Media programs in television and radio were lauded at the 19th Gandingan Awards, organized by the UP Community Broadcasters’ Society.
Brigada News FM and DZRH AM were hailed as this year’s most development-oriented networks for terrestrial radio.
Ted Failon at DJ Chacha and Sana Lourd of True FM were also recognized as the best FM program and best radio drama, respectively.
GMA Network’s roster of nominees and hosts also graced the awards night, earning recognition once again from the university-based award body.
24 Oras’s report on spotting deepfakes was cited as the most development-oriented feature story, while anchor Emil Sumangil was hailed as its best news anchor for the year. This is the second award received by Sumangil, as he was named Best Field Reporter by the body in 2018.
Raffy Tima, anchor of GTV’s Balitanghali, won as this year’s best program host for the show, as the newscast is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary in November.
“Balitanghali is now in its 20th year. This is a wonderful gift to the entire team,” he said in an exclusive interview. Tima is one of its pioneer anchors, along with Pia Arcangel.
Jessica Soho, Martin Javier, and Kim Atienza were separately cited as this year’s ‘Gandingan ng Kalikasan’, ‘Gandingan ng Kabataan’, and ‘Gandingan ng Edukasyon’.
The Atom Araullo Specials report entitled “On the Deaths Incurred from the War on Drugs” was cited as the most development-oriented documentary.
JulieXStell: Ang Ating Tinig was given the special citation as this year’s best musical program, with Julie Anne San Jose accepting the award.
“Stell and I wanted to emphasize the value of collaboration. We believe that music is a powerful tool for driving awareness, connection, and change,” San Jose said through a video message.
Other program winners that showcased their commitment to development include Pulang Araw for drama and Dear SV for public service.
ABS-CBN’s Winnie Cordero and Ariel Rojas were named ‘Gandingan ng Kababaihan’ and ‘Gandingan ng Agham at Teknolohiya’. TV5’s Jiggy Manicad was also cited as this year’s “Gandingan ng Kabuhayan”.
State-run PTV 4 also garnered wins at the Gandingan for programs On Assignment, Artsy Craftsy, and Iskoolmates.
This year’s Gandingan Awards centered on its theme of ‘weaving histories’ through the power of media’s work in shaping the country’s national development.
“In an era where there is misinformation and disinformation that distorts our history, this is a clear call for all of us to live up to our responsibility for the truth,” said UPLB instructor Guien Garma, adviser of the Community Broadcasters’ Society, in an interview.
