Award-winning news anchor Mel Tiangco, a pillar of GMA Network’s flagship news program 24 Oras, has renewed her contract with GMA Integrated News.
Tiangco, known for her dedication to public service, reaffirmed her commitment with the phrase “Mas malaking misyon, mas malawak na paglilingkod sa bayan!” (Greater mission, greater public service!) during the signing held on April 2.
GMA Network executives, including Chairman Attorney Felipe L. Gozon, President and CEO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Felipe S. Yalong, and Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso.
A proud Kapuso since 1996, Tiangco has been at the forefront of delivering news and public service for more than three decades. She has anchored the newscasts Saksi and Frontpage: Ulat Ni Mel Tiangco, and is one of the pioneer anchors of the leading news program 24 Oras. Her contract renewal is made more special as the GMA’s flagship newscast marks its 20th year on air this 2024. She has also been an integral part of GMA Integrated News’ special reports and coverage on various national and global concerns.
Gozon underscored Tiangco’s undeniable contribution to Philippine media.
“Mel Tiangco was already accomplished and popular before she joined Channel 7 in 1996, 28 years ago. But since then, her skills as a news anchor, particularly on the top-rated program 24 Oras, have only improved. Today, fondly known as Tita Mel, she’s not just an icon but an institution,” the top executive says.
Duavit likewise praised Tiangco’s credibility and commitment to delivering top-notch news and unwavering public service.
“I’ve known Mel for years, and hearing her colleagues’ messages reminds me of her exceptional qualities. She’s gifted, kind, and dedicated to her work. She’s an inspiration not only to her colleagues but also to me. Thank you for being who you are and what you’ve become. We’re inspired and motivated by you, knowing we have Mel Tiangco as a Kapuso,” says Duavit.
Yalong, on the other hand, praised Tiangco for humility throughout the years.
“I’ve known Mel since our previous station. Negotiating with her was smooth, like a casual chat. She’s the country’s most credible journalist, as even the late Mike Enriquez would confirm,” he shares.
Amoroso likewise thanked Tiangco for being an inspiration to the GMA Integrated News team.
“GMA Integrated News is grateful for your dedication, from our work in the GMA Kapuso Foundation to our current collaboration. You’ve remained a pillar of news and solidified your legacy as one of the most credible journalists in Philippine media. Thank you for inspiring both on and off-camera. We’re proud to have you continue as our anchor for 24 Oras,” says Amoroso.
Tiangco’s heart is full of gratitude as she remains a loyal Kapuso.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you very much for your continued support for 24 Oras. My appreciation for that cannot be measured by mere gratitude, and it became the Number 1 Filipino TV program in 2023. This means it was watched more than any other program across the Philippines. Just imagine their loyalty to 24 Oras? Thank you very much, and we will continue to fulfill our duty to all of you wherever you are in the world. You can truly trust 24 Oras,” she said.
Present to celebrate Tiangco’s contract renewal were GMA Integrated News Consultant Grace Dela Peña-Reyes, Vice President and Deputy Head for News Programs and Specials Michelle Seva, AVP for News Cluster 1 Tonio Magsumbol, AVP and Deputy Head for News Operations Reina Dimapawi, AVP for Integrated News, Regional TV and Synergy Administration Maria Teresa Bernabe, AVP and Deputy Head for Integrated News Social Media Team Aileen Perez, and 24 Oras Program Manager Marielle Ventura, and Corporate Affairs and Communications Vice President Angel Javier Cruz.
With a career spanning over 40 years, Tiangco has been regarded as one of the country’s highly esteemed news anchors. On top of her 24 Oras duties, Tiangco continues to bring heartwarming and inspiring stories through the award-winning drama anthology Magpakailanman and help others via the network’s socio-civic arm Kapuso Foundation where she currently serves as its ambassador and special adviser.