New Era for Philippine Entertainment: ABS-CBN Execs All Smiles At GMA Gala
Picture this: two media behemoths, once locked in an epic battle for supremacy, are now raising their glasses in a toast of harmony.
In an unusual turn of events, ABS-CBN executives were spotted attending the GMA Gala 2023, burying a decades-long rivalry that had once seemed insurmountable. This unexpected show of solidarity comes after ABS-CBN faced challenges with the Duterte administration’s non-renewal of its broadcast franchise in 2020, forcing the network to forge an unprecedented partnership with several media companies, including its long-time competitor, GMA.
On Saturday (July 22), ABS-CBN Chief Executive Officer Carlo L. Katigbak and Chief Operating Officer Cory Vidanes were all smiles at the GMA Gala, where they were welcomed by GMA Executives led by Chairman, President and CEO Felipe R. Gozon.
While not citing ABS-CBN, Mr. Gozon said during his speech that the 73-year-old media network is “celebrat[ing] a collaboration,” as he acknowledged “our peers in the industry and our valued partners coming together in camaraderie and friendship.”
A historic moment for Philippine TV: L-R ABS-CBN COO Cory Vidanes, GMA Network Chairman Felipe Gozon, ABS-CBN CEO Carlo Katigbak, and GMA Films President Annette Gozon-Valdes at the GMA Gala 2023
The ABS-CBN executives shared the table with prized talents Vice Ganda and Anne Curtis, both hosts of noontime show “It’s Showtime,” which now airs on GMA Network’s GTV.
The rift between ABS-CBN and GMA is the stuff of legend, and it was almost unimaginable to see their executives attending the same event, let alone collaborating in any way. But the changing landscape of the media industry, coupled with the challenges ABS-CBN has faced, has paved the way for an unexpected alliance between the two networks.
The rivalry often fueled intense exchanges between staff and network supporters, as recalled by veteran journalist and former ABS-CBN News anchor Ces Drilon, who at the event told Esquire Philippines, "I think this would have been unheard of, impossible even, because the competition was stiff.”
“You wouldn't catch the CEO of one network and another in the same ballroom. So I think it's something to celebrate in a way,” Drilon added.
Drilon herself had a moment with news anchor rivals Arnold Clavio and Jessica Soho.
“I even had pictures, and even spoke with Jessica, when in the past we never talked to each other back in our [news] beats,” Drilon said.
View this post on Instagram>pThe sight of ABS-CBN executives rubbing elbows with their GMA counterparts at the Gala 2023 speaks volumes about change in the air. What was once a bitter ratings feud has evolved into a potential game-changer, stirring curiosity and excitement among viewers.>pCurrently, ABS-CBN and GMA Network’s joint ventures include production of “Unbreak My Heart” and content sharing on iWant TFC. Movies co-produced by the two networks are also in the pipeline. >pThe ABS-CBN-GMA partnership is a bold step towards a more inclusive and vibrant media landscape in the Philippines. As the two networks work together, their collective effort has the potential to reshape the future of Philippine media, fostering an environment where creativity, innovation, and quality content thrive.>pWe raise our glasses to this legendary showdown's end, to a future where rivals can come together and surprise us all. Now, who's up for popcorn? This is one show we don't want to miss. >p>p
