Mike Enriquez Has Died at 71
GMA news anchor and radio and television star Mike Enriquez has passed away on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, the network confirms after heavy speculation. The veteran broadcaster was 71 years old.
"It is with profound sadness that GMA Network announces the passing of our beloved Kapuso, Mr. Miguel 'Mike' C. Enriquez, who peacefully joined our Creator on August 29, 2023," GMA Network's statement read.
Enriquez was a pillar of broadcast journalism, a staple in a number of GMA Network's public affairs programs for decades. With a career that spans about 50 years in the business, the anchor was best known for his signature voice and hard-hitting reporting style. He had served in various capacities with GMA and other radio stations, becoming a broadcast journalist, news editor, and even station manager.
Enriquez began his career with the Manila Broadcasting Company back in 1969. From there, he would head some small-to-medium-sized stations. He served in a number of positions with Freedom Broadcasting Radio Network and Radio Mindanao Network, as well.
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After a few decades, he transferred to GMA, and in 1994, he was named its head of the radio division. With GMA, Enriquez would establish himself as one of the leading voices of his generation of reporters. He has hosted various news programs over the years, such as 24 Oras, I-Witness, Imbestigador, and Saksi: GMA Headline Balita, among others.
The broadcast stalwart also served as a consultant for radio operations and as station manager of Super Radyo DZBB 594 AM. Among his most notable phrases include "Hindi ko kayo tatantanan." He was known as a consummate professional on and off the air by his peers.
Among his many accolades include Best Male Newscaster at the Golden Dove Awards, Silver Camera Award at the US Film and Video Festival, and Best News Commentary at Catholic Mass Media Awards.
Unfortunately, Enriquez's health had been in decline in the past few years. He would go on long leaves and has done so since 2021, following a kidney transplant that kept him out for a few months. The newscaster even mulled retirement at one point.
Announcing the news of his passing, his co-anchor on 24 Oras Mel Tiango added: "Sa mahigit limang dekada n'ya sa industriya ng broadcasting, hindi maikakaila ang tatak at kontribusyon ni Mike Enriquez sa trabahong kanyang minahal nang buong puso."
He is survived by his wife, Lizabeth "Baby" Yumping.
