GMA Network triumphs at the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting+ Awards 2024

Unang Hirit won the Set Design Enabling Special Effects – Phil. for its world-class studio that combines aesthetics and function with innovative elements (Supplied Photo)

As it takes bold steps to embrace the industry’s rapid digital advancements, media giant GMA Network was among the broadcasting companies in Asia-Pacific recognized at the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting+ Awards 2024, held last May 30 in Singapore.

The Network took home three awards in the following categories: “Series Production –  Philippines,”  “Technology Animation – Philippines,” and “Set Design Enabling Special Effects – Philippines.”

GMA Integrated News’ (GMAIN) flagship newscast “24 Oras” won the “Series Production – Philippines” award for “Banta ng Nagbabagong Klima.” The latter was a series of special reports that investigated the effects of climate change. It shed light on the impact of extreme weather conditions, deforestation, and the displacement of communities and at the same time showcased tales of resilience and innovation in adapting to the threat of climate change.

Earning the award for “Technology Animation – Philippines” was the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Sports Series Project of GMAIN’s Social Media Team and GMA New Media Inc. The winning entry featured the country’s first-ever AI presenters, Maia and Marco, who bring the biggest news on NCAA Season 99 as well as updates on local and international sports featuring Filipino athletes on the social media platforms of GMAIN, GMA Sports, and GMA Synergy.

Meanwhile, the Philippines’ longest-running morning show Unang Hirit (UH) won the “Set Design Enabling Special Effects – Philippines” for its world-class studio that combines aesthetics and function with innovative elements. Unveiled in October last year, the winning studio set was designed by the U.S.-based company FX Design Group, which is known for its use of cutting-edge technology in projects for some of the world’s top broadcasters. It was constructed with the help of Script2010, the in-house construction arm of GMA Network, and GMA’s Engineering Department, which has been responsible for the creation of GMA’s studios over the years.

“This win from Asia Pacific Broadcasting Awards 2024 cements GMAIN’s foothold as the news authority of Filipinos, bringing timely and relevant stories including the defining issue of our time, effects of climate change, to a much larger audience across the Philippines and overseas while fearlessly trailblazing the use of technology,” says Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso.

“We are very proud of our ‘Unang Hirit’ team as they continue to find ways to delight audiences and innovate on the show after 25 years on the air; this newest set is our most beautiful ever and we are very grateful for the recognition from the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Awards,” shares First Vice President for GMA Public Affairs Nessa S. Valdellon.

The Asia-Pacific Broadcasting+ Awards seeks to recognize innovation and excellence in projects across the Asia-Pacific region that advance the field of broadcasting in the areas of technology, digitalization, and engineering.

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