GMA Affordabox breaks 1 million mark in first seven months

27 Jan, 2021, No comments

GMA Network hits another milestone with one million units of its digital TV receiver GMA Affordabox sold in just seven months after its launch.

Staying true to GMA’s goal of enabling millions of households to access high-quality yet affordable TV viewing experience, GMA Affordabox is priced at only P888 with no monthly fees.

“We, at GMA Network, express our gratitude to our Kapuso viewers for their continued trust and for wholeheartedly welcoming GMA Affordabox into their homes. Rest assured that we always aim to provide superior quality content across all platforms and improve our digital TV products that are accessible to many Filipinos,” said GMA Network Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon.

Boosting the country’s digital TV shift, each unit comes with superior digital TV reception and bonus features that suit every user’s lifestyle. Viewers can catch all the Kapuso channels GMA, GMA News TV, Heart of Asia, Hallypop, as well as DepEd TV, and other available free-to-air channels in digital broadcast in their areas.

As GMA Network expands its digital broadcast coverage, more and more Filipinos are able to use GMA Affordabox. Recently, Misamis Oriental (including Cagayan de Oro City) and Camiguin were added to its coverage areas. It is also available in selected towns/cities within 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.

Leading the success of GMA Affordabox is Senior Vice President for Corporate Strategic Planning and Business Development, Chief Risk Officer, and Head for Program Support Regie C. Bautista.

“We believe that every Filipino home should be able to enjoy digital viewing, which is why GMA endeavored to bring GMA Affordabox to our market. Quality digital TV viewing is now made accessible to the majority of Filipino homes. It’s exciting to hit the one million mark only months into its launch and we are very grateful for the support of our Kapuso viewers,” Bautista said.

This 2021, GMA Network is also set to launch its digital TV mobile receiver, GMA Now, which will allow users to watch TV on the go for free.

GMA Network unites all hearts with “Isang Puso Ngayong Pasko

19 Nov, 2020, No comments

This year has been exceptionally challenging for us, Filipinos. We have braved the effects of the Taal Volcano eruption, the global pandemic, and most recently, the onslaught of typhoons Rolly and Ulysses. As 2020 draws to a close, GMA Network ushers the Holiday season by unifying our hearts' utmost desire that amidst the circumstances, better days will be ahead through its Christmas Station ID, “Isang Puso Ngayong Pasko.”

“Isang Puso Ngayong Pasko” puts the spotlight on the innate kindness of Filipinos and the love we have for each other that fuels our resilience, and most importantly, the strength of our faith in God.

The Kapuso Network’s heartwarming campaign features its various artists and news and public affairs personalities expressing their sincerest gratitude to everyone who extended their hand to those in great need, most especially to the frontliners who continue to help fellow Filipinos battle the COVID-19 pandemic, the first responders who rushed to the scenes of devastation to rescue and evacuate those in peril, and to Filipinos who opened their hearts in their own simple ways.

Moreover, the station ID shows the Kapuso artists' several initiatives to help and uplift the spirits of their kababayans – a lot of them gave out food for the frontliners such as couple Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera who even prepared the meals herself; Alden Richards who donated food from his restaurant; Dennis Trillo and Jennylyn Mercado who contributed essential supplies for the frontliners; the Eat Bulaga dabarkads who gave 3D printing machines for PPE production; Heart Evangelista who provided tablets for students to use in remote learning; Willie Revillame who gave generous donations to jobless jeepney drivers and to the people of Catanduanes; and many others who extended help in their own meaningful ways.

And with everything unfolding amidst the pandemic and numerous natural disasters, the men and women of GMA News and Public Affairs were also able to step up to the plate as they took their vow of Serbisyong Totoo to the next level by delivering timely news and information to the Filipinos.

The Network, through GMA Kapuso Foundation, likewise tirelessly provided aid to the medical frontliners and Filipino families in need, emulating true bayanihan spirit.

“Isang Puso Ngayong Pasko” brings together all hearts this Christmas and no pandemic will stop the Kapuso Network from remembering the true reason for this season.

With our resilient hearts working as one, we, Filipinos, will pick ourselves up, rebuild our lives, and work toward better days.

28 Films to Watch at Home for an Intimate Glimpse of Japanese Life and Culture

12 Nov, 2020, No comments

The Japan Foundation, Manila shifts its annual film festival from theaters to online in JFF Plus: Online Festival

MANILA and TOKYO – To continue sharing Japanese culture to the world amid the COVID 19 pandemic, the Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) migrates its highly-anticipated Japanese Film Festival to online platform with the same quality Japanese films right to every Filipino home through the JFF PLUS: ONLINE FESTIVAL.

For the digital edition of the Japan Film Festival, which runs from November 20 to 29, 2020, JFM has carefully curated 28 Japanese films of different genres to be screened via the JFF Plus: Online Festival portal https://watch.jff.jpf.go.jp/.

A response to the current social climate brought by the global pandemic, JFM Director Mr. SUZUKI Ben is excited with the new format for this.

“In this time when we can’t go out and visit places, films allow us to take glimpses into new worlds, experience things, see places and gain new perspectives while staying safe in the confines of our homes,” said Mr. Suzuki. "Online movies have become the trend because of the pandemic and the Internet as its venue for instant exchange of information and culture."

Not only is JFM excited with the new format, it is also optimistic that showing the featured films online can easily reach more Filipinos all over the country. Anyone with a smart TV, computer, mobile phone or similar gadget with access to the Internet can view the films at the comfort of their homes.

The full list of featured films and its streaming schedule are available at the JFF Plus: Online Festival website, which run by the Japan Foundation to spread Japanese films overseas. The portal serves as a gateway to Japanese culture.

JFM bid sayonara to the popular “EIGASAI” brand last March to embrace “Japanese Film Festival" with a fresh selection of fun and exciting films this November. In 2016, the Japan Foundation has re-branded its most-anticipated film event as the Japanese Film Festival with the same mission to promote Japanese film around the world. It remains an avenue to celebrate Japanese culture in the Philippines and increase people’s interest in Japanese films, as well as bridge the Asia-Pacific film market and the Japanese film industry for possible collaborations.

The JFF Plus: Online Festival is made possible together with Japan Foundation Asian Center, in partnership with JT International (Philippines), the Film Development Council of the Philippines, the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines and SM Cinema.

To view the full schedule of the films, visit http://jff.jpf.go.jp/ or the JFM website (http://www.jfmo.org.ph). Follow the official JFM Facebook page and social media accounts.

About the Japan Foundation, Manila

The Japan Foundation was established in 1972 by special legislation in the Japanese Diet and became an Independent Administrative Institution in October 2003. The mission of the Japan Foundation is to promote international cultural exchange and mutual understanding between Japan and other countries. As the 18th overseas office, the Japan Foundation, Manila was founded in 1996, active in three focused areas: Arts and Culture; Japanese Studies and Intellectual Exchange; Japanese-Language Education Overseas. For more information please visit our website at www.jfmo.org and Facebook.

First virtual Concert “Alden’s Reality” on December 8

12 Nov, 2020, No comments

Here’s how to be part of “Alden’s Reality” on December 8

Mark your calendars for the first ever virtual reality concert in the Philippines, Alden’s Reality (AR), happening this December 8.

Alden’s Reality celebrates the 10^th anniversary in the entertainment industry of Asia’s Multimedia Star Alden Richards and will utilize the cutting-edge technology of a virtual reality to bring the Kapuso star closer to his fans.

And since it’s online, concert-goers from all over the world can enjoy a night full of energetic and powerful performances in a one-of-a-kind viewing experience produced by Synergy: A GMA Collaboration.

For those who have yet to secure their e-ticket, here’s how:

1. Head over to www.GMANetwork.com/synergy and create an account. A form will pop-up where you can input your personal details and click the “sign up” button. Wait for the confirmation to be sent to your email to verify your account and direct you to the site’s log in page.

2. Go to the Home page and Buy Ticket. Scroll down the Home page and find the ‘Buy Ticket’ option. This will take you to the event calendar where you can pick a preferred date and timeslot to attend the concert. Choose carefully as all ticket sales are final once purchased. Be sure to click the READ TICKET DESCRIPTION for a final review of your details.

3. Select your desired ticket. There are two kinds of tickets: GENERAL ADMISSION and VIP (inclusive of one VR device and is limited to Philippine residents only). Afterwards, click Continue. Note that you can only buy one ticket per transaction.

4. Choose a payment method. Payment instructions will flash on the screen to show different payment channels. Once paid, you will receive your e-ticket via email, along with other details on accessing the virtual reality concert.

5. Check your GMA Synergy account. You may view your e-ticket anytime through the ticket page on your GMA Synergy account.

6. Wait for the link. Five days before the actual date of Alden’s Reality (AR), a link will be sent to your email to access the concert. Please be reminded that you cannot share this link with others.

7. Be part of Alden’s Reality (AR)! On December 8, just click on the link and prepare for an immersive experience!

GMA Network airs Miss Universe Philippines this Sunday

23 Oct, 2020, No comments

GMA Network proudly airs the much-anticipated and most prestigious pageant of the year ‘Miss Universe Philippines’ this Sunday, October 25.

For the first time ever, there will be no live audience and with a limited production staff to ensure the safety of everyone.

All pre-pageant events including the preliminary interview, national costume, swimsuit and evening gown, and grand finale are all to be filmed at the Baguio Country Club in Baguio City, in adherence to the FDCP - DOH Health and Safety Protocols for the Conduct of Film and Audiovisual Production Shoots to Mitigate COVID-19.

GMA First Vice President for Program Management Jose Mari R. Abacan expressed his enthusiasm in partnering with Miss Universe Philippines, “GMA has always been open to partnerships with independent producers, and so we are very pleased that the organization behind the Miss Universe Philippines pageant approached us about this landmark project. This being the first edition of the tilt, it will always have a special place in the hearts of pageant enthusiasts.”

Who will be crowned the winner and bag the highly-coveted title? Don't miss the grand coronation of Miss Universe Philippines at 9AM with a replay at 10:30PM on GMA-7 this Sunday, October 25.

“Descendants of the Sun: The Philippine Adaptation” returns to primetime on Monday, October 26

23 Oct, 2020, No comments

The wait is almost over for loyal Kapuso viewers as GMA Network’s internationally-acclaimed series, “Descendants of the Sun: The Philippine Adaptation,” finally returns to primetime beginning October 26.

Its lead stars – Primetime King Dingdong Dantes and Ultimate Star Jennylyn Mercado are equally excited for the series’ highly-anticipated comeback on GMA Telebabad.

“Sa TV audience, meron kaming promise na binigay sa kanila when we started airing, and that was na kukumpletuhin namin ‘yung kuwento. So this is us fulfilling that promise,” Dingdong shared. “Kaya gusto namin i-share ‘yung excitement sa aming pagbabalik. DOTS makes us proud to be Kapuso and proud Filipinos so much more.”

Jennylyn echoed his sentiments, “Sobrang excited na ako that people will be able to watch ‘yung pinaghirapan namin ng cast and crew. We’re very proud of how the series turned out, and we hope na patuloy subaybayan ng Kapuso viewers ang Descendants of the Sun. Finally ay magpapatuloy na ang kuwento nina Capt. Lucas at Doc Maxine.”

Also eager for the continuation of the story are Rocco Nacino and Jasmine Curtis-Smith who play Wolf and Captain Moira, respectively.

Rocco shared that he is proud to be part of a series that has left a significant mark in the entertainment industry, “We are coming back at excited na excited na kami. We’re all very proud of a project that has made a difference and has become a game-changer in this field. It’s nice to know that you’re part of something na tumatak sa mga tao, hindi lang sa Pilipinas kundi pati sa ibang bansa.”

Meanwhile, Jasmine highlighted the relevance of the series especially for frontliners during these challenging times, “Nakaka-proud na maging part ng DOTS, not just because of the recognitions that it has, but also because it’s a timely and relevant series. It’s nice that we are able to somehow humanize our frontliners and give them representation before, even more so now. In a way, the series gives them love and comfort while watching it because they know that they are seen and appreciated. “

The series left off with Capt. Lucas (Dingdong) and Dr. Maxine (Jennylyn) eciding that the two of them were better off apart because they lead very different lives. And with the medical team’s mission in Urdan coming to an end, they bid their farewells to their friends and the military members. In the midst of their flight back to Manila, an intense earthquake strikes Urdan and records multiple casualties.

DOTS premiered on February 10 but production was temporarily halted due to the restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Last month, lock-in tapings which followed strict safety protocols were held which enabled the production team to wrap up the series.

DOTS is under the direction of Dominic Zapata.

Don’t miss the much-awaited return of “Descendants of the Sun: The Philippine Adaptation,” starting with recap episodes on October 26 and fresh episodes beginning November 5, after ‘Encantadia’ on GMA Telebabad.

GMA executive joins AFP Health Service Command’s Multi-Sector Advisory Board

23 Oct, 2020

GMA Network’s Regional TV and Synergy Vice President and Head Oliver Victor Amoroso has been selected as a distinct member of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Health Service Command Transformation Roadmap (AFPHSCTR) Multi-Sector Advisory Board (MSAB).

The MSAB was formed in response to AFPHSCTR’s commitment to promote good governance, transparency, and accountability within the framework of stakeholder consultation and engagement.

As part of the MSAB, Amoroso becomes one of the Transformation Roadmap Champions from the private sector who will help AFPHSC realize its vision of becoming “A World-Class Health Care Services Provider of the AFP by 2028.” He will also provide expert advice in the implementation of AFPHSCTR and assist in improving transparency and accountability in reporting performance.

As VP and Head of GMA Regional TV (RTV), Amoroso is in charge of the operations, content and production, and business development of the department, including its regional stations and offices located in North Central Luzon (GMA Dagupan and GMA Ilocos Stations), Southern Luzon (GMA Bicol Station), Central and Eastern Visayas (GMA Cebu Station), Western Visayas (GMA Iloilo and GMA Bacolod Stations), Northern Mindanao (GMA Cagayan de Oro Station), Southern Mindanao (GMA Davao Station), and South Central Mindanao (GMA General Santos Station).

Amoroso played a vital role in bringing the country's leading broadcast network closer to the regions – producing groundbreaking and award-winning local news programs and specials attuned to stories, voices, and viewership of Filipinos in the regions. He oversees the local news operations and production of GMA RTV’s news programs, namely “Balitang Amianan” in North Central Luzon; “Balitang Bisdak” in Central and Eastern Visayas; “One Western Visayas” in Western Visayas; One Mindanao in North, Central, and Southern Mindanao; and “GMA Regional TV Weekend News”. He also recently led the successful launch of regional morning shows “Mornings with GMA Regional TV” in North Central Luzon; “GMA Regional TV Live!” in Central and Eastern Visayas; “GMA Regional TV Early Edition” in Western Visayas; and “At Home with GMA Regional TV” in North, Central, and Southern Mindanao.

As GMA Network remains committed to local communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, Amoroso led GMA RTV's ‘Kapuso Barangayan on Wheels (KBOW),’ which reached out to various barangays across the country. Now on its second wave, a total of 6,830 family-beneficiaries have been given food packs and other essential items in 58 barangays all over the country. GMA RTV also conducted short lectures on proper hand sanitation, wearing of PPEs, social distancing, and other health protocols during these barangayan activities.

As head of GMA Network’s Synergy, Amoroso leads the group that produces ticketed and non-ticketed events and activities catering to all Filipinos across the globe. The team is behind “Alden’s Reality,” the country’s first ever virtual reality concert bannered by Asia’s Multimedia Star Alden Richards, which is slated on December 8.

Golden Cañedo's new single available on August 25

24 Aug, 2020

The Clash Season 1 Champion Golden Cañedo has a musical treat up her sleeve as she releases a new single under GMA Music entitled "Walang Hanggang Sandali."

She considers it a blessing to have been entrusted with a song composed by esteemed OPM artists Ebe Dancel, Yumi Lacsamana, Herbert Hernandez, and Jim Paredes.

The song was likewise a product of the 1st Filscap Master camp, the first major songwriting collaboration in the Philippines.

“I feel blessed and honored na ipinagkatiwala po nila sa akin ang kantang ito. I look up to them dahil sila ‘yung mga pinapakinggan ko noon and hinahangaan ko ‘yung mgakanta nila. And now ako na mismo ang kakanta ng gawa nila. Also, thankful din po ako sa GMA Network, GMA Artist Center, and GMA Music dahil ako ang napili nila namagbigay-buhay sa kantang ito.”

"Walang Hanggang Sandali” is about chance encounters and how destiny works behind-the-scenes in meeting the right person to love.

Having been in a relationship herself, Golden shared the feeling of finding her special someone,

“Siyempre si Lordtalaga ang nakakalaam kung sino ang nakatadhana para sa atin. At kapag dumating naang perfect time na ‘yun, ‘yun na ang magiging simula ng Walang Hanggang Sandali. Masarap ma-in love lalo na sa tamang tao.”

Beginning August 25, Golden’s new single will be available for streaming on Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music, and other digital platforms worldwide.