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10 years and counting: Alden Richards keeps shining brighter
When you hear the name Alden Richards, his bedimpled cheeks, natural charm, and humility which have won the hearts of many fans easily come to mind.
He was once an aspiring artist who made it big without losing his faith and genuine demeanor, making him well-loved on and off camera.
Though his early years in the industry were tough, Alden refuses to lose sight of how he started 10 years ago, pointing out that his struggles served as the driving force behind his success.
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Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit brings vengeance back to television as it airs anew this Monday
Beginning Monday (December 7), GMA Network brings back the well-loved TV adaptation of the 1989 award-winning blockbuster movie by Regal Films 'Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit’ on the Afternoon Prime block.
After several months of hiatus, the star-studded cast offer their loyal fans and followers a recap of the heartwarming series that they have consistently followed since its pilot airing. Meanwhile, its much-awaited all-new episodes are set to air starting January 2021.
The drama series is top-billed by the one and only Superstar Ms. Nora Aunor as Mercedes “Cedes” dela Cruz. Playing equally important roles are highly-acclaimed actress Mylene Dizon as Magnolia “Nolie” dela Cruz and Kapuso Breakout Star Kyline Alcantara as Maggie dela Cruz.
Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit follows the story of Cedes, Nolie, and Maggie – three generations of women who will take on a quest to pursue their dreams and to avenge the indignities they suffered from those who have wronged them.
Completing the powerhouse cast are: Zoren Legaspi as Anselmo, conceited son of Martina and Ramon who pursues Nolie for his selfish needs; Gabby Eigenmann as Arthur, an eligible bachelor and entrepreneur who helps Nolie to exact revenge; Ina Feleo as Margaux, classy and self-absorbed wife of Anselmo who thinks lowly of Nolie; Yasser Marta as Jun, charming and carefree son of Anselmo and Margaux who falls in love with Maggie; Divina Valencia as Editha, a rich widow who crosses paths with Cedes and takes her in; Candy Pangilinan as Connie, close confidante of Nolie who sticks up for her through ups and downs; and Isabel Rivas as Martina, controlling and condescending wife of Ramon who will go to great lengths to get what she wants.
Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit also features the special participation of Ricky Davao as Damian, calm and charitable husband of Cedes; and Dante Rivero as Ramon, Martina’s successful husband.
As the series airs anew, the cast members expressed what they think about returning on air, how they feel about working in the new normal, and what’s in store for the Kapuso viewers in the coming episodes.
Mylene shares what she appreciates most about working in the new normal, “Magkakasama kaming lahat sa set, araw-araw kaming nagta-trabaho so it’s easier to stay in character. ‘Yung timeframe rin, mas mabilis naming natatapos ‘yung work. Nagkakaroon talaga ng tunay na bonding ang lahat ng tao sa set.”
“Challenging po dahil isang bagsakan binigay sa amin ‘yung script pero masaya rin po dahil mas naging close ang lahat sa set. Masarap sa pakiramdam dahil suportado po namin at inaangat ang isa’t isa,” Kyline adds.
Meanwhile, Zoren feels fortunate and at ease to have worked in a safe location, “Ever since naman nagka-pandemic, I’m very careful sa pagsunod sa health protocols. Lahat din ng tao sa set ay dumaan sa swab test at talagang maingat. For me, it’s a safe environment but we still have to be cautious.”
Gabby, in turn, teases viewers on what to expect in the new episodes, “Abangan nila kung maitutuloy ba nina Nolie at Arturo ang planong pabagsakin ang mga Santos o lalambot ba ang puso ni Nolie dahil mahal pa rin niya si Ansel. Malalaman na ba nina Maggie at Jun ang totoong pagkatao nila?”
Yasser also reveals having to study their script religiously every day, “Challenging po ang mga eksena dahil ito po ay directed by Laurice Guillen kaya everyday bago matulog at paggising nag-aaral po talaga kami ng script.”
On the one hand, Candy is elated for viewers to witness the continuation of the story, “Excited to share what we all worked for. Excited to know how people will respond to our hard work, the fruit of our teamwork.”
Don’t miss the highly-anticipated recap of ‘Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit’ which also airs abroad via GMA's flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV. For the program guide, visit www.gmapinoytv.com. (30)
Enabling millions of Filipinos to access high-quality, affordable digital TV experience:
GMA Network unveils ‘GMA Affordabox’ on its 70th anniversary
For its 70th anniversary celebration, the country’s leading and largest broadcast firm GMA Network, Inc. wholeheartedly offers its own high-quality and affordable Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) receiver ‘GMA Affordabox’.
As the Network aspires to enable every Filipino home to enjoy digital TV viewing experience, GMA Network Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon proudly shared that GMA Affordabox was specifically developed to be made accessible to millions of Filipino households.
“In celebration of this milestone of reaching seven colorful decades in the industry, we are more than grateful for the Filipinos’ continued trust in GMA Network as we reaffirm our commitment to deliver excellence in news and entertainment. Kaya naman, kasabay ng ika-70 anibersaryo ng inyong Kapuso Network, buong puso naming inihahandog sa inyo ang high-quality at abot-kayang digital TV receiver na Para Sa Pilipino—ang GMA Affordabox.”
GMA Affordabox is a plug-and-play device that can easily be connected to an analog TV in order to receive digital television broadcast. Users can watch GMA, GMA News TV, and the most-awaited Heart of Asia in digital display, as well as all other free-to-air digital TV channels available in their area.
“GMA Affordabox stays true to its name as we make it available in the market at an affordable price, without compromising quality. GMA Network has teamed up with the best product developers and engineers to give you a device built with additional features and high-quality materials at an accessible price. Now, more Filipino homes can start enjoying digital TV viewing,” GMA Network President and COO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr. stated.
With a sleek black metal casing that is set to endure years of TV viewing, GMA Affordabox provides superior digital reception as well as additional features that will take the users’ entertainment experience to a whole new level. It comes with a built-in multimedia player that makes it an all-around digital file access device allowing users to play compatible video files, view photos, and even listen to music using a USB drive.
“Aside from providing superior digital reception, we also wanted Filipino homes to enjoy additional features that are built to suit their lifestyle,” said GMA Network Chief Risk Officer and First Vice President for Corporate Strategic Planning and Concurrent Head for Program Support Regie C. Bautista.
Another advanced function of the GMA Affordabox is its personal video recorder that allows viewers to record GMA, GMA News TV, and Heart of Asia programs so they never have to miss any of their favorite Kapuso shows. Affordabox users can watch and re-watch highlights of the shows by instant or scheduled recording.
In addition to the one-of-a-kind features exclusively available for GMA channels, the device also has a nationwide Emergency Warning Broadcast System (EWBS) that receives alerts from the NDRRMC about any calamity warnings in their area. It will automatically set off an alarm during emergencies with its functional auto-on alert feature for every household’s safety and preparedness.
For just a one-time purchase of P888 and no monthly fees, each GMA Affordabox unit promises to deliver a clearer and more vibrant TV viewing experience along with other bonus features.
It is now for sale online and in stores for the following areas where GMA's digital signal is already available: Metro Manila, Benguet, La Union, Pangasinan, Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Bohol, Cebu, Leyte, Davao de Oro, Davao del Sur, and Davao del Norte.
For more details, visit www.GMAaffordabox.com and its official social media accounts via the handle @GMAaffordabox. For inquiries, contact the hotline (02) 8857-4627 within Metro Manila from 8AM to 10PM or 0961-252-9393 for outside Metro Manila, or e-mail support@GMAaffordabox.com. (30)
New online show “Juan Love: Pag-ibig sa Panahon ng Pandemya” premieres this June 20
Beginning this Saturday (June 20), GMA News and Public Affairs debuts the newest addition to its roster of online shows with “Juan Love: Pag-ibig sa Panahon ng Pandemya”.
“Juan Love: Pag-ibig sa Panahon ng Pandemya” features stories about love in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic.
For its pilot episode, fall in love with the story of Lolo Rogelio who needed to be isolated from his wife who tested for COVID-19.
At the height of the community quarantine, the 76-year-old left their house to look for his wife, Lola Erlinda. Because of his Alzheimer's Disease, Lolo Rogelio forgets that Lola Erlinda was in a quarantine facility. Lolo Rogelio yearns to be reunited with the love of his life. Will he get to see his wife once more?
Watch their story in “Juan Love: Pag-ibig sa Gitna ng Pandemya”, this Saturday night on GMA News and Public Affairs’ social media accounts. (30)
GMA Network’s 25-year franchise renewed prior to expiry
GMA Network, Inc. clarifies the case of its franchise renewal as it has been cited several times recently in light of the current situation of fellow broadcast network, ABS-CBN.
Formerly known as Republic Broadcasting System, Inc., GMA Network obtained its original 25-year franchise through Republic Act No. 7252 or “An Act Granting the Republic Broadcasting System, Inc. a Franchise to Construct, Install, Operate and Maintain Radio and Television Broadcasting Stations in the Philippines.”
The said act was signed into law on March 20, 1992; became effective on May 12, 1992 – fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette on April 27, 1992; and as such, was valid until May 12, 2017.
On April 21, 2017 – 22 days prior to the expiry of the original franchise – President Rodrigo Duterte signed Republic Act No. 10925 or “An Act Renewing For Another Twenty-Five (25) Years The Franchise Granted To Republic Broadcasting System, Inc., Presently Known As GMA Network, Inc., Amending For The Purpose Republic Act No. 7252, Entitled An Act Granting The Republic Broadcasting System, Inc. a Franchise to Construct, Install, Operate and Maintain Radio and Television Broadcasting Stations in the Philippines.”
Given this, it is important to note that that there is no parity of circumstances between the two broadcast networks. And that there is no truth to statements claiming that GMA continued its operations despite the expiration of its franchise, which was in fact renewed earlier than its expiry date. (30)
FRANCHESCA S. VISTAL
Corporate and International Publicity
Corporate Affairs & Communications Department
GMA Network Inc.
Kapuso Foundation continues much needed aid to frontliners, Filipinos
GMA Kapuso Foundation (GMAKF)’s ‘Labanan Natin ang COVID-19’ campaign, GMA Network’s response efforts to help the nation battle the pandemic, has so far extended help to medical frontliners in 35 public hospitals and 26,349 individuals in various poverty stricken areas.
Through the funds raised from the public and partners from the private sector, GMAKF distributed 107,000 pairs of gloves, 23,996 pieces of surgical masks, 1,500 N95 masks, 4,600 face shields, 4,580 500-ml bottles of rubbing alcohol, 4,400 pieces of germicidal soap, and 5,600 sets of personal protective equipment for public hospital workers.
In addition, 26,532 bottles of purified/mineral water, 15,062 packs of bread/snacks and 130 blankets and folding beds were provided as GMAKF expresses its gratitude for those who tirelessly take care of COVID-19 patients.
The basic medical supplies were given to 35 public hospitals within Metro Manila as well as in Cagayan, Benguet, Pampanga, Bulacan, Marinduque, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Samar, Leyte, Lanao del Sur, and up to Sulu.
Also under the campaign is the ‘Operation Bayanihan: COVID-19’ to help Filipinos and their families who have lost their sources of income due to the enhanced community quarantine.
As of April 28, fully loaded Kapuso grocery packs were given to 26,349 individuals from communities with a large concentration of daily wage earners. The donations were successfully packed and delivered to the beneficiaries with the help of the Philippine Army and Kapuso angels. Aside from areas in Metro Manila, GMAKF was also able to reach some barangays in Rizal, Bulacan, Laguna, and Cavite.
GMAKF continues to accept monetary donations as distributions are still on-going until May 26 for both efforts.
Visit GMAKF’s official website at www.gmanetwork.com/kapusofoundation/donate.
Donations may be sent to all Cebuana Lhuillier branches nationwide, and online by purchasing GMA Kapuso Foundation vouchers on Shopee and Zalora. Metrobank credit card rewards points may also be converted to GMAKF donations. (30)
A new decade of cutting-edge entertainment:
GMA Network rings in 70th anniversary with world-class programs
Broadcast giant GMA Network upholds its perennial legacy of bringing pioneering and innovative programs as it welcomes the new decade with a solid line-up of world-class offerings.
For its 70th anniversary, the country’s most trusted TV network proudly brings together Filipinos worldwide through heartfelt stories of love, hope, and breakthroughs bannered by the biggest names in the industry.
The TV adaptation of the popular 1984 Regal Films movie, ‘Anak ni Waray vs. Anak ni Biday’ brings together a remarkable cast composed of Primetime Princess Barbie Forteza, Kate Valdez, Ms. Snooky Serna, and Ms. Dina Bonnevie. Anak ni Waray vs. Anak ni Biday, which also features Migo Adecer, Jay Manalo, Jean Saburit, Teresa Loyzaga, Faith Da Silva, Tanya Montenegro, Benedict Cua, and Ms. Celia Rodriguez, is a dramedy series that revolves on the lives of Ginalyn (Barbie) and Caitlyn (Kate), and their mothers Amy (Snooky) and Sussie (Dina). The series also features Kapuso actresses Lovi Poe and Max Collins in special appearances as young Dina Bonnevie and young Snooky Serna together with Jason Abalos, Pinky Amador, Mike ‘Pekto’ Nacua, Yanna Montenegro, and Franco Gray Nerona. Mark Sicat dela Cruz is at the helm of this primetime soap.
All set to do anything and everything for love are the intriguing characters of the much-awaited series, ‘Love of my Life’, top-billed by Carla Abellana, Mikael Daez, and Rhian Ramos; also starring Ms. Coney Reyes and sought-after leading man Tom Rodriguez in a very special role. Despite his mother, Isabella’s (Coney) wishes, Stefano (Tom) marries the love of his life, Adelle (Carla). Just as they were getting settled, his ex-girlfriend, Kelly (Rhian), barges into their lives with a shocking surprise. Things get even more complicated with the arrival of his brother, Nikolai (Mikael). Don Michael Perez directs this inspirational family drama.
Showcasing an endearing love story like no other is the local adaptation of the global hit, Descendants of the Sun (DOTS), headlined by Kapuso Primetime King Dingdong Dantes as Captain Lucas Manalo or ‘Big Boss’ and Ultimate Star Jennylyn Mercado as Dr. Maxine dela Cruz a.k.a. ‘Beauty’. Joining them in reporting for duty are Rocco Nacino as Diego Ramos or ‘Wolf’ and Jasmine Curtis-Smith as Moira Defensor; together with the Soldiers Team: Antonio Aquitania, Ricardo Cepeda, Paul Salas, Lucho Ayala, Jon Lucas, Prince Clemente; the Doctors and Nurses Team: Andre Paras, Chariz Solomon, Renz Fernandez, Nicole Donesa, Jenzel Angeles, Reese Tuazon. DOTS also stars Neil Ryan Sese, Ian Ignacio, Rich Asuncion, Marina Benipayo, Hailey Mendes, and Roi Vinzon. Viewers should also look forward to surprise cameo appearances of exciting artists. This flagship project of the Network is under the direction of Dominic Zapata.
Another sensational adaptation Kapuso viewers should look forward to is the remake of the 1989 award-winning blockbuster movie by Regal Films, ‘Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit’, top-billed by Superstar Nora Aunor in the iconic character of Cedes. The series also stars Ms. Mylene Dizon and Kyline Alcantara as Magnolia Dela Cruz and Maggie. Joining them are Zoren Legaspi, Gabby Eigenmann, Ina Feleo, Yasser Marta, Divina Valencia, and Isabel Rivas. Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit is directed by Laurice Guillen.
Making his long-awaited comeback to GMA-7 is Sen. Bong Revilla, Jr. in ‘Agimat Ng Agila’. In this drama-fantasy series, Kapuso fans will be able to join him soar as he takes them along on action-packed adventures as he protects the earth and the environment while tackling moral lessons and various societal issues.
More captivating dramas are in store for Kapuso viewers: the much-awaited series ‘First Yaya’, which features the first pair-up of two of the Network’s prime stars – Kapuso Primetime Queen Marian Rivera-Dantes and multi-awarded actor Gabby Concepcion, together with Pancho Magno; the ground-breaking series ‘Legal Wives’, top-billed by Kapuso Drama King Dennis Trillo and Bianca Umali; the heart-tugging drama ‘Babawiin Ko Ang Lahat’, starring John Estrada, Pauline Mendoza, and Ms. Carmina Villarroel; love and revenge take a different spin in ‘Seed of Love’, headlined by award-winning actress Glaiza de Castro, Valerie Concepcion, and Mike Tan; while romance and action mix in ‘Sanggang Dikit’ which reunites on-screen real-life couple Derek Ramsay and Andrea Torres.
Meanwhile, award-winning GMA News Pillar Vicky Morales takes on a new role in the reality-drama program ‘Ilaban Natin ‘Yan!’ Viewers will see a new side of Vicky as she helps families resolve their issues by reaching out to the people in the barangays, getting into the root of their problems, and encouraging them to make positive changes in their lives. ‘Ilaban Natin ‘Yan!’ will employ experts and resource persons who will help ordinary Filipinos share and resolve their issues that they can relate to such as social media and gaming addiction, teen suicide, sibling rivalry, inheritance disputes, juvenile delinquency, child support and custody battles, adultery and other problems.
From the team that produced well-loved TV series I Heart Davao, Inday Will Always Love You, TODA One I Love, and One of the Baes, GMA Public Affairs proudly presents its top-notch primetime offerings this 2020 which include the mystery-drama series ‘Lolong’ and two upcoming romantic comedy series ‘Owe My Love’ and ‘Taiwan and Only’.
Lolong sees Kapuso Action Drama Prince Ruru Madrid in his biggest break to date as he takes on the titular role Lolong, a young man whose identity is shrouded in mystery. Joining Ruru in the series are Sanya Lopez and Kim Domingo.
GMA Network amps up the noontime fun and entertainment via ‘All-Out Sundays’, which debuted last January 5. Complete with incredible musical performances, dance numbers, and comedic skits, #AOS made waves both on social media and TV ratings.
Avid viewers will have the chance to spend more time with well-loved Kapuso host Willie Revillame as he extends the fun, suspense, and excitement of the country’s top-rating variety program Wowowin until Saturdays via Wowowin Primetime.
It’s all about non-stop entertainment on the upcoming game show Catch Me Out Philippines; while dreams come true anew on the third season of The Clash. And finally, discover a new breed of talent on Centerstage and Sing 4 Hearts.
This 2020, expect nothing but world-class entertainment as the station with a heart celebrates seven colourful decades of making a difference in the lives of Filipinos all over the world.
For more Kapuso updates, visit GMA Network’s official website on www.GMANetwork.com and its official social media accounts. (30)
GMA Network’s primetime series ‘Anak Ni Waray Vs. Anak Ni Biday’ unveils touching tale between friends-turned-foes
Beginning January 27, the most sensational rivalry ensues between friends-turned-mortal enemies from two different regions on GMA Network's TV adaptation of the hit 1984 movie by Regal Films, 'Anak Ni Waray Vs. Anak Ni Biday.'
The much-awaited reimagining of the classic film is headlined by two of the Network’s brightest stars – Kapuso Primetime Princess Barbie Forteza as Ginalyn and promising young Kapuso actress Kate Valdez as Caitlyn. The drama also highlights famous tourist destinations from the provinces of Leyte and Ilocos namely the iconic San Juanico Bridge and the thrilling Paoay Sand Dunes.
Barbie shares that she took classes to learn the Waray dialect but what she mostly enjoyed was immersing herself into their culture, “Tinuro sa amin how they live, kung papaano sila magtrabaho para sa family nila. Nakakatuwa kasi parehas na may strong personality ang mga taga-Leyte at Ilocos. Ang sarap gampanan ng role ko kasi very empowering siya especially sa mga kababaihan. Kilala ang mga Waray na palaban at hindi papatalo.”
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Ruru Madrid talks about a love worth pursuing in second single ‘Maghihintay’
Starting the year with a blast, Kapuso Action Drama Prince Ruru Madrid just dropped his second single under GMA Music entitled ‘Maghihintay.’
The song, composed by Mark Atienza, narrates the “waiting game” or how a man is willing to wait for the right time to get to the heart of the woman she loves.
Ruru shared how he finds the song very romantic and relatable, “Hindi siya hugot na masakit, makakapag-bigay siya ng hope. Masarap pakinggan, feel-good. Para siya sa mga taong hoping doon sa taong gusto nila makasama habambuhay.”
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GMA Network offers all-out entertainment with new Musical-Comedy-Variety Show, All-Out Sundays!
Beginning January 5, Kapuso viewers are in for a treat this New Year as the brightest Kapuso stars gather to bring all-out entertainment for the whole family on GMA Network’s freshest musical-comedy-variety program, All-Out Sundays.
Also dubbed as #AOS, All-Out Sundays redefines Sunday afternoon viewing experience of Filipino households with its world-class musical performances, exciting games and live sitcom every week that are sure to spread good vibes and kilig to its viewers.
Even more so, Sunday noontime becomes best family screen time with All-Out Sundays as it brings together some of the Network’s versatile and best performing artists on weekend primetime.
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