For the 12th consecutive year, Brother Philippines, in partnership with the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), hosted the annual Lakbay Aral trip for the students of Inigan Elementary School. Held on December 7, 2024, the event provided 120 students with an enriching educational experience at the Food Wanderer x Lakbay Museo at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Parañaque City.

A total of 25 Brother Philippines associates participated in the trip, sharing their time and enthusiasm with the students.

The event combined learning and holiday cheer as students explored interactive exhibits highlighting Filipino culture, food, and traditions. It offered a hands-on, immersive experience that encouraged curiosity and creativity among the young participants. The day concluded with a Christmas gift-giving activity, spreading joy to the children and underscoring the event’s dual focus on education and celebration.

Brother Philippines Associates engage with students during the annual Lakbay Aral program

“Through the Lakbay Aral program, we aim to provide students with meaningful learning opportunities that go beyond the classroom,” said Glenn Hocson, President of Brother Philippines. “We believe in the power of education to transform lives, and we’re honored to play a part in enriching the students' experiences while also celebrating the holiday spirit with them.”

A proud tradition of nurturing young minds

Since its inception in 2012, the Lakbay Aral program has been a key component of Brother Philippines' corporate social responsibility efforts. The initiative allows students to engage in experiential learning at various educational venues. Past trips have included visits to the Mind Museum in Bonifacio Global City, where students explored science and technology through interactive exhibits.

This year’s destination, the Food Wanderer x Lakbay Museo, offered a new dimension of learning, immersing students in Filipino heritage and traditions through engaging and visually stimulating displays. The initiative has consistently emphasized the value of learning through experience, making education both accessible and enjoyable for the students of Inigan Elementary School.

Inigan Elementary School students join activities at Brother Philippines' Lakbay Aral program.

The Lakbay Aral program also aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education), which emphasizes the importance of inclusive and equitable quality education. Furthermore, the program supports SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) that highlight the importance of collaboration and collective action in achieving sustainable development objectives.

“Education is a cornerstone of sustainable development,” Hocson concluded. “Through initiatives like Lakbay Aral, we remain committed to empowering young minds and strengthening our communities. We are proud to continue this tradition and look forward to furthering our impact in the years to come,” added Hocson.

Through its partnership with PBSP, Brother Philippines ensures the successful implementation of Lakbay Aral to create a lasting impact on the students, their families, and the broader community.

To learn more about Brother Philippines' educational and community-focused initiatives, visit the official website at www.brother.com.ph and follow its social media channels.

Snack and beverage maker Universal Robina Corporation (URC) welcomed the new year by sharing and celebrating joy with its partner foundations. In collaboration with Robinsons Supermarket and Metro Supermarket, URC held its “Share-lebrate Joy UR Way” event to give kids a fun movie screening experience.

URC delighted kids from SOS Children’s Village, Norfil Foundation, their partners; Grace to Be Born and the House of Refuge, through various fun activities, special gifts, and an exciting movie screening at Ayala Center in Cebu, and at Opus Mall in Quezon City, last January.

Before the screening started, the kids were invited to join the energizing Hot Potato Hustle game, and to happily dance with URC’s adorable mascots – Goodday Gogo in Cebu, Goodday Ori, and Cloud 9 Captain Choco in Manila.

Then, it was time to watch Mufasa: The Lion King, a movie which traces the origins of Simba’s father in the Lion King. The movie captured the kids’ imagination with its colorful cast of characters and catchy tunes. Of course, they rooted for the titular character as he goes on a heroic journey from lost cub to the brave lion king that many know and love.

When asked about their favorite character in the movie, Mufasa was the hands-down favorite. “I loved how Mufasa values his home and family so much,” said Kurt, one of the young kids in attendance. This was echoed by other kids like Zyra, who praised Mufasa for being “very brave and strong, and defending his friends and family all the time.”

The sounds of happiness echoed through the halls of the cinema as the kids excitedly talked about the movie with each other and their guardians. They also received goodie bags filled with URC’s delicious snacks and drinks, Jack ‘n Jill Knots, Jack n Jill Roller Coaster, Jack n Jill Nips and Ready to Drink Beverages such as C2, Goodday, Cloud 9 and more.

URC not only aims to delight everyone with good food choices but also offer people fun and memorable experiences through its activities. With events like “Share-lebrate Joy UR Way”, [RAV1] URC hopes to give back to communities and give them joyful experiences that they can cherish.

TNT, the value-packed mobile brand of Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), is empowering subscribers with a major connectivity boost with the launch of Max Saya 30, the first prepaid data pack to offer a prioritized network experience.

Max Saya 30 provides 2 GB of prioritized data access for one day for only Php30, underscoring TNT's commitment to making cutting-edge mobile services accessible to all Filipinos.

Designed for use when you need speed the most, Max Saya 30 ensures subscribers can stay ahead of the curve and experience significantly faster connectivity for all their online activities.

Whether sharing real-time videos on social media at a crowded event, emailing a large file before a deadline from a busy café, or dominating mobile games at a packed mall, Max Saya 30 delivers a prioritized experience on TNT's 4G and 5G networks.

Max Saya 30 also allows users to stream their favorite shows while stuck in traffic, virtually line up for concert tickets alongside thousands of fans, or quickly check out online purchases during flash sales.

"Fast and seamless mobile internet is always an advantage, but it's crucial in congested areas during peak hours," said Lloyd R. Manaloto, Head of TNT.

"During these critical moments, our subscribers can rely on Max Saya 30 to stay connected and unstoppable in their online activities. " TNT subscribers can register to Max Saya 30 via the Smart App and authorized retailers nationwide.

The launch of Max Saya 30 follows TNT and Smart's rollout of 5G Max, which provides a significantly enhanced 5G experience with faster upload and download speeds and lower latency. 5G Max is now available in Taguig City and will soon expand to other strategic locations nationwide.

Max Saya 30 also builds excitement for TNT’s upcoming 25th anniversary celebration, which promises more exciting offers and fun-filled experiences for subscribers. Download the Smart App now on Google Play Store and Apple App Store to learn more about TNT Max Saya 30.

GMA Network’s groundbreaking advocacy, Panata Kontra-Fake News, won Gold in the Best Use of Partnerships category at the 60th Anvil Awards held on January 28 at the Manila Hotel. Receiving the award was Oliver Victor B. Amoroso, Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, GMA Regional TV, and Synergy.

Launched on National Press Freedom Day in 2024, Panata Kontra-Fake News is a multi-platform initiative dedicated to combating disinformation by raising awareness, fostering critical thinking, and encouraging active public engagement.

GMA Network, Inc. Chairman Atty. Felipe L. Gozon, who spearheaded the campaign, emphasized the importance of truth in nation-building.

“Truth is the very mechanism by which we build a better nation. It is not always the most viral, but it remains the best story to tell. Lagi’t lagi, sama-sama tayong magpahayag ng katotohanan na walang kinikilingan, walang pinoprotektahan, walang kasinungalingan, sa pamamagitan ng serbisyong totoo lamang,” he said.

GMA Network shares the recognition with the nearly 60 media organizations, tech companies, and academic institutions that stood united and heeded the challenge to fight disinformation in the covenant-signing event that kicked off the country’s largest campaign against fake news.

Through special reports, multimedia content, and interactive engagement across TV, radio, and digital platforms, the initiative has empowered millions of Filipinos to navigate the digital landscape responsibly.

Amoroso highlighted the need to strike a balance between countering disinformation and safeguarding freedom of expression.

“In an age where misinformation spreads faster than ever, we at GMA Integrated News have embraced our responsibility to counter fake news with accuracy, accountability, and clarity. Panata Kontra-Fake News is not just a campaign, it is our pledge to empower Filipinos with credible information, to spark critical thinking, and to safeguard our democracy,” he said.

He also dedicated the award to the collective efforts of journalists, editors, producers, staff, and audiences who support truthful journalism.

“This award is not ours alone. It belongs to every journalist, editor, producer, and staff member who worked tirelessly to ensure that truth prevails. It also belongs to our viewers and readers, whose trust and engagement inspire us every day. Let this award be a reminder that when we unite to combat disinformation, we create a more informed and empowered society,” he added.

Mikey De Quiros, 60th Anvil Awards APR Chairman, noted that GMA was among the top three nominees for the Grand Anvil, the highest honor from the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP).

“GMA’s program was strong. The output was good. What mattered was its impact on society and how it helps the Filipino people—even beyond our borders,” he said.

The Anvil Awards, organized annually by PRSP, is the country’s most prestigious recognition for excellence in public relations, honoring outstanding initiatives and impactful PR campaigns.

For more updates about GMA Network, visit www.gmanetwork.com.

A brand-new Porsche 911 Carrera S worth PHP 18 million took center stage on January 20, 2025, as Landers Superstore awarded the grand prize to one lucky member during its Shop & Win Grand Draw. The awarding of the luxury car was the highlight of Landers’ 8th Anniversary celebration, held at its Arca South branch. The event brought together loyal members, media partners, and celebrity guests for a night filled with excitement, gratitude, and memorable moments.

Revving Up the Excitement with Interactive Experiences

The evening began with engaging activities that added excitement to the festivities. Guests tried their hand at the Porsche 911 Carrera S Racing Simulator, experiencing the thrill of driving the luxury vehicle. A Porsche-themed photo booth also provided attendees with memorable snapshots. Adding to the buzz, brand sponsors showcased their premium offerings through product samplings, making the celebration even more enjoyable.

Celebrities, Cheers, and Show-Stopping Performances

Celebrity hosts Billy Crawford and Shaina Magdayao brought their energy and charm to the stage, keeping the crowd entertained and engaged throughout the evening. 

 

A powerful performance by Ms. Vina Morales captivated the audience, drawing cheers and applause. 

Adding even more excitement to the night were Ruffa Gutierrez, Annabelle Rama, and Janice de Belen, whose presence added glamour and warmth to the celebration. 

The star-studded event also featured Enchong Dee, Kyline Alcantara, JC De Vera, Aubrey Miles, and Empress Schuck, who mingled with attendees and joined in the festivities. 

Derrick Monasterio, Kristoffer Martin, Suzi Entrata, and Royce Cabrera added their charm to the celebration, creating opportunities for fans and guests to interact with their favorite celebrities.

One of the most thrilling moments of the evening was an interactive game of Bato-Bato-Pick, where members of the media, loyal customers, and celebrities competed for the top prize—PHP 50,000 worth of Landers Gift Certificates. The crowd roared with excitement as participants gave their all, making the game one of the highlights of the event. With celebrity interactions, exciting games, and unforgettable performances, the night offered a perfect blend of entertainment and community engagement.

From Pizza to Porsches: The Ultimate Raffle Prizes

The Shop & Win Grand Draw was the highlight of Landers Superstore’s 8th Anniversary celebration, offering members an extraordinary lineup of prizes that added excitement to the evening. Among the minor prizes, Ryan Perry B. See won 8 Doppio coffee drinks per month for 8 months, while Jason Michael T. Ngo took home PHP 8,000 worth of Maya credits. Other winners included Arlene T. Carpizo, who claimed an eight-year Landers membership, and Arturo D. Yong, who received an Urban Time Watch. Emma Carmela B. Topacio won a one-year supply of Landers Central Pizza, Ruth G. Alferez was awarded PHP 8,000 worth of Landers Gift Certificates, and Luningning B. Esmores took home an iPad 10th Gen. Additionally, Leo M. Agustin II won a one-year supply of Caltex Fuel, adding to the night’s memorable moments.

The excitement intensified with the major prizes. Joy Felycitas G. Alzate claimed a Kia Sonet SUV, drawing cheers from the crowd. The highlight of the evening came when the grand prize—a Porsche 911 Carrera S worth PHP 18 million—was awarded to Ingrid Rose I. Panuncialman. The announcement of the winner brought the audience to their feet, with applause and excitement filling the venue as the luxurious prize found its new owner.

Looking Back at Eight Remarkable Years

Landers’ leadership took the stage to reflect on the company’s growth over the past eight years. Chief Transformation Officer Bill Cummings highlighted key milestones, including Landers’ expansion to 14 branches and its recognition as 2024 Retailer of the Year at the Vertex Awards. He also credited the success to the unwavering support of the 2 million members who have made Landers a household name.

VP for Marketing & Membership Kenneth Ocampo expressed heartfelt gratitude to members and gave a sneak peek into what’s ahead for 2025. Exciting plans include PHP 1 million monthly giveaways and another luxury car raffle, underscoring Landers’ commitment to delivering more value to its members.

More Than a Retailer: A Partner in Community Building

The event also spotlighted Landers’ dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). A video presentation highlighted the company’s efforts in disaster relief and community outreach programs, reaffirming its mission to bring MORE to its members and the communities it serves.

The Road Ahead: Exciting Plans for 2025

Looking to the future, Landers unveiled ambitious plans to bring even more value to its members. Aside from the aforementioned PHP 1 million monthly giveaways, 2025 will feature continued product innovations and shopping promotions designed to enhance the membership experience. Adding to the excitement, Landers also announced that another new luxury car will be up for grabs, giving members even more reasons to stay engaged. With these initiatives, Landers aims to redefine the retail experience once again while continuing to reward its loyal community.

Looking Forward to a Bigger Future

The 8th Anniversary celebration brought together over 700 in-person attendees at Landers Arca South, with thousands more joining via Facebook Live. The hashtags #Landers8 and #LandersShopAndWin trended online, amplifying the celebration’s reach.

As Landers moves into its ninth year, it remains committed to transforming the shopping experience with innovative perks, exclusive products, and exceptional rewards. For more details about Landers Superstore and its exciting offers, visit www.landers.ph.

The iconic Bahay ni Kuya opens its doors to a historic first as GMA Network and ABS-CBN partner for “Pinoy Big Brother’s” 20th anniversary special – “Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab Edition.” This was made official last, January 28, at a contract signing held inside the PBB House.

Present during the event were GMA Network’s President and Chief Executive Officer Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., Executive Committee Chairman Joel G. Jimenez, Senior Vice President for Programming, Talent Management, Worldwide, and Support Group, and President and CEO of GMA Films Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes, First Vice President for Sparkle GMA Artist Center and Talent Development and Management Joy C. Marcelo, Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Communications Angel Javier-Cruz, Officer-in-Charge for Program Management Department Mitzi Garcia, and Senior Assistant Vice President for Program Management Department Concie Agnes.

In attendance from ABS-CBN were Chairman Mark Lopez, President and Chief Executive Officer Carlo L. Katigbak, Chief Operating Officer Cory V. Vidanes, Group Chief Financial Officer Ricardo B. Tan, Jr., Head of TV Production and Star Magic Laurenti Dyogi, and Vice President of Corporate Communications Kane Errol C. Choa.

Duavit welcomes this new partnership with ABS-CBN. “We are pleased to collaborate with ABS-CBN once again – this time to jointly bring a special edition of “Pinoy Big Brother” to our Kapuso and Kapamilya audiences. Sabay-sabay nating tangkilikin ang naiibang PBB na ito,” he said.

“We are very excited to collaborate with ABS-CBN to bring to the Filipino audiences, the country’s longest running reality show, Pinoy Big Brother. Abangan ninyo ang pagsasama ng mga Kapuso at Kapamilya housemate sa teleserye ng totoong buhay, malapit na malapit na sa GMA,” added Atty. Gozon-Valdes.

Vidanes likewise underscored ABS-CBN’s latest partnership with GMA Network. “We are very, very happy to announce that on the 20th year of PBB, we are doing this special collaboration with GMA. This is a moment that will go down in history.”

Set to air on GMA, the “Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab Edition” will feature artists from Sparkle GMA Artist Center and ABS-CBN’s Star Magic creating unforgettable moments inside the PBB house.

This partnership follows the success of “Unbreak My Heart,” “It’s Showtime,” and “Hello, Love, Again.”

For the latest updates, tune in to GMA Network’s on-air platforms GMA and GTV, its official website www.GMANetwork.com, or via its official social media accounts.

An exciting chapter opens in the lives of the Gen Z Barkada as they step into a new world for the second season premiere of GMA Public Affairs’ hit youth-oriented series MAKA this Saturday, February 1, at 4:45 p.m.

After the heartbreak of losing Douglas MacArthur High School for the Arts, the MAKA squad embarks on a new journey – thinking life will be better and more comfortable as they enter the private school, MacArthur Academy.

However, a new kind of competition awaits them as fresh faces emerge, making their lives - in terms of school, performing and romance - even more challenging than before.

Returning for Season 2 with their significant roles in the series are Sparkle stars Zephanie, Marco Masa, Ashley Sarmiento, Olive May, John Clifford, Chanty from the K-Pop group Lapillus, Sean Lucas, and May Ann Basa, also known as Bangus Girl.

Giving some twists and turns in the lives of the new students of MacArthur Academy are the new cast members: Shan Vesagas as Shan Rodente, Josh Ford as Josh Taylor, Elijah Alejo as Elijah Rodente, and Bryce Eusebio as Bryce Hernandez. They will also be joined by Status by Sparkle influencers MJ Encabo and Cheovy Walter.

The youth-oriented series is directed by Frasco Mortiz, who brings a whole new flavor to the show.

Watch as the Gen Z Barkada navigate their lives in their new school, turning the challenges they will encounter into victories just like before.

MAKA Season 2 premieres this February 1 at 4:45 PM on GMA and via Kapuso Stream. Global Pinoys can watch it via the international channel GMA Pinoy TV.

GMA Network, the Philippines’ leading broadcast media company, reaffirmed its position as the premier source of credible news and captivating entertainment in 2024 — reaching millions of Filipinos across various platforms.  

Nielsen Television Audience Measurement (TAM) data covering January to December 2024 showed GMA’s net reach of 90.8 percent, or over 66 million viewers in Total Philippines. Combined with GTV and other GMA DTT channels, GMA Network tallied an impressive 92.5 percent net reach, equivalent to over 67 million viewers.   

Further solidifying its dominance, 27 out of the top 30 programs in Total Philippines for 2024 were from GMA, with "Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho" taking the top spot.  

Top News Source

GMA Integrated News is still undoubtedly the most trusted news organization in the country. Its flagship news program, "24 Oras," continued its position as the leading source of the biggest local and international news – emerging as the nation’s top news program in 2024 based on Nielsen TV Audience Measurement (TAM). The newscast, which turned 20 last year, has consistently shaped the news landscape of Philippine TV through its news reports, special features, and exclusive stories and interviews. 

As the country prepares for the 2025 Midterm Elections, GMA Integrated News also led the Network’s partnership for “Eleksyon 2025.”  This powerful alliance of more than 50 partners brings together leading organizations in the fields of telecommunications, media, technology, education, business, law, and public service, uniting to provide Filipinos with comprehensive, timely, and accurate information. Prior to this, almost 60 partners heeded the call of GMA Integrated News to be part of the Panata Kontra-Fake News Covenant Signing. 

GMA Regional TV, meanwhile, continued to deliver local news that matters from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, reporting on major events such as the severe effects of El Niño, typhoons, floods, and landslides on communities, in-depth coverage, and other significant stories. 

GMA Radio also ensured that listeners are informed on the latest breaking news. Based on data from AGB Nielsen Media Research and Radio Audience Measurement (RAM), Super Radyo DZBB 594 was also the top source of news and information on radio for 2024 with a 43.4 percent audience share. Similarly, Barangay LS 97.1 Forever! also had an impressive performance in Mega Manila airwaves in 2024. It registered a 50.5 percent audience share.   

Digital Dominance: Highest-ranked media company in Southeast Asia

Online, netizens also turned to the official websites and digital platforms for streaming and on-demand entertainment and news via GMANetwork.com and GMA News Online. 

In 2024, GMA Network further solidified its position as a digital powerhouse. Across Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, GMA’s creator properties tallied 45.5 billion video views, according to Tubular Labs data. 

GMA's growing presence in the digital space is underscored by netizens viewing and engaging with its unique content, which, according to the same data from Tubular Labs, put the Network at the 19th spot for the month of December in the Media and Entertainment category. Having retained its position at year-end, GMA Network remains the highest-ranking media company in Southeast Asia in 2024. 

Netizens also relied on social media for news updates and other information. Across all digital properties, the official accounts of GMA Integrated News collectively drew over 11.5 billion views, with Facebook recording 3.6 billion, TikTok 6.06 billion, and YouTube 1.9 billion 

Further headways in the digital space were made by GMA Network’s creator properties. On social media, GMA Public Affairs official accounts on Facebook drew 6.7 billion views, TikTok 3.1. billion views, and YouTube 2.3 billion views. Collectively, GMA Public Affairs' official social media accounts amassed over 12.2 billion views in 2024. 

Elevating Philippine Cinema and Entertainment

GMA Pictures sealed its reputation as a force in Philippine cinema in 2024. “Green Bones,” a heart-wrenching drama produced with GMA Public Affairs and co-produced with Brightburn Entertainment, earned critical acclaim and won six major awards at the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival, including the much-coveted Best Picture plum.  

The film won five other major awards: Best Actor for Dennis Trillo, Best Supporting Actor for Ruru Madrid, Best Screenplay for National Artist Ricky Lee and Angeli Atienza, Best Cinematography for Neil Daza, and Best Child Performer for Sienna Stevens.  Content from the film also garnered 40 million views across social media platforms.   

Also last year, GMA Pictures and GMA Entertainment Group produced the Network’s Cinemalaya entry, “Balota,” which became a blockbuster hit. The film made its worldwide premiere at the Cinemalaya, as did the restored classic, “Jose Rizal.” Both films are now available on Netflix. Meanwhile, GMA Pictures co-produced the mega-blockbuster “Hello, Love, Again” with Star Cinema.  

GMA Entertainment Group’s "Pulang Araw," widely referred to as the most important Philippine TV series of 2024, was also chosen to be part of the Lunar Codex Project, an initiative that sends creative works to the moon for preservation and archiving purposes. "Pulang Araw" is the first and only television series in the project. 

GMA International Expands Digital Footprint and Earns Prestigious Recognition In 2024, GMA International expanded its reach by launching on YouTube TV, the largest live TV streaming service in the U.S., and extending access worldwide via the iWantTFC platform. 

Highlighting its growing impact, the State of New York declared February 27, 2024, as “GMA Network Day” to honor GMA’s contributions to the Filipino community in the U.S. 

GMA Pinoy TV further solidified its leadership with 5.6 million Facebook followers and over 500,000 YouTube subscribers.

Being “Forever one with the Filipino” as it celebrates its 75th year as a broadcast media industry leader this 2025, GMA Network reaffirms its unwavering commitment to delivering trusted, credible news and engaging entertainment content adapted to various formats and distributed across multiple platforms.   

For more news and updates, visit www.GMANetwork.com.