The vindication of Mel Tiangco

By Bot Glorioso

Mel Tiangco is first to admit that she feels vindicated now that GMA 7’s Magpakailanman consistently enjoys the top spot of the ratings game since its revival months ago. You see, the drama anthology was “axed” in 2007 citing, according to the lady news anchor, “the show is already out of programming trend” as reason. It was only last November when Magpakailanman came on air anew.

“I’m vindicated,” says Mel regarding the success of the show. “I’m so happy, first, because of its good ratings. It proved that people welcome me in that genre and the show appeals to them. I have a fantastic production team but most of all, it took away my sadness. Remember, I even cried during the presscon announcing its return? Perhaps, it’s because for a long time I kept to myself the pain that I felt when they told me about its cancellation. False defense ko lang pala yung sagot ko dati na ‘eh di tanggalin.’ Iba na daw kasi ang programming kaya tinanggal, ang uso daw reality (show). Probably now, they realized how could these realities (about life) go away? There will always be stories of people.”

It took two years to convince Mel to do the show again. One of her conditions prior to giving her nod was for the show to project her being a broadcast journalist. She wanted stories that hit the headlines. “We featured the story of the woman who plunged to her death in the LRT. And we’ll be featuring more.”

Inspiring stories are also a must for Mel to share to people, and those that are worth-emulating. “I want to inspire people. I want to tell them who among us exist without a problem? All of us have our own worries. You just have to learn how to deal with them. In the end, lahat may solusyon.

“That, I’d also like to impart with the foundation (Kapuso Foundation, Inc. where Mel sits as EVP and COO). I want to give (speedy) solutions. We have earned the reputation of taking actions (during times of calamities or disasters) ahead of everybody. It reflects my character.” It only proves true one of the foundation’s missions of providing quick-response relief operations to fulfill the most immediate needs in times of crises.

A big no-no are topics that revolve around politics or center on political figures as the show may bring undue advantage to those eyeing for public office. Magpakailanman dwells more on stories that uplift the human spirit.

Asked if she, too, gets emotional with their stories, Mel replies in the affirmative. “How can you not be affected like when you learn about the story of a mom who has schizophrenic children? So to lessen the emotional pain, extend help as long as you can. You can easily discern if one is just taking advantage.”

Mel also hosts Powerhouse and co-anchors 24 Oras. But for her, it is heading the Kapuso Foundation, Inc. that requires much effort. “You have to look for funds, conceptualize and implement projects. I have 35 people under me. That alone is stressful. “

So what drives her to do all this? “It’s the manifestation of my job… for all the blessings that I’ve been receiving all my life parang I feel I owe it to my countrymen. In the course of my work as a broadcast journalist, I get to meet a lot of people who are in need and you can’t just pity them kaya mainam na may foundation kasi you have all the support. The network supports me (in lending a helping hand).”

She considers those numerous text messages and letters from televiewers as “energy boosters.” “Whenever people come to realize through the show that there’s still hope no matter what, na fu-fulfill din ako. For me, fulfillment is not just about having a show or a good talent fee. I think I’ve reached that level wherein worldly things no longer matter but what I can give in return.”

No wonder Mel is more involved with charity work. She devotes much time to the foundation, saying, “I’m grateful for all the blessings that God is giving me and my family. By helping other people, I’m giving back to the Lord by helping others. It’s the best way. It’s easy to pray but you can also help.”

Deep in her heart, Mel knows there’s much to do that would make life more fulfilling. “I always think about so often what more can I do for my country and my countrymen. I want something that will change the lives of our people in one way or another, di ko lang masabi kung ano but deep inside me, I know meron pa. But I can say each day is a fulfillment for me.”

With various tasks on her shoulders, Mel has learned to weigh her commitments according to their significance. She can’t avoid turning down invites or appointments “only because I have to attend to matters more important.”

Below, find out how Mel manages to get through her day-to-day activities:

“I’m not a morning person so I normally wake up at 8 or 9 a.m. then I do cardiac rehab in the morning — I exercise, do the treadmill for 45 minutes. I also have some warm-ups so all in all, it takes two hours.

“Actually, every Monday is for the foundation because we have a staff meeting — aligning of projects and assignments. It begins at 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. then I prepare for 24 Oras.

“Tuesdays are taping days for Magpakailanman. Then Wednesday is my beauty day not to pamper myself but I regard it as part of my job — to look good and presentable so I have my manicure-pedicure and hair color. By Thursday, it’s just 24 Oras and Fridays are set for appointments and taping for Powerhouse and at night, 24 Oras. I do other things during Saturdays like I attend to weddings or whatever commitment. Sunday is family day. I hear Mass with my family in the morning and I’m out for dinner with them. I go to bed at 12 midnight.”