GMA bags 7 nominations in 2013 Asian Television Awards

CEBU, Philippines - The Asian Television Awards (ATA) recently released the roll of finalists for its 18th year run and top broadcasting company, GMA Network, obtained seven of only nine nominations from the Philippines.

GMA Network’s flagship newscast “24 Oras” made the cut for the Best News Programme category with its extensive coverage of the aftermath of typhoon Pablo. Anchored by Mel Tiangco and Mike Enriquez, “24 Oras: Bagyong Pablo” depicted the effects of Pablo’s onslaught in Compostela Valley and in Davao Oriental.

Late-night newscast “Saksi,” headlined by Arnold Clavio and Vicky Morales, in turn, came out as one of the finalists for the same category with its entry “Typhoon Pablo’s Trail of Death.”

“Reporter’s Notebook,” hosted by Jiggy Manicad and Maki Pulido, made it to the list of programs that will vie in the Best Current Affairs Programme category for another detailed account of the said catastrophe titled “Bagyong Pablo.”

Environmental program “Born Impact” was short-listed under the Best Natural History or Wildlife Programme category for its episode “When Whales Strand.” Here, veterinarian-hosts Doc Ferds Recio and Doc Nielsen Donato documented the phenomenon of “drowning” among whales and dolphins in the Philippines, or whale stranding. The episode featured never-before-seen videos and new findings from past stranding incidents.

Primetime Queen Marian Rivera was nominated under the Best Actress in a Leading Role category for her portrayal of the main protagonist Angeline in GMA Network’s Pinoy adaptation of the hit Koreanovela “Temptation of Wife.”Multi-awarded actress Lorna Tolentino was, likewise, nominated for the same category for her exceptional performance in the primetime drama “Pahiram ng Sandali” (Chasing Moments).Multitalented comedian and TV host Michael V. was again included in the nominees for Best Comedy Performance by an Actor/Actress category in the longest running gag show “Bubble Gang.” Michael V. already won three Asian TV Awards for the same category in 2004, 2005, and 2006.Founded in 1996, ATA recognizes “excellence in programming, production and performance as determined by an expert panel of over 50 judges from across the region.”The announcement of winners which will come from a total of 238 entries across 12 countries will commence during the Asian TV Awards Gala Dinner and Award Ceremony on Dec. 5 at Singapore ’s Resorts World Sentosa. (FREEMAN)