Why is Mike Enriquez not in GMA TV, radio shows?

FILE: Journalist Mike Enriquez of GMA News and Public Affairs at the Pinesville gate of White Plains Subdivision in Quezon City, Metro Manila, the Philippines. (Photo By Josh Lim (Sky Harbor) – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0)

You might be wondering why you aren’t seeing and hearing Mike Enriquez on GMA’s 24 Oras and Super Radyo dzBB, yet, you still have not figured out what could be the reason behind it.

To make this clear to everyone, the newscaster laid bare why he was absent from the programs he anchors.

“I am currently on medical leave,” the 66-year-old newscaster said in a statement dated August 23, Wednesday.

“I am being treated for kidney disease and I am scheduled to undergo a heart bypass operation in mid-September,” he continued.

His doctors, Mike said, told him that he will be able to do his normal activities two to four weeks after his surgery. But for now, he was advised that it will be best for him to rest from work and avoid stress to keep away from any medical emergency before his bypass.

While he will not be able to deliver news to his fellow Filipinos for a while, Mike said he continues to perform his duties and responsibilities as president of Radio GMA Network (RGMA), Inc. and as the consultant for the radio of GMA Network Inc.

Sharing more about his kidney condition to his fellow broadcaster Ivan Mayrina on Wednesday, August 22, Mike said he got it from his father; that regular medication is needed.

Now that he is in medical leave, the news anchor then admitted that he misses going on air, giving the latest updates happening in and out of the country.

“Alam mo, kung nami-miss ka ng mga tagapakinig at mga nanonood, mas nakaka-miss para sa katulad natin [taga-pagbalita], ‘yung mga audience (You know, if your listeners and viewers miss you, for us broadcasters, we miss our audience more),” he said.

But viewers and listeners do not have to worry anymore as Mike assured, “Ang pangako ko po ay isa lang, babalik po ako (I only have one promise, I will be back).”

The news caster then thanked everyone, especially those who expressed concern, support, and wishes for his good health.

“Buo po ang aking sampalataya sa Panginoon at sa galing at pangangalaga ng aking mga doktor. At sa dasal ng maraming maraming mga tao (I have strong faith to the Lord and to the capabilities and care of my doctors. And to the prayers of many people),” he said.

His network also gave its full support to Mike as he is facing such challenge in his life.

“We fully support him and are praying for his successful surgery and quick recovery. Together with our viewers all over the world, his friends and colleagues here in GMA look forward to welcoming back a healthier and stronger Mike Enriquez soon.” its statement read.