GMA Network leads the Philippine finalists in the prestigious 2016 New York Festivals’ “World’s Best TV and Films” Competition as nine of its entries are shortlisted this year.
Topping the list of finalists are GMA’s highly esteemed news and public affairs programs. The country’s longest running documentary program I-Witness is a finalist under the Community Portraits category for “Dorm 12,” a touching episode where Kara David interviewed aging inmates at the Correctional Institute for Women. Investigative news magazine show Reporter’s Notebook’s “Hikahos sa Lungsod,” meanwhile, was nominated in the Social Issues category for tackling urban migration in the Philippines.
Front Row’s “Maestra Salbabida” is shortlisted in the Community Service Programs category. The episode centered on the invaluable dedication of Elizabeth Miranda, a teacher from Mindoro Occidental who crosses rivers using a makeshift floating device or salbabida to reach the barrio where she teaches.
Earning a nod from the New York Festivals as well is the first-ever bayaniserye on Philippine primetime TV, Ilustrado. Top-billed by Kapuso star Alden Richards who played the role of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, Ilustrado is a finalist in the Mini Series category.
GMA News TV programs received finalist status as well. Bawal ang Pasaway kay Mareng Winnie is vying for the Best Interview award for its “Yaman ng Palawan” episode. Brigada’s “Ginto ng Smokey Mountain,” a special report on how kids scour the former landfill for gold, is a finalist under the Community Portraits category. “Isang Paa sa Hukay,” produced by documentary show Reel Time, was nominated in the Human Concerns category. The episode told the story of small-scale mining in Camarines Norte.
Two projects from the network’s Program Support Department were also shortlisted: Ilustrado’s opening billboard in the Entertainment Program Opening Title category and GMA News TV’s Father’s Day plug in the Graphic Design: Promotion/Open and IDs category.
The New York Festival’s “World’s Best TV and Films” competition recognizes TV programs and films from over 50 nations.
Last year, the Kapuso Network brought honor to the Philippines as it took home a total of eight awards: four World medals and four finalist certificates for its News and Public Affairs programs. (PR)