March 2019 Kapuso Magazine

New Program

Hiram na Anak

GMA Network Invests Over 1 Billion for the Second Phase of Digitization Project

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ON THE COVER: Tom Rodriguez and Janine Gutierrez

March 2019

CONTENTS NAR CABICO

KYRYLL

ANGEL GUARDIAN

Nar Cabico, Kyryll, and Angel Guardian Officially Join GMA Music

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he GMA Music family continues to grow as it welcomed GMA Artist Center talents Nar Cabico, Kyryll, and Angel Guardian in a contract signing last February 21.

Nar, who has been part of the toprating GMA series My Love From The Star and The One That Got Away, also produced the latter’s OST entitled ‘GAGA’, which is his chart-topping debut single. The single bagged the Best Novelty Recording award in the 31st Awit Awards. Moreover, his self-penned single ‘Natapos Tayo’, the official theme song of the film ‘All of You’, received the Movie Original Theme Song of the Year recognition at the 34th Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards. Aside from this, he is part of the upcoming primetime soap, Love You Two. Nar shared his happiness over this new chapter of his career, “I feel very privileged, hindi ko ma-encapsulate ‘yung nararamdaman ko. Parang responsibility na rin siguro ito and hindi pressure ‘yung nafi-feel ko.

I’m inspired kasi I don’t want to disappoint the listeners and I promise to do my very best.”

The Clash alumna, Kyryll, dubbed as the ‘Millennial Chick ng Iloilo’, not only belts out powerful renditions of songs

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE | MARCH 2019 ISSUE

but can also rap and play the guitar.

“Hindi ko ma-explain ‘yung saya na nararamdaman ko ngayon and I’m so grateful sa napakagandang opportunity na ito para sa akin,” she said. “Pangarap ko po talaga ‘to since bata pa ako, pangarap din ng parents ko, kaya inaalay ko po ito para sa kanila.”

Angel also talked about how it has always been her dream to pursue music. “Sobrang overwhelmed po ako kasi before, dream ko lang ito and ang focus ko lang talaga is acting, kaya hindi ako makapaniwala na nabigyan ako ng chance na mag-recording, first time kong ma-experience lahat ng ‘to.

Hindi pa rin nagsi-sink in sa akin na nandito na ako,” she shared. Aside from appearing in TV commercials and being a model, Angel is also seen in the top-rating primetime series Onanay as Chelsea.

Meanwhile, GMA Music Managing Director Rene Salta proudly welcomed the three artists, “Nagsasala tayo ng maraming artists na talagang mahuhusay kumanta, mga potential future stars kumbaga and we think sila ‘yun. Some write their own songs, so makakatulong ‘yun sa kanila and sa GMA Music.”

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Nar Cabico, Kyryll, and Angel Guardian Officially Join GMA Music

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GMA Network Increases Nationwide Lead in February

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GMA Network Invests over P1 Billion for the Second Phase of Digitization

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Rotary Annual Peace Award Ten Outstanding Movers of the Philippines (TOMP), Champion of Life and Heroes of the Environment Award Metrobank Foundation Partner in Empowerment. Advocacy and Commitment to Excellence (PEACE) 11th Ani ng Dangal of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Gawad Ulat

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Dragon Lady

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GMA News TV International Airs 2nd National Basketball League Season

Hiram na Anak Panagbenga Festival

GMA Kapuso Magazine (Electronic) is a monthly publication of GMA Network, Inc. published by the Corporate Affairs Division, 16th Floor, GMA Network Center, EDSA cor. Timog, Ave., Diliman, Q.C. Trunkline No. (632) 982-7777.

RATINGS 3

GMA Network Increases Nationwide Lead in February GMA registered an average total day people audience share of 42.1 percent in Urban Luzon, which was way ahead of ABS-CBN’s 29.2 percent.

In Mega Manila, based on official data from February 1 to 23, the Network kept its dominance with an average total day people audience share of 43.9 percent, versus competition’s 26.6 percent.

Moreover, Kapuso shows also ruled the list of top-rating programs in NUTAM for the said period. Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS) solidified its position as the most-watched show among urban viewers nationwide, following its recent overnight people rating of 19.2 percent, which is its highest rating to date.

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eading broadcast company GMA Network posted better numbers in February, which resulted in increased margins over its competitor, based on the latest data from the industry’s widelytrusted ratings service provider Nielsen TV Audience Measurement.

For the month of February (with February 24 to 28 based on overnight data), GMA registered an average total day people audience share of 38.4 percent in the National Urban Television Audience Measurement (NUTAM), which topped ABS-CBN’s 34.6 percent.

Per day part, the Kapuso Network got 33.9 percent people audience share in the morning block, versus rival’s 28.5 percent.

GMA subsequently won in the afternoon block with 39.2 percent people audience share surpassing the 34.7 percent of ABSCBN. GMA also secured its leadership in the hotly contested evening block with 39.5 percent as against competition’s 36.9 percent.

The Kapuso Network likewise maintained its stronghold in the viewer-rich areas of Urban Luzon and Mega Manila, which respectively account for 72 and 60 percent of all urban viewers in the country.

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE | MARCH 2019 ISSUE

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GMA Network Invests Over P1 billion for the Second Phase of

Digitization Project L

eading media giant GMA Network, Inc. is investing over P1 billion to complete the second phase of its digitization project.

The second phase encompasses the production, post-production, content management and distribution of GMA and GMA News TV’s programs, starting with the commissioning of the Digital Terrestrial Transmitters that now provide superior digital TV signal reach, enabling the viewership of Kapuso programs through digitalenabled TV sets and set-top boxes in various areas in the country, including Mega Manila, North Central Luzon, Cebu, and Davao.

GMA is also slated to complete the upgrade of its Electronic Field Production capabilities to further improve its High Definition (HD) image capture to Full 2K/4K HD, elevating GMA Network’s output to true global standards. In anticipation, the requisite enhancements to the Network’s Media Asset Management and Broadcast Automation Systems have already been completed.

Post Production is likewise implementing full equipment and software upgrades coupled with increased storage and color grading

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE | MARCH 2019 ISSUE

capabilities to optimally process highend 2K and 4K HD formats.

GMA’s Field News Gathering capabilities are being similarly upgraded to enable the transmission and delivery of HD-captured remote live events to GMA Network’s Technical Operations Center as they happen.

In parallel with the upgrade to the MAMS is the commissioning of a new News Automation System (NAS) designed to provide the country’s most trusted news organization with even greater speed and agility in bringing viewers up-to-date news and information through the Network’s eight news programs — Unang Hirit, 24 Oras, 24 Oras Weekend, Saksi, News To Go, Balitanghali, Quick Response Team, and State of the Nation with Jessica Soho.

“All these state-of-the-art upgrades are part of GMA Network’s ongoing digitization project to bring world class programming to our viewers here and abroad. We are excited to unveil more innovative offerings that will not only maintain our position as the country’s leading broadcast network but will also revolutionize the TV viewing experience in the Philippines,” GMA Network Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon said.

AWARDS 5

2019

Rotary Annual Peace Award

Ten Outstanding Movers of the Philippines (TOMP) Champion of Life and Heroes of the Environment Award

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iangco was cited for her excellence not only as a multi-awarded news anchor and as the program host of GMA’s Magpakailanman drama anthology, but also in her inspiring humanitarian work as the Founder and Ambassador of GMA Kapuso Foundation (GMAKF). She was the first awardee among journalists.

The Rotary Peace Award is given to individuals who represent the ideals of peace, fellowship, and world understanding.

Mel Tiangco Awardee

Jessica Soho Awardee

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he award recognizes the selfless and exemplary contribution of Filipinos in the pursuit of making the world a safe, secured, peaceful, orderly, prosperous and meaningful to live.

11th Ani ng Dangal of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)

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ni ng Dangal recognizes Filipino and Filipino works in the field of arts that brought glory to the country in the past year.

Metrobank Foundation Partner in Empowerment.

Advocacy and Commitment to Excellence (PEACE) Reel Time (Hawla) Ani ng Dangal recognition

GMA Network Honoree

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etrobank Foundation bestows the PEACE recognition to select institutions that are commited to uplifting the lives of the least in the society and recognizes the best of the Filipinos

Gawad Ulat

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he “Gawad Ulat” awards acknowledge the efforts of individuals, groups or organizations whose panata or vow is to share their resources and time in providing a better opportunity for the disadvantaged sectors.

GMA Network

Gawad Ulat Most DSWDSupportive TV Station

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE | MARCH 2019 ISSUE

6 COVER

May swerte. May sumpa. May sikreto.

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE | MARCH 2019 ISSUE

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MA Network unfolds a captivating story about love, revenge and the intriguing legend of Dragon worship set in a bustling Filipino-Chinese community via the original Afternoon Prime fantasy drama—Dragon Lady.

Headlined by Janine Gutierrez and Tom Rodriguez, Dragon Lady is the first team-up of two of the Network’s soughtafter and top-caliber actors to date.

COVER 7 Janine breathes life into Celestina Sanchez, a young lady who is born with dragon-like features. Her physical traits and mystical power unleash the independent and fierce lady boss in her, the Dragon Lady that she is destined to be.

businessman who is a descendant of a family of dragon worshippers; Isabelle De Leon as young Vera; Denise Barbacena as young Ginger; Mosang as young Doray; Carlene Aguilar as young Philippa; and Lorenz Martinez as young Wilson Lim.

Tom is the Filipino-Chinese Michael Chan.

Adventurous and a non-conformist, he refuses to meddle with the family business. Forced to prove his mettle to his Chinese family, he allows himself to become instrumental in the downfall of Celestina who later on he falls for so passionately.

Rafael Rosell will have a special participation as Matthew Chan, the responsible and hardworking older brother of Michael with a secret of his own.

Playing vital roles in the lives of Celestina and Michael are James Blanco as Bryan Atienza, Celestina’s father figure; Diana Zubiri as Almira Sanchez, Celestina’s mother who loves her unconditionally and protects her at all costs; Maricar De Mesa as Vera Lim-Chua, a Chinese heiress who looks down on people not of the same stature as her; Joyce Ching as Astrid Chua, Vera’s daughter who will be Celestina’s greatest rival in business and in love; and Edgar Allan Guzman as Goldwyn Chen, a business tycoon who came from a rich Chinese family who criticizes Celestina’s capability to run a business.

Also starring in this fascinating series are Odette Khan as Doray, trusted assistant of the Lim’s; Dexter Doria as Philippa Chua, a formidable Chinese woman and Vera’s motherin-law; Lovely Abella as Ginger Garcia, funny, free-spirited and loyal best friend of Almira; Julie Lee as Lotus, Vera’s sophisticated friend; DJ Durano as James Liu, right-hand man of Vera.

The pilot week of Dragon Lady features Bea Binene as young Almira; Derrick Monasterio as young Charles; and Kristoffer Martin as young Bryan; together with Mr. Leo Martinez as Wilson Lim, Vera’s father and a ruthless

The series highlights that life can be led by luck, hard work and misfortunes. How can a man unlock a woman’s potential and liberate her spirit by unravelling a family’s deeply guarded secret?

The series is a product of the visionary minds of John Kenneth U. De Leon, Erwin Caezar Bravo (Brainstormers); John Borgy Danao, Christine B. Novicio (Writers); Renato Custodio, Jr. (head writer); under the tutelage of the Creative Team headed

by Aloy Adlawan (Creative Director); Dode Cruz (Creative Head); Kit Langit (Creative Consultant); under the capable supervision of the Production team headed by Ms. Lilybeth G. Rasonable (SVP For EG), Ms. Redgie Magno (VP For Drama), Ms. Cheryl Ching-Sy (AVP for Drama), Ms. Hazel Felizmenio Abonita (Senior Program Manager), Mr. James Manabat (Executive Producer).

At the helm of this upcoming series is respected film and TV director Paul Sta. Ana. He was known for his well-loved films such as Oros, Huling Pasada, Mayohan and #Walang Forever. Direk Paul was the director of the longest-running soap for 2018, The Stepdaughters.

Kapuso viewers from across the globe can also catch their favorite Kapuso shows via GMA’s international channels GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV International. For the program guide, visit www. gmapinoytv.com.

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE | MARCH 2019 ISSUE

8 NEW PROGRAM

Dion Ignacio Yasmien Kurdi

Leanne Bautista

Yasmien Kurdi Showcases Drama Prowess Anew in Hiram na Anak T

hey say a mother’s love is unconditional. But how can you love a child whom you have treated as your own, after finding out that her true parents ruined your dreams of raising your real daughter?

GMA Network presents another enthralling tale of a mother’s love for a daughter she raised as her own in Hiram Na Anak, topbilled by outstanding and highlytalented artists Yasmien Kurdi and Dion Ignacio, together with Paolo Contis and Lauren Young.

After 10 years, Yasmien and Dion reunite to breathe life into the characters of Miren and Adrian, a happily married couple. Miren is a simple, loving, and kind woman who works as a midwife. Adrian, on the other hand, is a faithful gentleman and her one great love. Unfortunately, Miren has difficulties conceiving a child and the couple decides to adopt—a decision that dramatically changes the course of their lives.

Joining them are equally versatile artists Paolo Contis as Benjo, a street-smart and

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE | MARCH 2019 ISSUE

arrogant former seafarer; and Lauren Young as Dessa, a strong-willed woman who never got over her anger towards her parents.

Tagasa; Writers Maria Prescilla Hidalgo and Anna Aleta Nadela; and Brainstormers Hilda Marcelino and Roda Sulit Marino.

Playing a very special role in the series is Empress Schuck as Wena, a doting yet naïve department store saleslady who falls for Benjo.

The series is another original creation of the GMA Drama group under the supervision of Senior Vice President for Entertainment Group Lilybeth G. Rasonable; Vice President for Drama Redgie Acuña-Magno; Assistant Vice President for Drama Cheryl ChingSy; Senior Program Manager Cathy Ochoa Perez, Executive Producer Omar Sortijas.

Adding color to Miren and Adrian’s lives are talented actors and actresses: Rita Avila as Hilda, Adrian’s elder sister who is selfcentered, clingy, and possessive; Vaness del Moral as Alma, Miren’s cheery older sister who loves and protects her very much; Sef Cadayona as Vince, Adrian’s best friend since high school who also grows close to Miren; Maey Bautista as Engke, Miren and Adrian’s trusted helper at home; Leanne Bautista as Duday, a smart, charming kid and the couple’s adopted daughter who will change the lives of everyone around her.

Behind this engrossing drama is the creative team composed of Creative Director Aloy Adlawan; Creative Consultant Denoy Navarro Punio; Headwriter Gina Marissa

Hiram na Anak showcases how a parent’s love remains selfless in the face of adversity, and how far they will always be willing to go for the sake of their child.

Under the helm of esteemed Director Gil Tejada, Jr. don’t miss the intriguing story of Hiram na Anak beginning February 25 on GMA7.

Kapuso viewers from across the globe can also catch their favorite Kapuso shows via GMA’s international channels GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV International. For the program guide, visit www.gmapinoytv.com.

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MA Network Excellence Award honors outstanding graduating students for their leadership, academic performance and social responsibility.

The nationwide search is open to all Mass Communication, Multimedia Arts, Advertising as well as Electronics and Communications Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science and Information Technology students graduating with Latin honors.

Please visit www.gmanetwork.com/excellenceaward or e-mail GMAExcellence@gmanetwork.com for criteria, mechanics, and other details.

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PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS

Janine Gutierrez and Tom Rodriguez aboard the Kapuso Float

The Inagaw na Bituin cast with the Panagbenga crowd

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE | MARCH 2019 ISSUE

A star-studded weekend in Baguio City as GMA Regional TV brought some of today’s hottest Kapuso stars to join in the celebration of the city’s colorful Panagbenga Festival.

The Kara Mia cast took a selfie with Kapuso fans

The Sahaya cast celebrated Panagbenga with Kapuso fans

TBATS duo Tekla and Boobay entertained fans

My Special Tatay lead actor Ken Chan serenaded a fan

KAPUSO ABROAD 11

GMA News TV International Airs 2nd National Basketball League Season (L-R) NBL Vice President and Basketball Operations Head Edward Aquino, NBL Executive Vice President Rhose Montreal, NBL Pilipinas Corp. President and Chairman Celso “Soy” Mercado, GMAI First Vice President and Head of Operations Joseph Francia, Assistant Vice President and Programming Head Cheri Domingo.

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apuso viewers abroad who are avid basketball fans can now watch the games of National Basketball League (NBL) Philippines on GMA News TV International (GNTV-I) beginning March 14.

GMA International (GMAI) recently inked a partnership with NBL, the newest communitybased league which showcases homegrown talents, to air its second conference abroad via GNTV-I, the Philippines’ most trusted news source which provides Filipinos overseas the latest, most comprehensive and credible news from home.

The signing was led by GMAI First Vice President and Head of Operations Joseph Francia and Assistant Vice President and Programming Head Cheri Domingo, together with NBL Pilipinas Corp. President and Chairman Celso “Soy” Mercado; Executive Vice President Rhose Montreal; and Vice President and Basketball Operations Head Edward Aquino.

Francia shared how Pinoys abroad look forward to watching local basketball games and how much they enjoy playing basketball in their communities. “Hinahanap talaga ng mga Kapuso natin sa abroad ‘yung basketball and according to our Kapuso values that ‘the viewer is boss’, we follow what the viewer wants. If the viewers want sports, specifically basketball, we have to give it to them.”

players and talents na hindi nabibigyan ng pagkakataon to play with other leagues.

Sa season na ito, sana mabigyan natin ng kasiyahan ang mga kababayan nating nasa ibang bansa dahil ito yung larong Pinoy.”

“On behalf of GMA Network, it’s an honor for us to be able to take your [NBL] games to your relatives and friends abroad. Hopefully, through this little effort of ours, muling mabuhay yung pagmamahal ng mga Pinoy sa sports lalo na sa communities abroad,” Francia added.

Participating teams for NBL’s second conference are Bulacan Starks, Cainta Titans, Camarines Sur Express, Dasmariñas Ballers, Imus Bandila, Iriga Oragons, Laguna Pistons, Nueva Ecija Ricemaker, Pampanga Delta, Pasig Rios, Parañaque Aces, Quezon City Rising Stars, Rizal Nationals, Taguig Generals, and Zamboanga Valientes.

On the other hand, Mercado said that this will be their league’s platform to show their fellow Filipinos how much they take pride on their players’ skills.

“GMA is NBL’s first-ever local TV partner and we will join forces to emphasize na maraming mahuhusay na homegrown

Also present during the signing were Kapuso celebrities and basketball enthusiasts Benjamin Alves and Gil Cuerva as well as representatives from various teams.

Catch the airing abroad of the National Basketball League’s second conference this March 14 only on GMA News TV International. To subscribe, visit www. gmanetwork.com/international/subscribe.

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE | MARCH 2019 ISSUE