May 2020 Kapuso Magazine by GMA New Media

The Most Important Woman in the World

GMA Entertainment Group Launches YoĂźLOL

We pay tribute to the dedicated women in our lives

The newest online destination for comedy and laughs

MAY 2020 KAPUSO MAGAZINE

CONTENTS PAYONG KAPUSO

The Most Important Woman in the World

We pay tribute to the dedicated women in our lives

GMA Network Sustains Ratings Lead Despite Programming Changes UPDATES

4 6 9 10 11 26

RATINGS

GMA Network Upholds Vow of Serbisyong Totoo Through Its News, Entertainment GMA Network Continues to Win Hearts All Over the Country Dobol B Sa News TV Celebrates 3rd Anniversary UPDATES

Stand for Truth Marks First Year with Record-Breaking Increase in Views Betong Sumaya Fulfills Another Dream COVER

Navigating the New Normal REGIONAL TV

GMA Regional TV Weekend News Returns to GMA News TV Local Newscasts Win Over Competition GMA Regional TV Live! Brings Fresh Start to Mornings

KAPUSO ABROAD

GMA International Bolsters Reach in Canada with Access Communications Co-operative Gone, But Never Forgotten: GMA Pinoy TV Honors Fallen Heroes of Pandemic Medical staff in Las Vegas Celebrate Pinay Nurse’s Recovery from COVID-19

GMA Network Wins Silver and Bronze at the New York Festivals Earning the most number of finalists for the Philippines

GMA Entertainment Group Launches YoüLOL The newest online destination for comedy and laughs

GMA Kapuso Magazine (Electronic) is a monthly publication of GMA Network, Inc. published by the Corporate Affairs and Communications Department, 16th Floor, GMA Network Center, EDSA cor. Timog, Ave., Diliman, Quezon City. Trunkline No. (632)8982-7777.

CITIZEN KAPUSO

Kapuso Foundation Continues Much Needed Aid to Frontliners, Filipinos Pusong Lumalaban: Kapuso Employees Pay Tribute to Our Frontliners

COVER GMA Network employees adapting to the new normal PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS GMA International GMA Admin/Uplink GMA News & Public Affairs

RATINGS 3

GMA Network Sustains Ratings Lead Despite Programming Changes The Network led in all day parts in NUTAM starting in the morning block with 26.9 percent people audience share compared to competition’s 24.8 percent. In the afternoon block, GMA was ahead of its rival with 28.7 percent versus 28.5 percent.

Jessica Soho

GMA further strengthened its winning streak in the evening block with 37.2 percent as against its counterpart’s 31.3 percent The Kapuso channel likewise remained strong across all day parts in its bailiwick areas Urban Luzon and Mega Manila. It recorded 33.4 percent total day people audience share in Urban Luzon while its competitor posted 25 percent. With official data from April 1 to 25, the Network tallied a bigger lead in Mega Manila with 33.8 percent total day people audience share; far from ABS-CBN’s 21.9 percent.

(L-R) Kylie Padilla, Gabbi Garcia, Sanya Lopez, and Glaiza de Castro

MA Network, which currently broadcasts a different programming line-up as a result of the quarantine implementation, sustained its top position as the Filipino viewers’ go-to channel for important news and superior entertainment during these times. The latest data from Nielsen TV Audience Measurement show that for the entire April (with April 26 to 30 based on overnight data), GMA registered 32.1 percent average total day people audience share in the National Urban Television Audience Measurement (NUTAM) while ABS-CBN only got 28.9 percent.

NIELSEN TV AUDIENCE MEASUREMENT

Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS) remains unbeatable in the number one spot nationwide as well as in the abovementioned viewer-rich areas. Still in the top spot as the most-watched news program nationwide is GMA’s flagship newscast 24 Oras. Joining KMJS and 24 Oras in the list of toprating programs for April – which includes reruns of select dramas — are Encantadia, Pepito Manaloto, Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko, Magpakailanman, Daddy’s Gurl, Wowowin Primetime, Kambal Karibal, Amazing Earth, Meant to Be, Eat Bulaga, 24 Oras Weekend, The Boobay and Tekla Show, Kapuso Movie Festival, Wowowin, and My Husband’s Lover.

Nielsen TV Audience Measurement’s client pool covers a total of 37 clients/subscribers consisting of local TV networks, regional clients, blocktimers, advertisers, and agencies.

GMA Network Upholds Vow of Serbisyong Totoo Through Its News, Entertainment Programs

n the face of a pandemic, GMA Network remains steadfast in its commitment to Serbisyong Totoo by delivering much-needed news and information while inspiring Filipinos through its quality programs. With the bigger responsibility entrusted to it, GMA News answered the call of duty for millions of Filipinos who needed to stay home due to the enhanced community quarantine. GMA’s news teams continue to brave the risks in the field to be able to bring to the public the much needed news and information during this crisis. Viewers recognized their dedication to Serbisyong Totoo. The Network’s flagship news program 24 Oras, which is being simulcast on both GMA and GMA News TV, emerged as the most-watched program nationwide reaching more Filipinos with a people rating of 23.6 percent or 11.4 million viewers. This is based on Nielsen’s Nationwide Urban Television Audience Measurement (NUTAM) data from May 6 to 12 (based on overnight ratings). 24 Oras is currently anchored by Jessica Soho, Vicky Morales, and Atom Araullo. The award-winning magazine show Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS) similarly posted high numbers with a people rating of 21.5 percent or 10.4 million viewers nationwide. Through the consistent ratings performance of these Kapuso programs, GMA was also able to capture more than half of the TV audience. The Network got an average of 54.5 percent total day people audience share or 4.8 million viewers.

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4 UPDATES

GMA Network Continues to Win Hearts All Over the Country

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE |MAY 2020 ISSUE

UPDATES 5

Standing by its promise of being Buong Puso Para Sa Pilipino as it marks its 70th year, the country’s largest broadcast firm GMA Network continues to win the hearts of Filipino audiences through its genuine public service. With a total of 52 stations and reaching over 80 million TV viewers all over the country, the Network’s vast coverage makes it the largest TV network in the Philippines in terms of number of stations and reach. GMA further strengthened its nationwide urban TV viewership lead and is consistently the number one network since the start of the year. GMA also endeavors to serve more Filipinos with valuable news and information and viewing entertainment especially during these trying times where broadcast media is greatly needed. As the Kapuso Network steps up to the challenge of delivering Serbisyong Totoo, GMA Channel 7 and GMA News TV continuously keep Filipinos updated with the latest news delivered by reputable programs 24 Oras, 24 Oras Weekend, Unang Hirit, Dobol B sa News TV, and News Bulletins. These newscasts, which continue to broadcast live following the special programming line-up in light of the quarantine implementations, not only inform, but also inspire and, most importantly, give hope amid the crisis that the world is currently facing. Also enabling viewers to access local news from the regions are GMA Regional TV Balitang Amianan, GMA Regional TV Balitang Bisdak, GMA Regional TV One Western Visayas, GMA Regional TV One Mindanao, GMA Regional TV Live!, and GMA Regional TV Weekend News.

Affirming GMA’s reputation for being the most trusted network in the country, viewers from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao shared how the Kapuso Network has uplifted their lives. “GMA Network really has the best news programs catering to local, national and international issues, which are steadfast in reporting to the Filipinos. They are also never biased, instead reliably offer transparency and information especially regarding political stands which is ever critical nowadays. GMA also has shows to entertain viewers of different genres. I personally love their diverse choices on dramas and seryes, always unique and out-of-the-box with regards to filming and artistry. Never a wrong choice for a series re-run during the pandemic, they sure would distract me from stress and anxieties,” said Ruth Fernandez, a Safety Officer from Dagupan City. Meanwhile, Negros Press Club President Glazyl Masculino shared, “In this modern era, GMA plays a vital role in creating and shaping of public opinion. It serves as a watchdog to create public awareness. It enables people to have quick access to news and information either on television and online.” “GMA is number 1 here for us in GenSan. Clear ang signal at informative ang news. Totoo nga na buong puso sila para sa Pilipino,” added Jeren Sonsona from Brgy. Bula, General Santos City. Aside from TV, everyone can stay updated via GMA’s 24 radio stations all over the country. Kapuso viewers abroad can likewise catch GMA via its international channels GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV International as well as GMA On Demand. And lastly, netizens can get the latest news and Kapuso content via www.GMANetwork.com, GMA News Online, and GMA’s official social media accounts. As the times continue to challenge the nation, Filipinos are assured that GMA Network remains true to its commitment to bring Serbisyong Totoo to the country and the world.

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6 UPDATES

DOBOL B SA NEWS TV CELEBRATES

3rd ANNIVERSARY

obol B Sa News TV celebrates another successful year and takes Serbisyong Totoo up a notch as it continues with its extended programming to deliver more relevant news and commentaries especially while the nation faces challenging times. Fondly known via the tagline “Radyo na, TV pa!”, Dobol B sa News TV currently airs from 6 a.m. up to the 24 Oras simulcast every Monday to Sunday. It is led by the country’s most trusted and award-winning radio anchors – GMA News pillars Mike Enriquez and Arnold Clavio, as well as Ali Sotto, Melo Del Prado, Joel Reyes Zobel, Susan Enriquez, Nathaniel ‘Mang Tani’ Cruz, and Connie Sison. An addition to its top-rating program line-up is the ‘Bantay COVID-19 Special Coverage’ bringing the latest updates and stories on the COVID-19 pandemic.

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“While we are grateful to be celebrating our 3rd anniversary, we also know that reliable news and information are very much needed as we face this crisis together. Rest assured that the men and women of Dobol B sa News TV are working tirelessly to deliver Serbisyong Totoo. And as our battle cry goes, walang iwanan!,” says GMA Network Vice President for Radio Operations Glenn F. Allona. Dobol B sa News TV is the collaboration of GMA Network’s flagship AM radio station Super Radyo DZBB 594khz and the country’s leading local news channel GMA News TV. Catch Dobol B Sa News TV on GMA News TV via Channel 27, and abroad via GMA News TV International.

Ang GMA Kapuso Foundation ay mamimigay ng mga kagamitan para sa mga bayaning health workers.

VISIT LINK BELOW TO LEARN MORE:

https://www.gmanetwork.com/kapusofoundation/donate

8 AWARDS

Earning the most number of finalists for the Philippines

GMA Network Wins Silver and Bronze at the New York Festivals H

ome to the most internationally-awarded Philippine documentary programs, GMA Public Affairs gave the country new set of recognitions after winning two world medals and scoring the most number of short-listed entries from the Philippines at the prestigious 2020 New York Festivals “World’s Best TV and Films” Competition. Earning the Silver World Medal in the Best Investigative Report category was the “Babies4Sale.PH” episode of The Atom Araullo Specials. The winning documentary hosted by Atom Araullo investigated the alarming baby transactions that became prevalent in social media. Taking home the Bronze World Medal in the History & Society category was Brigada’s “Aeta Squadron/Female Spies”. The documentary featured the situation of Aeta Squadron 30, whose contribution in defending the country during World War II seemed to be unrecognized as they have yet to receive or enjoy any military pension. Brigada is a news magazine program on GMA News TV hosted by Kara David.

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE |MAY 2020 ISSUE

Kara David

During the 2019 New York Festivals, the The Atom Araullo Specials was also conferred a Silver World Medal in the Social Issues category for its “No Leftovers” episode. Meanwhile, “Babies4Sale.PH” won the Best Documentary Programme (oneoff) at the Asian Academy Creative Awards, and received a “highly commended” plaque from the Association of International Broadcasters (AIB) Awards held in London last year. Over the years, GMA Network holds the distinction of being the most awarded Philippine organization at the New York Festivals “World’s Best TV and Films” competition. This year, it once again earned the most number of short-listed entries from the country and took home seven finalist certificates. This year’s finalists include eight-time New York Festival World Medalist Reporter’s Notebook (Social Issues category for its “Project Pilipinas: Medical Facility” episode); “Luzon Earthquake” coverage of GMA News TV’s flagship newscast State of the Nation (SONA) with Jessica Soho

Atom Araullo

(Best Newscast category); “The Atom Araullo Specials: The Patient is Out (Human Concerns category); Born To Be Wild’s twopart special “Big Catch” (Climate Change & Sustainability category); Investigative Documentaries’ “Tulaylay” episode (Social Issues category); and Stand for Truth’s reportage on the Hong Kong protests (Coverage of Continuing News Story category), which is the pioneering mobile journalism newscast’s first-ever awards nomination. Completing the list of GMA Network’s finalists this year is GMA Program Support Department’s TV spot for Bonifacio Day which took home a finalist certificate for Best Graphic Design under the Promotion/ Open and IDs category. The awarding ceremonies for this year’s winning entries was previously scheduled on April 21 in Las Vegas but was postponed because of the COVID-19 global pandemic.

UPDATES

Netizens’ Preferred News Source:

Stand for Truth Marks First Year with Record-Breaking Increase in Views G

MA News and Public Affairs’ pioneering mobile journalism newscast Stand for Truth marks its first anniversary with recordbreaking increase of views, making it one of the netizens’ preferred sources of news. Leading the list with the highest number of views for February was MJ Geronimo’s Mass Cremation in Wuhan, which recorded 4.9 million views. This was followed by another story of MJ, Chinese Palit Pastillas about the alleged anomaly on Bureau of Immigration, which recorded 2.9 million views. Meanwhile, Izzy Lee’s story on Patay sa Gluta, about a 33-year-old woman who died after allegedly receiving glutathione injections,

gained 2.4 million views as of this writing. And as the entire Luzon continues to be in enhanced community quarantine, netizens also turned to Anthony Esguerra’s story on Buhay Quarantine. It already has 2.3 million views on Facebook.’ Stand for Truth launched its own Facebook page last February and already has 31,000 followers and recorded 3 million total views to date. Nabanlian si Baby by Nico Waje topped the story last March with 2.1 million views. This was followed by Shai Lagarde’s Lockdown sa Italy and Bhea Docyogen’s Recovered from COVID-19 which both earned 1.5 million views.

Anchored by award-winning broadcast journalist Atom Araullo with GMA resident political analyst Richard Heydarian, Stand for Truth continues to gain traction since it premiered last April 2019. It has become a training ground for future journalists as well with a pool of millennial reporters—Nico Waje, Manal Sugadol, Shai Lagarde, Izzy Lee, Eduard Faraon, Mj Geronimo, Bhea Docyogen, Jm Encinas, and Anthony Esguerra—producing their stories themselves.

On YouTube, Stand for Truth episodes continue to attract viewers. As of March, it gained a total of 4.3 million views on YouTube, with 3.1 million views coming from the Philippines, while the remaining number of views came from the United States, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Canada, and Japan. Last March 30, Stand for Truth returned to live streaming. Catch it every night at 8:30 pm via its Facebook page, as well as GMA News’ and GMA Public Affairs’ YouTube channels.

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10 UPDATES

Betong Sumaya Fulfills Another Dream

GMA Entertainment Group launches YoüLOL

The newest online destination for comedy and laughs

Another dream has come into reality for Kapuso comedian, TV host and actor Betong Sumaya as he launches his debut single under GMA Music titled Nang Minahal Mo Ang Mahal Ko. Music has always been a big part of Betong’s life. No wonder, recording his music is definitely a feat for the Kapuso star.

Betong shares that this novelty song evokes deep emotions that go straight to the heart. He also gave advice to those who are brokenhearted, “Try to let go pero at the same time, unti-unti mo ‘yang matatanggap. Kung hindi talaga para sa’yo, hindi talaga para sa’yo. Ipag-pray na lang natin na darating din yung tamang tao para sa atin.” Composed by Jerry Olaguer, Nang Minahal Mo Ang Mahal Ko is available for streaming on Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube Music, and other digital stores worldwide.

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p for a good laugh? Or simply browsing for a fun time? Since May 1, GMA Entertainment Group has spread the cheer online with YoüLOL, a comedy channel on YouTube featuring premium offerings and ribtickling highlights from all the best Kapuso shows! Subscribers will have the chance to interact, greet, and have their favorite Kapuso artists give them a special shout out online.

One of YoüLOL’s segments is ‘Brgy. Bubble’, where channel subscribers can comment their challenge requests for the Bubble Gang cast to take on. YoüLOL will also feature multi-awarded comedian and content creator Michael V.’s hit parody music videos, along with funny gags, comical sketches and various games that netizens can participate in, and more videos that will make viewers laugh out loud! Sit back, relax, and have a good laugh. Visit www.youtube.com/YouLOLGMA .

COVER 11

And once the storm is over, you won’t remember how you made it through, how you managed to survive. You won’t even be sure, whether the storm is really over. But one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm, you won’t be the same person who walked in. That’s what this storm’s all about. Haruki Murakami, Kafka on the Shore

OVID-19 hit us like a storm straight out of a movie. It started as soft rain, falling on trees far from us. Then comes sheer change–the wind changes direction and waves rise exponentially. Before we know it, we are in the eye of the storm. Until today, it hasn’t left our waters; it continues to slam our coast, leaving a trajectory of debris, disruption, and much needed recovery. In the media industry, the pandemic-induced lockdowns and social distancing protocols have affected television like never before. Productions are suspended, brands are recalibrating their advertising plans, and cinema is on its knees. With so much uncertainty and an invisible danger, what are we facing? And more importantly, how do we navigate this world? We share with you a list of how others are rethinking the industry and what we can do.

renewed thirst for news is rising across the globe. “Having access to accurate information can mean the difference between life and death during a crisis,” says Stefanie Murray, director of the Center for Cooperative Media. Marked by record-high traffic, the demand for journalism has surged to unprecedented levels.

JOURNALISM IS ENTERING A GOLDEN AGE

“Explanatory journalism is entering a golden age in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic,” says Poynter Institute for Media Studies Vice President Roy Clarke. He observes that since COVID-19, dynamic new formats—such as the visualization of data—have been created to show us compelling images of what it means to “flatten the curve” of a spreading disease. “Journalists— and experts from science, business and government—are using explanatory journalism to communicate in the public interest,” adds Clarke.

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12 COVER

ONLINE MEDIA CONSUMPTION IS ON THE RISE

he mandatory shutdowns and bans on large gatherings have accelerated the transition to a media channel rapidly on the rise–streaming. As more people cocoon at home, the World Economic Forum says that media consumption will be increasing as a result not just of video-on demand but also other forms of home entertainment like gaming. According to the Global Web Index, people consume more content since the outbreak, with broadcast TV and online videos as the primary media across all generations and genders. This provides opportunity for the media to engage with a captive audience.

FILM IS FOREVER CHANGED

ven before COVID-19, the film industry has been vulnerable– fighting streaming services for audiences. With social distancing forcing film productions to pause and cinemas to close, the industry has been shaken to its core. In a snap of a finger, filmmakers could no longer pursue the traditional methods, distribution strategies, and business models. Dallas filmmaker Sonnier believes the pandemic has changed the way all movies will be made and presented moving forward. “This will be a fundamental shift in the theatrical distribution and exhibition industry forever,” Sonnier says. “It’ll be a completely new world once we all return.”

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ART AND CREATIVITY BLOOMS

“

Most business leaders I meet agree on at least one thing: in this rapidly changing world, creativity is imperative. Innovative solutions, brave creative thinking and world-class communications are needed to drive business growth, and to help us face, and begin to solve, the biggest global challenges,” says Philip Thomas, chairman of Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. As critical resources are stretched, people are move inward, “to the vast inner space of our thoughts and imagination, a place we have perhaps neglected,” explains Louise Netter of the Fast Company. Mark Mulligan of MIDiA Research expounds on this and says, “In the history of artistic output, adversity often results in the most powerful creativity. Creatives from script writers, through song writers to special effects designers may find themselves inspired to craft some of the most poignant and impactful work they have ever created.”

COVER 13

ADVERTISING IS UNDER PRESSURE

THE WAY WE LEARN IS CHANGING

n contrast with streaming that is experiencing growth, television has seen a significant drop in advertising revenues as brands cut back on spending in times of crisis. A Nielsen study explains that while there is increased consumer time spent watching video-on-demand services that do not show ads, this takes consumers away from the advertisingsupported environment of traditional TV. The Interactive Advertising Bureau, a trade group of media and marketing industries in the digital economy, also reports that both buyers and sellers of advertising expect ad revenues to considerably decline for the next months. In this scenario, digital experiences matter more than ever. Consultant firm Bain & Company says, “Leading companies will identify the ones that matter most and improve upon them to build new and stronger customer relationships. In other words: Follow your customers during the pandemic, then lead them out of it. “

A NEW WAY OF WORKING IS BEING RE-WRITTEN

massive transformation is undergoing in the workplace, which allowed for a grand experiment to be set to life–working from home. In Future Workplace’s recent survey, The Impact of the Coronavirus in the Workplace, it reports that as COVID-19 spreads, working from home will be the new normal. How can employees be more engaged with work? Make their work engaging. “The most powerful way to do this is to give people the opportunity to experiment and solve problems that really matter… Ask them: Where can we deliver amazing service to our customers? What’s broken that our team can fix? What will drive growth even in a time of fear? Why are these problems critical, valuable, and interesting?” say Lindsay McCregor and Neel Doshi of Harvard Business Review. We just might be surprised with the answers.

n parallel with the work-from-home move for enterprises, learn-from-home is also changing the education industry. With 1.2 billion children outside of the classroom according to the World Economic Forum, education has changed dramatically, with the rise of e-learning. But this is not just affecting children, it also affects employees. With a pandemic outside our doors, training and corporate education are moving online. This trend is also affecting the rise of educational TV. John Nery of the Philippine Daily Inquirer says, “Teachers in coordination with producers can prepare study questions for newscasts; networks can use their other platforms to host quizzes and other exercises to build skills; interview shows and variety shows alike can partner with schools or specific professors to convert a regular short segment into an educational resource, perhaps to develop critical thinking or to study an aspect of culture.”

As media practitioners, we live in the most uncertain, frightful times. But as the late US President John F. Kennedy wrote: “The Chinese use two brush strokes to write the word ‘crisis.’ One brush stroke stands for danger; the other for opportunity. In a crisis, be aware of the danger–but recognize the opportunity.” It will take long to see how this crisis will reinvent our industry. But right now, we have the power to shape it as need be.

“Sa harap ng mga nangyayari ngayon... ay lalo pa naging akma ang naging tema ng ating anniversary–Buong Puso Para Sa Pilipino ... Ngayon, higit kailanman, ay mas kailangan nating maghatid ng Serbisyong Totoo sa tahanan ng bawat Pilipino.” Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon

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14 PAYONG KAPUSO

We often hear or read that motherhood is the most beautiful experience for any woman. This May, we celebrate and pay tribute to these dedicated women who play vital roles in giving life and nurturing their children to become well-rounded human beings.

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PAYONG KAPUSO 15

Becoming a Mother For GMA News Pillar Vicky MoralesReyno, the best gift she can give to her children is to be there for them. By Sara Grace Fojas Special thanks to Teejay Pusong

MA News Pillar Vicky Morales-Reyno describes her mother as the “most selfless person I know—the kind of mom who will drop anything for her children.” And that is the kind of mother that she aspires to be to her 12-year old twin boys Leon and Pipo and nine-yearold daughter Daniela.

The Reynos (from top): Vicky, Leon, Daniela, King, and Pipo.

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16 PAYONG KAPUSO

“Traveling is our favorite family activity because it allows us to experience many new things together,” says Vicky (L-R) Vicky with Mom Lou Morales and sister Mabel Morales-Mañalac

“When I was still starting out as a morning show host for Business Today, she would diligently wake me up at dawn and prepare breakfast for me before I’d have to leave for work. At the dinner table, she would always leave the best part of any dish for us, saying she never really cared for it even if we know she just wanted to put our needs ahead of hers,” Vicky shares.

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Her mother, Lou Morales, would always put the family first before her needs. “She would consistently uphold what is best for the family without condoning anyone who got out of line. My mom has always been the moral compass and disciplinarian of our family. She’s a very low-key lady but is rock-solid and way up there when it comes to integrity. That is the kind of mom she is, and that’s the kind of mom I want to be to my own children. I would be so lucky if my children could admire me even half as much as I admire her.” When Vicky is not seen on screen breaking the most important news of the day on GMA’s primetime newscast 24 Oras or trying to mediate between opposing parties as Ate ng Bayan in Ilaban Natin ‘Yan, she enjoys being a mom to her three children together with her husband Atty. Alfonso ‘King’ Reyno III.

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The Morales family at Coimbra, former capital of Portugal. (L-R) Vicky’s brother Daffy, Vicky’s sister Mabel, dad Dante, mom Lou, and brother Dino

The Reynos

As a broadcast journalist, Vicky’s daily schedule is often hectic and unpredictable, but this doesn’t hinder her from being present in the important things happening in her children’s lives. “I try very hard to be a hands-on mom. I do whatever it takes to be around for school programs, parent-teacher conferences, sports competitions, and pedia visits. (Being a mother) made me think less of myself and more of my children. It has sharpened my focus on the things in life that really matter. I shower them with love and try to make them feel that I am always there for them,” she says.

Three generations coming together

Before the lockdown, Vicky shares that she would personally see her kids off to school before going to work and whenever she has the time, she would pick them up. Weekends are sacred for family time. They love traveling and experiencing new things together like trying out new restaurants and watching a good movie or two. When the enhanced community quarantine started, the family took

Ask her about her kids and Vicky will enthusiastically tell you how they are one of her most treasured blessings. “My twin boys are now 12 years old and luckily, they still hug me a lot. Pipo loves great food and will try almost anything; while Leon has always been a picky eater and his palette revolves around just three to four usual dishes,” she notes of their contrasting attributes. “Pipo is articulate, fond of making witty remarks and has great sense of humor while Leon is more of an introvert except when playing Fortnite (an online survival game). He is a math wiz and a true gentleman.” “My daughter Daniela, on the other hand, is nine. She loves to surprise me with nicely-written notes. She’s a dream student in class and enjoys singing, composing songs, gymnastics, shopping, and dressing up. My twin boys and my little girl are my joy,” says Vicky, who also hosts GMA News TV’s magazine show Good News with Vicky Morales. GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE |MAY 2020 ISSUE

18 PAYONG KAPUSO

When the enhanced community quarantine started, the family took advantage of it to spend more time with each other while staying safe from COVID-19. “Now that we’ve been on lockdown, I’ve been able to guide them with their schoolwork and have proper meals with them–two things I’ve hardly had the chance to do pre-lockdown since I’d get home from 24 Oras past their bedtime. We’ve also been able to have more conversations and watch more TV together as a family. Our favorite so far is ‘Crash Landing on You,’ which was lots of fun for everyone,” shares Vicky. Vicky is doing all these efforts and sacrifices for her three kids—even if it means that she might lose a few hours of

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE | MAY 2020 ISSUE

sleep or maybe not have the time for herself— just like what her mom did for her. She and her husband both see the importance of spending all the time that they have with them while they are still young. “You cannot bring back time. So savor the priceless moments. Read to them before they sleep. Stay with them when they are sick. Put the cellphone aside and give them your full attention when they are excited to tell you something. Time with them is precious because they grow up too fast. We all want to give our kids the best life possible. But we can only do so much for them. The rest will come in the form of planting seeds of kindness, which we hope will find their way back to our children and our children’s children,” ends Vicky.

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“Mababaw ang kaligayahan ng mga mommy. Give them lots of hugs and kisses, tell them you love them. These are the simple joys that energize them and make them feel that life is beautiful.”

Vicky with daughter Daniela

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20 PAYONG KAPUSO

Yasmien Kurdi and daughter Ayesha

LJ Reyes and children Aki and Summer

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A

MOM BY ARIANNE CARDIÃ&#x2018;O & KARLA DOMINGO

Karenina Haniel and daughter Cloud Chariz Solomon with sons Apollo and Ali GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE |MAY 2020 ISSUE

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eing a mother has its ups and downs in our society of relativism since there are pressure and expectations for them to be perfect and in control of their emotions at all times. Even if there is no proper manual on how to raise one’s child, there are predefined standards that should be met especially in this era of social media.

As modern celebrity moms, GMA Artist Center stars LJ Reyes, Chariz Solomon, Karenina Haniel, and Yasmien Kurdi face these challenges online but at the end of the day, for them, motherhood is not just a full-time job and a woman’s skill, but an act of utmost love and devotion.

YASMIEN KURDI

LJ REYES

Aside from acting in the small screen and being active on social media, Yasmien also shares a slice of her and her family’s life through the vlogs she uploads on YouTube. This too exposes her approach to parenting under the scrutinizing eyes of the public.

Meanwhile, being a mother has taught LJ that there are so many things you cannot control and plan. She’s just taking it day by day.

She reveals, “I get it at times - questioning my way of parenting. But I guess, people should know that we all have our different ways of raising our kids - there is no specific formula to that. I just do my best to be a good parent and I try to raise my daughter with love and care.” Yasmien attributes her parenting style from what she learned from her parents and the internet, “The world is changing, and as parents, we also have to adapt to it. It is our way of understanding their world, trying to keep up to it, and integrating the values the we learned from our parents.” She adds, “Being a mother has made me realize the unconditional love our parents have given to us. Now that I am a parent myself, I learned that raising a child is a labor of love. And nothing can be as fulfilling than seeing your child or children achieve those little successes in life.”

KARENINA HANIEL Meanwhile, Karenina enjoys baking with her daughter and considers conversations with her as a treasure. As a modern mom, the ‘Anak ni Waray vs. Anak ni Biday’ actress experienced challenges upon raising her child because of the opinion of others and their expectations of her, “Traditional moms would want you to look decent, less sexy and all, and I’m very confident with whatever I want to wear so mostly on how I present myself because I don’t look like a mom, but I want to look like a unique mom.” Being exposed in a tech-savvy generation, she mixed her parenting with traditional and unconventional ways, “I learned by the book. Before I became a mom, I was already a teacher for toddlers so I learned a lot of things in advance and still learning now. I have to adjust from no social media to social media everywhere. I love reading books but videos and stories from social media also help.” Karenina describes her motherhood as a purposeful ride and that it has taught her to enjoy life and to live in the present.

Parenting is not always easy, but despite this, there’s a lot of wonderful moments that one can cherish and make beautiful memories out of with their children. “I think we’ve always been reiterating that mothers know best, but sometimes you also have to listen to and observe your children’s needs. Parenting is continuous learning,” she said. For LJ, she makes sure to bond with her kids every day, “With Aki, even if I’m not a pro at gaming, I play with him and listen to him when he shares with me his interests. We like telling lots of stories to each other! With Summer, I play and dance with her a lot! I was mostly home the past year so I really get to spend time with the kids.”

CHARIZ SOLOMON Chariz’s favorite bonding time with her two adorable boys are swimming and watching TV. Despite her busy schedule as a celebrity, she always makes sure to spend some quality time with her children. According to her, moms shouldn’t always depend on the internet when it comes to parenting, “No. I always follow my guts, and the things I’ve learned from seminars, and most especially the things our pedia educated us with.” She also doesn’t believe in the effectivity of hurting your child just to teach them a lesson. For Chariz, communication is key to proper discipline. “In the aspect of discipline, the traditional “palo” works less for me and my boys. They get more hurt when they realize they hurt your feelings with what they’ve done. So communication and being open about feelings is more effective for us.” Becoming a mother gave Chariz more meaning into her life because her children need a mother more than anything or anyone in the world. For sure, parenting will be never be easy, yet she said, it has taught her that nothing will be impossible to do for the sake of her children. GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE |MAY 2020 ISSUE

22 PAYONG KAPUSO

A Mother’s Heart Changemakers. Dreamers. Champions.

hese women inspire us at work. But for their children, they are more than the work they do. They are softness and strength combined, with a love so wide and deep. Let’s get to know some of these great mothers in the eyes of their children. Likewise, let’s get to know their children in the hearts of the women who know them best– their mothers.

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE |MAY 2020 ISSUE

Mrs. Tessie M. Gozon is the wife of GMA Network Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon. Annette is her eldest daughter and is Board Director at GMA Network, Inc., President for GMA Worldwide Inc. and President of GMA Network Films, Inc. She is also on the board of GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.

FAITH AND FAMILY Mothers are one of our wisest models of togetherness. For Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes, her mother Tessie taught her about what matters most. “The most important lesson I learned from my mom is the prime importance of family. In everything, family comes first,” she says. Asked about her daughter, Mrs. Tessie Gozon shares, “As our firstborn child, Annette has a very interesting personality. She was an only child for 6 1/2 years before her brother, Philip, came along, followed by the youngest, Maritess, to whom she became a very good and loving Ate.” She adds, “Annette grew up independent-minded and strongwilled, but at the same time was very thoughtful and caring. She is very intelligent and is an achiever yet she remains very down-toearth. She also has a very big and compassionate heart. Moreover, I find that it is her unrelenting faith in God which carries her through the problems that come her way. In our old age, we appreciate that we can depend on her to be there for the whole family.” .

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Carolina G. Jimenez or “Tita Kay” is a trustee of GMA Kapuso Foundation. She is also founder and owner of Carolina Bamboo Garden in Antipolo, a place which houses both indigenous and exotic varieties of bamboo plants. Laura Jimenez-Westfall or “Laurie” is a Director of GMA Network Inc., Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Philippines) and Treasurer & Director at Museo Pambata Foundation, Inc. She was also Chairman & President for GMA New Media, Inc.

LOOK FOR THE GOOD IN OTHERS To be with her is to see the wonder and faith. For GMA director Laurie Jimenez-Westfall, her mother Carolina “Kay” Jimenez was her role model, mentor, and the glue of the family. In a message for Mother’s Day, she wrote: “Thank you for teaching me how to always put God first and ground myself in God’s word–it has made me strong and unshaken through the years no matter what comes my way. Thank you for teaching me to strive for peace ahead of self, instead of giving in to frustration you have shown me to try to find the common good. Thank you for teaching me to look for the good in others and not put people down, to teach and work with them instead of only pointing out their mistakes. Thank you for being our family’s strength and our fair listening ear… Thank you for always being the best mom, and Lola. We you!” For Kay, her only daughter Laurie is a woman of integrity, peace, and faith. She says:

She grew up as an independent, intelligent child, excellent in analyzing and strategizing. She is fair and just in her dealings with anyone. Her good intelligence showed early at a young age when at the Elementary grade her teacher asked me how I teach honesty to Laurie. I told her my simple secret of biblical foundation. I tell my children that I cannot always watch them do the right thing which they must do. That, even if I am not around, there is Jesus who sees everything they do and say. She must always do the right thing. Another thing that amazed me was her characteristic to understand the other person and remain calm. When she was studying at the University of the California, she had a project that brought us to take a seven-hour trip to Vallejo to interview early immigrant Filipinos who settled there as grape pickers. After days of hard work and reaching our home in Los Angeles, lo and behold our driver Nato had erased the video! I didn’t know how to react and was very upset. Laurie did not even raise a harsh voice or show anger. She understood it was unintentionally done. This was amazing for me to see how you can control your irritation and anger at a time like that. We, Nards and I, are very proud of Laurie how she has juggled herself to be what she has become, help our businesses, raise the family, do social activities and charitable endeavors, and most of all have time with her Lord and Creator.”

“Laurie is our third child after Butch and Joel. She is a fast learner and had learned at an early age to live with boys and has been a good company to them peaceably. You know how boys can tease Laurie. GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE |MAY 2020 ISSUE

24 PAYONG KAPUSO

DETERMINATION AND RESPECT To us, she is the woman behind some of the most successful and award-winning drama programs in GMA. But for her son Pancho, Redgie is more than that. She is his beloved mom and a fountain of wisdom. “The valuable lesson or advice my Mom gave me is to be respectful, be polite always–like saying thank you, take care and good morning. And just be a good example to everyone especially to my siblings since I am the eldest and Kuya,” he says. To many, we see Pancho on TV and know him as a multi-talented artist. Her mom lets us in a bit more. Redgie shares, “Pancho is a very determined person. If he has a goal, he really sets his mind to it. He will exhaust all the possibilities to be able to reach his goal. He would consult me, his siblings, and his friends.”

GIVE YOUR BEST As a television executive, Malou ChoaFagar brings concepts to life. But for her son Ramon, she is a source of inspiration in life. Among the many lessons she imparted, Ramon shares the three lessons he treasures the most. “In whatever you do, you give your best. Even in the little things, if you’ve been assigned to make coffee, then you make the best coffee. You give your best because it’s for the Lord. Two - Always ask. “Mabuti nang stupid for a moment instead of being stupid for life”. Also “hindi magandang sagot ang akala”, so there’s nothing wrong with asking questions. When you encounter a problem and you need help, don’t just ask for solutions but also provide them as well.” Creativity runs in the genes as Ramon also works in the same field. Beyond creativity, there are other things Malou is proudest of her son, “ I’m proud of Ramon’s empathy for people and his social skills. I’m also proud that he is the first Fagar to graduate on time and to finish college in just three years.”

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE |MAY 2020 ISSUE

BE GRATEFUL FOR EVERYTHING Others will mistake them for sisters, not just with their beauty but also with their character. For Dennelle, there is one lesson that stood out from all that her mom Debbie taught her. Alagaan niyo gamit niyo. “This is one of the many valuable lessons that my mom has taught us. At first, I thought she only said it to scold us little girls to teach us how to take care of our things. But as I grew older, I started to learn how not to value materialistic things as they are but the meaning and significance of those things to us, the people behind those things. It taught me how to take care of myself and the people around me. I learned how to appreciate every little thing that I have and see how blessed we all are in every way.” Her mom Debbie, in turn, shares how much of a good example Dennelle is. “I am proudest that Dennelle was the best example to her two younger sisters while growing up. She is Godfearing and she knows the value of respecting others. As working parents, we are the luckiest to have a daughter who’s strong-willed and passionate to finish her studies with minimal supervision and who continues to follow her dreams.”

BELIEVE IN YOUR PASSION Fondly known as Ate Chichi, Narcissa Cardino is known for her heart and passion at work. Outside of GMA, she is a GMA GIVES volunteer, sharing her time and expertise in helping the community. To her daughter Yani, Ate Chichi is more than that. She is her staunch supporter in following her dreams. “My mom supports me wholeheartedly in everything that I want to do and at the same time pushes me to achieve it. She would always tell me to follow my dreams, believe in my passion and keep a strong faith along the way,” she says. From journalism to PR, writing to voicing, and finding great stories – that is Yani, a communicator with many talents. Her mom Chichi also shares, “Yani loves to explore life and she is very independent. Yani, at the age of 17, was accepted to study abroad as an exchange student. She travelled alone to Poland and other countries in Europe. I hope she achieves all her dreams.”

Malou Choa-Fagar of TAPE Inc. is one the pioneers behind the longest running noontime show, Eat Bulaga! TAPE inc. has been GMA’s partner since 1995. She loves seeing their concepts and creations come to life on TV and being appreciated by the millions of viewers. Ramon has been working in GMA for seven years. He loves the mix of creativity, marketing, and production in his PSG family.

25 Redgie Magno is the Network’s Vice President for Drama. She has been with GMA for 19 years, starting as production assistant for a blocktimer. She moved up the ranks as Executive Producer for Lovingly Yours, Helen produced by HyperVisions Productions, and GMA Love Stories, Campus Romance, and other programs produced then by GMA Marketing, and was later on hired as program manager for the Network. Passionate about production she says, “It is a rewarding experience when you get to watch your programs on TV, knowing that you are able to provide entertainment to the viewers and impart values.” Pancho is a multi-talented artist of GMA Artist Center. He loves that his craft gives him the opportunity to be someone else–to be a soldier, a doctor or even live in a fantasy world. “I love watching movies so I enjoy doing films too. Travelling around the Philippines to do mall shows and promoting our teleseryes is definitely a bonus to us artists. We get to see places around the country and be with our fans.”

Chichi Cardiño has been with GMA for more than 25 years now. She started with PPMO group (now SAMD) as a Warehouse Coordinator and now works with the Engineering Group. Yani has been with the Corporations Affairs and Communications department for almost two years. She works as Publicity Writer, handling publicity campaigns and activities being undertaken by the Network.

Debbie Paragas has been with GMA for 14 years. She enjoys the vast experience and learnings with her bosses and colleagues. “I’m also glad that we treat each other as a family so it’s easier for us to cope up with challenges and meet our goals,” she says. Her daughter Dennelle has been with GMA for three years now. “My workmates are very friendly, I even consider them as family. Since I am the youngest in my unit, they treat me like their own child or little sister by giving me pieces of advice and help whenever I need them (work or not). But that doesn’t mean that I get the easy tasks, they entrust me with responsibilities that they know can challenge me. I love GMA because work doesn’t feel like work because of all the friendly faces around me.”

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE |MAY 2020 ISSUE

26 REGIONAL TV

Viewers’ Choice in Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao

GMA Regional TV’s Local Newscasts Win Over Competitions GMA Regional TV Weekend News Returns to GMA News TV

rom Luzon, Visayas, to Mindanao, GMA Regional TV has become the viewers’ top choice in delivering local news that matters as GMA Regional TV Balitang Amianan, GMA Regional TV Balitang Bisdak, and GMA Regional TV One Mindanao triumphed over their respective competition. This is based from Nielsen Phils. Metro Cities TV Audience Measurement (MCTAM) data covering the period April 6 to 8, 2020. In North Central Luzon, award-winning newscast GMA Regional TV Balitang Amianan posted an average people rating of 12.5 percent in MCTAM Dagupan, dominating rival program TV Patrol North Luzon, which only earned 5.9 percent. Emerging as a champion among Bisdak in Eastern and Central Visayas, GMA Regional TV Balitang Bisdak won over TV Patrol Central Visayas, recording an average people rating of 12.0 percent versus competition’s 10.2 percent.

MA Regional TV Weekend News returned to GMA News TV with a new timeslot at 6:15 pm beginning last May 2 as it started a new season. Making local newscasts available to more viewers nationwide, GMA Regional TV Weekend News originally aired at 5 pm on GMA News TV. Following the Luzonwide enhanced community quarantine, the newscast temporarily moved to GMA-7 from March 21 to April 25.

(L-R) Adrian Prietos, Atty. Sedfrey Cabaluna, and Kaitlene Rivilla of One Western Visayas

(L-R) Joanne Ponsoy, CJ Torida, and Jasmin Gabriel-Galban of Balitang Amianan

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE |MAY 2020 ISSUE

(L-R) Cecille Quibod-Castro, Alan Domingo, and Lou Anne Mae Rondina of Balitang Bisdak

(L-R) Real Sorroche, Tek Ocampo, and Sarah Hilomen-Velasco of One Mindanao

As the program ushers in Season 3 of its broadcast, GMA’s only English newscast to date will be back on GMA News TV—this time as part of the news channel’s Saturday primetime line-up. “GMA Regional TV Weekend News continues to bring Kapuso viewers in the different Philippine regions, including the National Capital Region, all the freshest news and developments in key cities and provinces all

REGIONAL TV 27

GMA Regional TV Live! Brings Fresh Start to Mornings

GMA Regional TV’s winning streak extended to Mindanao as GMA Regional TV One Mindanao toppled competition with an average people rating of 11.3 percent versus ABS-CBN’s The Tale of Nokdu, which only managed to record 6.7 percent. Similarly, all three local Kapuso newscasts tallied winning ratings performance based on MCTAM data covering March 30 to April 3, 2020. GMA Regional TV Balitang Amianan’s 12.8 percent won against TV Patrol North Luzon; GMA Regional TV Balitang Bisdak’s 10.6 percent was higher than TV Patrol Central Visayas; and GMA Regional TV One Mindanao’s 11.1 percent was ahead of ABSCBN’s The Tale of Nokdu.

over the Philippines,” says GMA Regional TV Vice President and Head Oliver Amoroso. He adds: “We thank all our loyal viewers who continue to support our local newscasts every day and watch GMA Regional TV Weekend News every Saturday. Now that we are back on GMA News TV and on primetime block at that, we commit to providing our Kapuso all over the country the relevant information they need because local news matters especially in these challenging times. Now, more than ever, we believe that every Filipino must know what is happening in other areas of the country. GMA Regional TV Weekend News is here to do that.” For its first primetime episode last May 2, Tek Ocampo, Sarah Hilomen-Velasco, and Real Sorroche of top-rating and award-winning GMA Regional TV One Mindanao served as GMA Regional TV Weekend News anchors.

“Words are not enough to describe how happy and proud I am of the GMA Regional TV teams in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. These ratings are results of hard work and determination especially in these challenging times,” says GMA Regional TV Vice President and Head Oliver Amoroso. “With deep gratefulness and humility, I can say that we have come a long way. I can only thank the good Lord and congratulate the amazing teams of GMA Regional TV Balitang Amianan in North Central Luzon, GMA Regional TV Balitang Bisdak in Central and Eastern Visayas, and GMA Regional TV One Mindanao in North, Central, and Southern Mindanao for a job well done.” GMA Regional TV is giving Kapuso in the regions more reasons to “Wake up to a new morning. Get ready for a fresh start” with GMA Regional TV Live!

GMA Regional TV has continuously shown improving performance for its various local newscasts. Recently, GMA Regional TV Balitang Amianan, GMA Regional TV Balitang Bisdak, and GMA Regional TV One Mindanao triumphed over their respective competitions based on latest data from Nielsen TV Audience Measurement. During weekdays, GMA Regional TV’s regional newscasts are available from Mondays to Fridays at 5 pm via the Kapuso Network’s local channels all over the country. Last April 20, GMA Regional TV also launched its newest addition to its local programs, the morning show GMA Regional TV Live! airing weekdays at 8 am via GMA Regional TV’s Central and Eastern Visayas channels.

Airing weekdays at 8 am via GMA Regional TV’s Central and Eastern Visayas channels, GMA Regional TV Live! will be hosted by GMA Regional TV Cebu’s pool of anchors and correspondents. The latest morning show boasts of segments that highlight positive features and stories of people, specifically that of Kapusong Bisdak or Cebuanos. For its pilot season, Balitang Bisdak Senior Correspondent Nikko Sereno takes the helm as host of GMA Regional TV Live! Meanwhile, veteran news presenter Cecille Quibod-Castro handles one of the show’s major segments, “BizTalk.” The show also gives viewers the day’s weather with “Panahon Karon’” to keep them updated. .

@GMARegionalTV GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE |MAY 2020 ISSUE

28 KAPUSO ABROAD

GMA International Bolsters Reach in Canada with Access Communications Co-operative G

MA International continues to bring Filipinos abroad closer to home through a new partnership with Access Communications Co-operative, serving more Kapuso in the Saskatchewan area. Beginning April 20, GMA’s three international channels — GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV International — will be available on Access Communications*. This partnership came just in time for Kapuso abroad in Saskatchewan to enjoy the latest and greatest GMA has to offer. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the production of some GMA programs for the meantime, the Network remains committed to bringing you an array of new and classic top-rated content which you will surely love. An adaptation of the 1984 film, Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit, with Superstar, Nora Aunor, once again in a starring role is available on GMA. Alongside her, Mylene Dizon and Kyline Alcantara both demonstrate their acting prowess. Coney Reyes returns to the small screen with Kapuso love team Tom Rodriguez and Carla Abellana, as well as Rhian Ramos and Mikael Daez. These stars come together in an inspirational drama about three women who will do everything for the love of their lives in Love of My Life.

Gone, but never forgotten:

GMA Pinoy TV Honors Fallen Heroes of Pandemic GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE |MAY 2020 ISSUE

Be taken on a journey to different scenic spots in the Philippines in the safety of your home with Drew Arellano on the travel show, Byahe Ni Drew. Embark on a gastronomic adventure to various food hubs with Starstruck alumna, Arra San Agustin on her first solo food and lifestyle show, Taste MNL. Unlike any other documentary programs on Philippine television, this awardwinning weekly documentary program on GMA News TV, does not have the presence of hosts or narrators. Reel Time instead focuses on the subjects’ point-of view. GMA Regional TV Weekend News is the only English and sole national newscast of GMA Network that delivers different news from various regions in the Philippines. Kapuso abroad can also stay updated with the latest and most credible news from the most trusted award-winning news personalities every day of the week thanks to Dobol B sa News TV’s extended programming on GMA News TV International. All these and more Pinoy favorites can be enjoyed on GMA’s three international channels — GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV International, now available on Access Communications.

MA Pinoy TV pays tribute to the Filipino heroes who have fallen in the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic in honor of their passion and sacrifice while serving at the frontlines in the Philippines and abroad. Through Memorials, a series of videos and posts on its Facebook page, GMA Pinoy TV extends its sincerest gratitude to the deceased as well as its deepest sympathy to their loved ones.

To know more about how to subscribe to Access Communications, visit myaccess.ca or call 1-866-363-2225. For more updates on Kapuso shows and personalities abroad, follow GMA Pinoy TV and GMA Pinoy TV Canada on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

These heroes come in various forms–they are doctors, nurses, health workers, leaders in Filipino communities abroad, volunteers, teachers, and overseas Filipinos. Most of them are admired by their family and friends for being cheerful, loving, and dedicated to helping and serving others. Kapuso netizens, including the relatives of the fallen heroes, also lauded the video series and expressed how touched they were by the tribute.

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Medical staff in Las Vegas celebrate Pinay nurse’s recovery from COVID-19

Mga Kapuso, paano ba natin mapapanatili ang ating physical at mental health habang naka-home quarantine? May simple tips ang ating mga Kapuso comedians na puwede n’yong gawin sa inyong mga tahanan habang may enhanced community quarantine!

US news sites also reported that Angue works as a nurse at Mountain View Hospital, but was hospitalized in Southern Hills Hospital and Medical Center, also in Las Vegas. She had been caring for patients with coronavirus when she became infected. To celebrate her recovery, her fellow medical frontliners waited for her at the hospital lobby and sent her off with a warm round of applause. Watch it here https://www.facebook. com/gmapinoytv/ videos/225383835542479/?t=2 gmapinoytv/317398499241820/

Watch it here

www.facebook.com/watch/gmapinoytv/317398499241820/

Maria Teresa Mateo, wife of one of the frontliners honoured in the video, wrote “Thank you GMA for this tribute. Thank you for honouring all frontliners. For all the prayers, sympathy, comforting messages posted. May the Lord Jesus be glorified in our midsts.” US-based Fely Perez also expressed her deepest sympathy and wrote, “We honor those who are risking their lives to save others to fight against this virulent enemy. We will never forget! Praying for all of you. Thank you GMA Pinoy TV for this tribute to our heroes.”

Malou Francisco also commented that the loss of their beloved Raymond Abear (her frontliner relative) is heart breaking for all of them in New York as they lost a dedicated and hardworking employee, a very responsible husband to his wife, a very good father to his two young kids. She also shared a few touching anecdotes of him from their last meeting at a family reunion. “Slowly with God’s care, may we all come to the point of accepting his death. We love him so much and he will be in our hearts forever. May God bless his soul, rest in peace, and may God bless all of them who died too and may they rest in peace!,” Francisco ended.

As GMA Pinoy TV believes that ‘heroes are ordinary people who do extraordinary things in extraordinary times’, the names mentioned in its videos are only few of the many heroes all over the world who have given their lives to fight against the unseen enemy. They may now be gone, but never forgotten. To see GMA Pinoy TV’s video series tribute to the fallen heroes, visit their official Facebook page at www.faceboook.com/ gmapinoytv.

GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE |MAY 2020 ISSUE

30 CITIZEN KAPUSO

Kapuso Foundation Continues Much Needed Aid to Frontliners, Filipinos

MA 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, Kapuso grocery packs were given to 26,349 individuals from communities with a large concentration of daily wage earners. The donations 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.

MA Network employees put together a tribute video for the COVID-19 heroes–the frontliners who selflessly worked to protect all of us and for every Kapuso who bravely covers stories around the world to bring us news and information.

Watch it here:

OR VISIT @KAPUSOPRGIRL ON FACEBOOK TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE |MAY 2020 ISSUE

CITIZEN KAPUSO 31

(L-R) Ace Capili of GMA Tours, Jonar Raymond RiÃ±o of Engineering with his family, and Emily, daughter of Marian Domingo of GMA Corporate Communications GMA KAPUSO MAGAZINE | MAY 2020 ISSUE