This December, Unang Hirit celebrates a historic milestone—25 years of making Filipino mornings brighter! As the country’s longest-running morning show, it has become more than just a program; it’s a cherished part of every Filipino’s daily routine. Since 1999, Unang Hirit has been a trusted morning companion, enriching millions of lives with reliable news, meaningful public service, and engaging entertainment.

"25 taon na kaming naghahatid ng mga balita at mga sorpresa. Maraming salamat sa mga kasama naming gumigising ng madaling araw. Bahagi na ng aming buhay ang magpasaya sa inyo, magbigay ng pag-asa at maging alarm clock ninyo sa umaga at source ng mahahalagang impormasyon," said GMA Public Affairs pillar Arnold Clavio. "Mula noon hanggang ngayon, walang pagbabago. Ang mauna kayo sa lahat ang dala-dala naming pangako hanggang sa susunod na 25 taon."

As the show’s unwavering presence continues to resonate with viewers, Susan Enriquez also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the loyal audience that has supported Unang Hirit through the years: "Maraming salamat po sa inyong pagtangkilik. Ang 25 years po ng Unang Hirit ay dahil po sa inyo, dahil po sa inyong pagsubaybay sa amin. Kaya maraming maraming salamat. Sana, 25 years pa ‘yung dumating."

Filipino Mornings with Unang Hirit

For a quarter of a century, Unang Hirit has been setting the pace for Philippine morning television—creating trends, sparking conversations, and shaping the cultural landscape. From its early days to its continued success, it has remained a trusted and loyal companion in Filipino homes, delivering content that’s relevant, meaningful, and impactful.

"Thank you for letting us be a part of your lives for 25 years," shared Lyn Ching. "I hope you keep tuning in every morning with the barkada!"

To celebrate this incredible 25-year journey, Unang Hirit is pulling out all the stops with a week-long anniversary special filled with exciting segments, surprises, and tributes to its legacy.

December 6: Celebrate National Unang Hirit Day!

The grand celebration will culminate on National Unang Hirit Day, December 6, 2024— marking exactly 25 years since the program first aired. On this special day, fans, communities, and partners from all over the country will come together to celebrate everything Unang Hirit stands for.

Expect exciting on-ground activities, massive giveaways, and public service initiatives that embody the heart of Unang Hirit. Whether in Luzon, Visayas, or Mindanao, surprises await every Kapuso, making it a day filled with joy, shared memories, and love.

Sorpresa Bente Singko: Even Bigger Surprises

Ahead of the big anniversary celebration, Unang Hirit launched the wildly popular Sorpresa Bente Singko series, offering viewers unbelievable deals—like rice for just 25 pesos per kilo or LPG for only 25 pesos. But the surprises didn’t stop there—many of these essentials were given away completely free!

During its anniversary week, Unang Hirit is taking this fan-favorite campaign to the next level. Get ready for bigger surprises and more nationwide giveaways as Sorpresa Bente Singko continues to bring excitement and blessings to Filipino families.

An Iconic Theme Song Reimagined

What’s a celebration without music? As part of the festivities, Unang Hirit will unveil a newly arranged version of its iconic theme song. This special rendition will be performed live by the legendary Jose Mari Chan, alongside rising star Zephanie and powerhouse vocalist Mark Bautista. The trio will bring a fresh, modern take on the classic tune—a fitting tribute to 25 unforgettable years.

Adding to the nostalgia, the beloved Sexbomb Dancers—also celebrating their 25th anniversary—will reunite for a special performance. Celebrities, influencers, and other personalities are also set to join the week-long celebration, making it a celebration to remember.

"As somebody na nag-umpisa sa Unang Hirit, 25 years ago, from day 1, you can just imagine the feels that I have. I am so excited," said Suzi Entrata-Abrera. "Medyo na-e-emotional nga ako minsan kasi silver anniversary. Who would've thought 25 years later we're still doing this? At na-a-appreciate pa rin kami ng manood kaya maraming maraming salamat sa inyong lahat sa pagtangkilik ng 25 years. At sa lahat ng taong dumaan sa show na ito on cam, lalo na 'yung off cam at pinaganda nang husto ang Unang Hirit, maraming maraming salamat sa inyo."

A Legacy of Trust and Loyalty

What makes Unang Hirit truly special is the deep bond it shares with its viewers.

"Ang pinaka nakaka-proud being part of this show, is when people walk up to you and tell you, 'Estudyante pa lang po ako, pinapanood ko na kayo. Ngayon po may trabaho na ako, kayo pa rin ang pinapanood ko,” shared Ivan Mayrina. "It's a big honor para sa'kin na pinatuloy tayo ng mga Kapuso natin sa kanilang mga tahanan tuwing umaga at naging parte tayo ng buhay nila. Sana maging parte pa rin tayo ng buhay nila for as long as we can. Hangga't kaya namin, nandito kami sa Unang Hirit para sa inyo."

As Unang Hirit marks its 25th year, the program extends its deepest gratitude to its loyal viewers. The anniversary celebration is a tribute to the trust, love, and unwavering support received over the years.

Here’s to 25 more years of delivering news, public service, and joy to the Filipino people—with dedication, heart, and, of course, Unang Hirit!

Catch Unang Hirit weekdays at 5:30 a.m. on GMA. Global Pinoys can watch it via GMA Pinoy TV.

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

A new era of fun learning unfolds this November 30 as GMA Public Affairs launches its latest infotainment program, “Dami Mong Alam, Kuya Kim,” airing every Saturday on GMA Network at 10:45 AM.

Hosted by Philippine Trivia King Kuya Kim Atienza, Dami Mong Alam, Kuya Kim promises to take viewers on a fun-filled and exciting journey of discovery – blending entertainment with mind-expanding trivia.

A fusion of fun and facts – the Kuya Kim way

Dami Mong Alam, Kuya Kim is a fast-paced show that delves into the most trending topics and viral videos, uncovering the stories, science, and fascinating details behind them. With Kuya Kim's signature wit and charm, each episode is a rollercoaster of excitement, education, and discovery. From bizarre animal encounters to everyday phenomena, this show offers a perfect blend of fun and facts for the whole family.

Known for his curious mind and penchant for always sharing stories behind the existence of things and phenomena, Kuya Kim shares that this new show will allow viewers and netizens to see a different side of him. Here, he combines humor, relatability, and expertise, delivering trivia and insights that keep viewers hooked.

“Kuya Kim pa rin ang mapapanood nila, pero ibang flavor naman ng Kuya Kim. Sa mundong ito, kailangan flexible tayo. At sa edad na 58, medyo millennial, Gen Zish Kuya Kim naman. Pero ang essence ay pareho pa rin, nagbibigay pa rin ng impormasyon na makabuluhan at magagamit sa pang-araw-araw na buhay,” he said.

Social Media as a learning tool

A lover of reading, Kuya Kim has always been fond of immersing himself in knowledge and trivia. And as technology has become another venue for learning, he has further embraced learning, the digital way.

“Napakahilig kong magbasa. Dati rati, before social media, I was reading books and magazines all the time. But now, everything has turned digital, I still read books. Ang Kindle ko nandito sa telepono ko, and I watch a lot of videos and podcasts.

As his fans and followers know, Kuya Kim is very active on social media.

“Social media is a must. Some people say that we should avoid social media because it is bad for mental health. Social media is neutral – it would depend on the person to use it positively or negatively. As much as I could, I would like to be salt and light in social media, and at the same time I follow people who are salt and light as well – so it becomes a positive experience. But being in the public eye, it’s important to be immersed in social media. We have to know the trends, how the algorithm works, how each platform works, and use it to be salt and light to all my viewers and all my subscribers.”

An exciting pilot episode

For its pilot episode on November 30, Dami Mong Alam, Kuya Kim features the viral video of a daring snake handler's encounter with a King Cobra. Kuya Kim shares fascinating snake trivia, complete with stunning visuals and expert input.

To add to the excitement, Kuya Kim brings his pet snake for the public to see and experience firsthand. The episode culminates in a nail-biting live adventure tracking a real-life snake sighting.

Viewers should also catch the story about a TikTok user whose savings have gone to waste because of an uninvited occupant in the bamboo coin bank and the viral video of a stream that appears to be ablaze.

Don't miss the premiere of “Dami Mong Alam, Kuya Kim” this November 30 on GMA Network. Global Pinoys can catch it via its international channel GMA Life TV.

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

 

 

Sparkle is all set to dazzle once more with its newest teen charmers and young stars!

Last 2022, GMA Network's talent management arm launched three batches of stars, name Sparkle's Next Brightest Stars, Sparkle Love Teams, and Sparkada. With Sparkle's vision and direction, these artists were able to grow their starpower bigger and brighter than ever before in just a year's time.

Now, Sparkle will be shining the spotlight to these bright, energetic, and bubbly teen stars with the launch of Sparkle Teens. With a mix of former child actors turned teenaged head-turners and completely fresh faces, Sparkle is excited to show the world how these Sparkle Teens shine!

Rear (L-R): Zyren dela Cruz, Josh Ford, Charlie Fleming, Princess Aliyah, Keisha Serna, Andrei Sison, Antonio Vinzon Middle (L-R): John clifford, Waynona Collings, Liana Mae, Naomi Park, Aya Domingo, Gaeas Mischa, Selina Griffin, Marco Masa Front (L-R): Lee Victor, Bryce Eusebio, Ashley Sarmiento, Aidan Veneracion, James Graham

Sparkle consultant and renowned starmaker Mr. M stated that despite their ages, these teens do have "It" that certain quality to make it big and far in showbiz.

"[They have the] Enthusiasm and willingness to sacrifice for the craft. Willing sila mag workshops, kumuha ng advanced classes [to improve]."

 Sparkle's Assistant Vice President Ms. Joy Marcelo believes that the talent agency has prepared the Sparkle Teens well enough for them to take on any challenge that the industry throws their way. With nothing to dull their shine, these teens will sparkle!

 "We had these kids go through months of intense workshops before their launch as Sparkle Teens, They trained with the best acting, singing, and dancing coaches to help them become the stars that they're meant to be. No easy task but they pulled through really well,"

"Ask any one of them to perform and they will deliver, that's how confident I am with the caliber and star power of our Sparkle Teens. And it's a big plus that these kids genuinely love to perform - they are a joy to watch".

Additionally, Ms. Ana Feleo, Sparkle's head acting coach, expressed her excitement for the launch of the Sparkle Teens. After playing a major role in their development as artists, she has witnessed their struggles and triumphs and now, all that's left for them to do is flourish.

"There is no doubt that they are talented, and they all have their unique strengths. They've only started to bloom, and I cannot wait to see how far they will go in this industry that we respect and love."

Lastly, Sparkle's Senior Assistant Vice President Ms. Annette Gozon-Valdes forecasts a busy and bright future ahead for the Sparkle Teens. 

"There is so much to look forward to for the Sparkle Teens in the next coming months. To name a few, we have a billboard, music video, and social media campaigns that higlight all of their unique personalities and talents, which fans would not want to miss out on! They will also be cast in teen-oriented shows of GMA, while some are already lined up for different dramas. The teens will also be guesting in All-Out Sundays, which will give viewers the chance to se them in a different light and also get to know them better,"

"I am truly proud of how far the Sparkle teens have come from day one. These kids are not only good-looking and talented, but they are also very hardworking, humble, sweet, and kind. I am confident that after they are seen showcasing their unique talents, fans will genuinely appreciate them and come to love them as the next big stars of this industry.

 

Less than a week after being introduced as GMA Artist Center's new consultant, Johnny Manahan, better known as the starmaker Mr M., has already begun one of his main tasks, that is to help the agency discover promising new talents.

As a talent agency, GMA Artist Center has discovered and honed several of the network's talents who have made names for themselves as actors, and endorsers, singers.

When the pandemic started in March 2020, GMA Artist Center immediately shifted to hold online auditions via its official website.

For the first time, Mr. M sat on the screening panel for this week's auditions. Always present during these auditions are GMA executives, GMA Entertainment directors, GMA Artist Center Senior Talent Managers, GMA Artist Center's Talent Development team, and GMA Artist Center's Talent Recruitment team.

Mr. M, a Philippine entertainment industry pillar, and GMA Artist Center, one of the top talent agencies in the Philippines, are excited to collaborate and discover the country's next superstars.

At first glance, one would think that Helen has no problem. She is always cheerful and funny. But behind her smiles and laughter, she hides her real dilemmas in life.

Her eldest has been bedridden due to Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy, and her husband has already given up his goal of working abroad for fear of being away from them. So in order to pay for the lifetime medical care of her eldest son, and to support the education of her other child, Helen has tried various legal rackets, sold everything that could be sold, and searched the whole town just to borrow money.

She was once invited to participate in a beauty contest for mothers, and since then, she has pursued a career in it. But not every contest has been easy, especially when at the same time, she is also questioning her own worth as a wife and as a mother.

This Saturday, July 10, watch Magpakailanman’s “NANAY KONTESERA”.

Led by the new Kapuso Pokwang as Helen, this also features Boom Labrusca, Arya Mariano, Tart Carlos and Gold Aceron.

This is directed by Rechie Del Carmen, researched by Cynthia Delos Santos, and written by Benson Logronio.

Beginning December 11, finish the week right with well-loved GMA dramas only on Kapuso Weekend Watchfest!

Ten episodes in bite-sized clips of “The Rich Man’s Daughter”, “Someone to Watch over Me”, and “Let the Love Begin” are uploaded weekly on GMA Network’s official Facebook page.

Facebook users now have the chance to watch “The Rich Man’s Daughter,” the ground-breaking 2015 drama series that bravely tackled lesbianism on Philippine TV. Rhian Ramos showcases her versatility as an actress as she breathes life to the main character, Jade. Everyone’s perspective of her life and her persona will change once she finds love with another woman (Glaiza de Castro). Episodes of The Rich Man’s Daughter are uploaded every Friday at 3PM.

Uploaded every Saturday at 3PM are episodes of “Someone to Watch over Me”. The story, bannered by Tom Rodriguez, Lovi Poe, and Max Collins, is about a wife’s unwavering love for her husband who is suffering from early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. The romantic drama series is directed by the late Maryo J. delos Reyes.

And finally, relive the kilig moments and fall in love all over again with “Let the Love Begin,” the beautiful story of Jeni (Aiai Delas Alas) and Tony (Gardo Versoza) and their respective children Erick (Ruru Madrid) and Pia (Gabbi Garcia). Can their love help their parents heal their wounds? Will Jeni and Tony let the love begin for Erick and Pia? Episodes are uploaded every Sunday at 3PM.

Through Kapuso Weekend Watchfest, Kapuso fans and even non-Filipino speakers can watch these topnotch GMA dramas with English subtitles directly on GMA Network’s Facebook page! Never miss any episode by following GMA Network on www.facebook.com/GMANetwork.

Last October 13, Khalil Ramos officially signed an exclusive management contract with GMA Artist Center, which makes now a Kapuso Artist. The signing is graced by different personalities such as GMA Senior Vice President for Entertainment Group Lilybeth G. Rasonable, GMA Senior Assistant Vice President for Alternative Productions Gigi Santiago-Lara, GMA Artist Center Assistant Vice President and Head for Talent Imaging and Marketing Unit Simoun Ferrer, and GMA Artist Center Seniour Talent Manager Joy Marcelo.

Khalil 's entry as part of the Kapuso Network makes a great deal for him and he's happy about it. And he is very much excited to be able to collaborate with such talented skilled people of GMA. He shared also that he felt loved! Everyone that he met so far on the said network has been very welcoming.

 

The feeling of being watched! Most of the times it's freaky. But do you ever get the sense that you are being watched? Or that you are not alone?

If you have ever felt like being spied upon whether by someone or something, more often than not, your instincts are correct. Researchers believe that humans are sensitive to gaze as it signals intimacy as well as danger; two of the things we need to pay attention to for our own well-being.

Beginning September 28, GMA Network raises the bar with an exceptional and one-of-a-kind program featuring the biggest and brightest Kapuso stars in the drama anthology ‘I Can See You’ on the Telebabad block.

This unique drama anthology which highlights four mini-series – Love On The Balcony, High Rise Lovers, The Promise, and Truly. Madly. Deadly. – dwells on its common visual storytelling mnemonic device which is the use of a camera as a witness to the tales of love and mystery from everyday people; hence the title – I Can See You. 

The ground-breaking program gifts viewers with compelling, contemporary, and unique stories produced by four different teams in a remarkable four-week viewing experience.

In observance of anti-COVID-19 protocols alongside the Network’s precautionary measures, the cast and crew of the show underwent RT-PCR tests, lock-in tapings and strictly practiced government-mandated safety and health protocols on the set. 

Kick-starting the drama anthology is “Love On The Balcony” top-billed by Asia's Multimedia Star Alden Richards, Kapuso hunk Pancho Magno, and Kapuso leading Lady Jasmine Curtis-Smith. It tells the timely story of a wedding videographer, Gio (Alden), who crosses paths with a frontline nurse, Lea (Jasmine). Uninspired and creatively drained, Gio is encouraged by his business partner and friend Val (Pancho) to search for a potential fling during quarantine. After their unfortunate encounter, romance eventually blossoms between Gio and Lea amidst the pandemic. Is this the beginning of a beautiful chapter in their love story or is it just destiny’s way of putting people in our lives for a purpose? 

Completing the cast are Denise Barbacena and Shyr Valdez. Love On The Balcony is directed by LA Madridejos which airs beginning September 28.

Heating up primetime TV viewing on October 5 is the second installment of the series “High Rise Lovers” which stars Kapuso Premier Drama Actress Lovi Poe, actress-beauty queen Winwyn Marquez and multitalented Kapuso actor Tom Rodriguez. It follows the story of married couple Samantha (Lovi) and Luis (Tom) whose relationship dwindles as their opposing goals in life get the best of them. After moving into a new condominium unit, Samantha continues to strive for a big promotion at work while Luis, an unemployed contractor, is forced to accept a renovation job for another occupant – the mysterious and sultry Ysabel (Winwyn). Will Luis yield to the temptation of a new lover who comforts his bruised ego or will Samantha realize that her marriage is still worth saving? 

Also starring in the episode are Teresa Loyzaga and Kenneth “Tetay” Ocampo. High Rise Lovers is under the helm of Monti Parungao.

Bannered by talented Kapuso stars Andrea Torres, Yasmien Kurdi, Benjamin Alves and Paolo Contis, “The Promise” gives viewers more reasons to believe in the power of love this October 12. The story begins with a rich widowed man named Frank (Paolo) who loses his passion for life and became a recluse after losing his wife Clarisse (Yasmien) from an accident. When Jude (Benjamin), his cousin and right-hand man in the company, visits him in the lake house where he stays at, Frank takes an interest in the latter’s girlfriend Ivy (Andrea), an aspiring artist who is willing to do anything to take her family out of poverty. 

Also playing an exciting role in this series is Maey Bautista. The Promise is directed by Zig Dulay.

Finally, set to bring mystery and romance is the last installment “Truly. Madly. Deadly.” headlined by Kapuso Drama King Dennis Trillo, versatile Kapuso actress Rhian Ramos, and Ultimate Star Jennylyn Mercado premiering on October 19. Coleen (Jennylyn) is a professional woman who, after being ridiculed online for a scandal with a married man, moves out of the city and works in a remote resort where she meets the mysterious resident IT guy named Drew (Dennis). Life seems to be going well for the recovering Coleen until her best friend turned enemy Abby (Rhian) shows up and her past begins to haunt her once again. 

Joining the talented cast of this episode is Jhoana Marie Tan and with the special participation of Ruby Rodriguez. Truly. Madly. Deadly is directed by Jorron Lee Monroy.

Don’t miss out on GMA Network’s newest and much-awaited offering this year ‘I Can See You’ beginning September 28, right after Encantadia, on the Telebabad block.

If you're into KPop you'll definitely would love this new channel in GMA Networks digital waves, the Hally Pop. The Network is giving its audiences an interesting and exciting reward with more viewing experience of the Asian culture, particularly the KPop. This new channel venture is in partnership with Jungo TV that is believed to be the newest and first ever digital channel in the Philippines that’s set to be a one-stop-shop for K-Pop, variety, and entertainment programs beginning September 20.

Hallypop is here to give digital TV viewers a front seat to Asian pop culture with a daily dose of hit shows across the continent.

Get ready for the best tunes in Korea and the most sensational music show on TV. Fantastic performances and awe-inspiring harmony by the nation's top musicians await viewers on Music Bank. Follow the latest trend in the Korean music scene through the K-chart, a summary of the week's hottest songs.

Know what the hype is all about on the airing of the top-rating South Korean variety show Running Man, as it arrives in the country for the very first time. Experience a mix of thrills with its games and series of missions that are entertaining and will keep viewers at the edge of their seats.

Showcasing the highly-requested concerts in the country and across Asia, HallyStage is set to give the spotlight to the hottest singers in the concert stage.

GMA Network Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon shared his excitement towards this partnership with international content distributor Jungo TV, “We are grateful to Jungo TV and Mr. Chung for entrusting us with their channel and content to be the first here in the Philippines to distribute their content.”

First Vice President for Program Management Jose Mari R. Abacan aims to widen GMA’s library of content via Hallypop, “We have the heart of fans and that's going to be seen in the way we program Hallypop. A lot of people are looking forward to that Hallyu (Korean Wave) content. Having another channel that could actually focus on having certain materials like variety shows, K-pop, and reality shows, it can complement what we have started for the Heart of Asia so I'm excited about it because we have a lot of things to learn from these Asian contents.”

“Hallypop represents a new and exciting direction in the reimagined world of Asian entertainment,” said Jungo TV CEO and co-founder George Chung. "We are excited to expand on Hallypop’s success in the United States and honored to be partnered with GMA, led by the vision and leadership of Mr. Gozon, that allows us to bring top-tier Korean and Asian pop culture entertainment to the best and most loyal fans in the world.”

For GMA Affordabox users, be sure to rescan to get dibs on Hallypop’s test broadcast by clicking the SCAN button on the remote and wait for all the exclusive channels to appear. Easy as 1,2,3!

A full rundown of Hallypop’s programming is available on www.gmanetwork.com/gmahallypop

Don’t miss the premiere of Hallypop and its exciting lineup only on GMA Affordabox, the Network’s digital TV receiver.