.

Joseph Francia, GMA Vice President and Head of International Operations, and Grace Labaguis, GMA marketing consultant receiving the awards for GMA Network

(September 17, 2014 – New York City) GMA Network through its global arm, GMA International, was recognized at the 2014 NAMIC Excellence in Multicultural Marketing Awards (EMMA) for its outstanding marketing efforts across different platforms.

The “Manny Pacquiao T-Shirts Gift-with-Purchase” and the “Celebrity Shout Out” promos won second place in the Print and Social Media category, respectively, while the “Balikbayan/Repatriate Box Discount Card Gift-with-Purchase” promo finished third in the Grassroots category.

Created in partnership with Verizon, the “Manny Pacquiao T-Shirts Gift-with-Purchase” promo was launched to further ignite the Filipino spirit among Filipino-Americans in the US East Coast as it celebrates the unmatched victories of Manny Pacquiao. In turn, the “Celebrity Shout Out Promo” was activated to strengthen the engagement between Kapuso artists and viewers abroad through social media. Lastly, the “Balikbayan/Repatriate Box” promo, an entry submitted by Comcast, utilized the traditional balikbayan boxto bring Filipino Americans in the East Coast closer to home during the Christmas season.

Receiving the award for GMA at ceremonies held on September 17 at the Marriott Marquis in Time Square, New York were Joseph Francia (left), GMA Vice President and Head of International Operations, and Grace Labaguis (right), GMA marketing consultant.

“We thank NAMIC for once again recognizing our efforts to reach out to our existing and potential subscribers,” said Francia. “Needless to say, we are also grateful to our Kapuso viewers in all parts of the world for their continuous support.”

GMA won alongside some of the world’s biggest pay TV distributors and industry suppliers such as Comcast Xfinity, HBO, BET Networks, ESPN Deportes and Univision Communications Inc, among others, adding to its long history of winning at the NAMIC Awards.

NAMIC is an international organization that recognizes superior multicultural marketing practices in the cable industry. Established in 1980 as non-profit trade organization, it has over 2,700 professionals belonging to a network of 16 chapters worldwide.

Elemento

Every creature has a story of goodness – this is the message behind GMA’s Halloween Special Series ELEMENTO.

Elementos or entities of the dark have long been perceived as evildoers who prey on unwilling human victims. ELEMENTO allows viewers a peek into the other side – perhaps elementals are also victims – and we humans the first to sow fear by destroying their natural world.

In ELEMENTO, the elementals are all fighting for a cause – a manananggal for the protection of children (played by Glaiza de Castro), a kapre and his best friend (played by Kuya Bodjie Pascua)  for the preservation of the forest, a beautiful river fairy (portrayed by Solenn Heussaff) against water pollution, and many more. The program shows the elementals as they fall in love, rear their children and protect the legacy of their own kind.

Watch creatures from Philippine myths and folklore come to life – but with a twist – in the upcoming ELEMENTO.  The show launches on October 13, only on GMA Pinoy TV.

Regine & Alden are hosts in Bet Ng Bayan

This October 5 (Sunday), the search for the Performing Artist Extraordinaire begins via GMA Network’s newest reality talent search Bet ng Bayan. Hosted by no less than the Asia’s Songbird Ms. Regine Velasquez-Alcasidand Kapuso Prime leading man Alden Richards, Bet ng Bayan showcases exceptional Filipino talents—dancing, singing, and extraordinary performances.

BNB is a nationwide musical festival fostering the Filipino’s faith in the Filipino talent as the performer that is broad in orientation and scope. Since July, BNB has welcomed all hopefuls from all over the Philippines who are to show off the best of what they’ve got. The show encourages viewers to personally and passionately root for a specific local Filipino talent into becoming the nation’s best.

“It’s the first talent show that I’ll be hosting na hindi lang singing. This one is different kasi may kakaibang talento at sayawan. And what we’re doing in Bet ng Bayan is that each category will have a winner—Bet na Singer/s, Bet na Dancer/s, at Bet na Kakaibang Talento. I’m very much excited to be part of the nationwide auditions. We’re going to look for representatives from each region, so everyone can support their fellow kababayan,” shares Regine.

Meanwhile, Alden also expresses his excitement to be part of the show, “Sobrang blessed ako to be part of this show lalo na at makakasama ko pa si Ms. Regine. I am very much looking forward to witness kung gaano kagaling ang mga Pinoy. This show will definitely be inspiring knowing that thousand of aspirants are ready to take a chance on fulfilling a lifetime dream.”

Directed by Mark Reyes, Bet ng Bayan will air every Sunday with updates from Monday to Friday.

Bet ng Bayan will definitely bring a new level of entertainment to Filipino viewers as it premieres this October 5 on GMA Pinoy TV.

Yagit Kids

This October 14, GMA Network will make us reminisce blissful childhood days with our true friends and encourage us to create more joyful memories together via the upcoming afternoon drama series, Yagit.

GMA Network’s remake of Yagit introduces the newest child wonders Chlaui Malayao, Zymic Jaranilla, Judie Dela Cruz, Jemwell Ventinilla who will breathe life to Eliza, Ding, Jocelyn, and Tomtom, the characters who became part of the Filipinos’ lives 20 years ago and will definitely capture the hearts of today’s generation once again.

Portraying the character of Eliza Macabuhay is Chlaui Malayao, a sweet girl who became popular on her memorable pancit canton TV commercial, easily catches the attention and affection of everyone with her angelic face. Her happy disposition fits the role of Eliza, the loving daughter of Dolores Macabuhay, to be played by Kapuso actress Yasmien Kurdi. Their physically similar charming faces make their mother and daughter tandem in the small screen more realistic.

Playing Ding Reyes, a street-smart boy who will eventually develop friendship with Eliza, Jocelyn, and Tomtom is Zymic Jaranilla. With his heartfelt acting performance, Zymic easily draws in sympathy and unique connection with the viewers like no other.

Playing siblings and Eliza’s cousins Jocelyn and Tomtom Macabuhay are the Ate and Kuya of the Yagits,  Judie Dela Cruz and Jemwell Ventinilla, respectively. Judie is a kind-hearted girl who is passionate about acting and singing.

Meanwhile, Jemwell, who will give life to Tomtom’s chubby character, has a humorous personality. His comic timing makes him perfect for the role.

Together, these four lead characters will prove how the power of togetherness and friendship can influence their positive outlook amidst life’s challenges.

Also joining them is Steph Yamut, a cheerful kid from Cebu, who will be portraying the role of the English/ Tagalog and Cebuano-speaking girl Tiffany.

Catch this generation’s talented child actors in the highly-anticipated remake of the phenomenal drama series,Yagit, this October 14 on GMA Pinoy TV.

For more information on your favourite Kapuso shows, visit the website, www.gmanetwork.com/international. (30)

Ang Lihim Ni Annasandra Cast Mikael Daez, Andrea Torres, Pancho Magno, and Cris Villonco

Ang Lihim ni Annasandra

This October 7, GMA Network presents a new drama that combines romance and fantasy with Ang Lihim ni Annasandra premiering on the Network’s flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV.

It describes every woman’s journey in finding true love, while allowing her secrets to remain a mystery, because like her secret, every woman is a mystery.

The original drama series is topbilled by Kapuso leading lady Andrea Torres as the alluring but street-smart market vendor Annasandra, a loving daughter whose only wish is to provide the needs of her parents.

Playing opposite her is sought-after actor-host Mikael Daez as William Benitez, a rich and handsome man who works as a marketing department head for their family business (a surgicenter). William eventually falls for Annasandra without knowing her secret. This is the third team-up of Andrea Torres and Mikael Daez, following Sana Ay Ikaw Na Nga and With A Smile.

Fast-rising actor Pancho Magno is Enrico, the hunky porter who is secretly in love with Annasandra.

Rochelle Pangilinan plays Esmeralda, the mysterious mountain-dweller who cursed Annasandra to become an awok. Esmeralda herself is an awok. When Annasandra’s father Carlos shot and killed Elena, her daughter; Esmeralda cursed the human Annasandra to be an awok.

Keeping the real identity of Annasandra a secret to protect her from being hurt and hurting other people, Glydel Mercado plays Belinda Vergara, the simple and loving mother of Annasandra. Emilio Garcia is Carlos Vergara,the loving father of Annasandra who inadvertently brought the curse upon his daughter.

Ma. Isabel Lopez is Rosario, an “awok” and the mother of Esmeralda. Arthur Solinap is Kenneth, the doctor best friend of William. Joyce Burton is Hazel Benitez, the ex-beauty queen socialite mother of William; and Cris Villonco as Lorraine Armada, the beautiful surgicenter model who will do anything just to win William.

Completing the cast are Gab de Leon as Jimmy, the confidant of Enrico; and Erika Padilla as Becca, the bubbly and cheerful best friend of Annasandra.

In Ang Lihim Ni Annasandra, twist of events led Annasandra to be cursed.  From her human form, she transforms into an “awok” when dusk sets in. Her parents keep her real identity a secret to protect Annasandra from being misjudged, from being harmed and from harming other people.

Will Annasandra’s life ever be normal? Will she ever find true love and happiness despite her secret?

Much like how your own secret defines who you are, find out how one woman’s secret can lead her to everlasting love in Ang Lihim ni Annasandra, beginning October 7 on GMA Pinoy TV.

For more information on your favourite Kapuso programs, visit the website, www.gmanetwork.com/international.