In 2025, GMA Network celebrates its 75th anniversary, tracing a remarkable evolution from its roots as DZBB radio in 1950 to becoming the country’s preeminent media powerhouse.
This historic milestone was highlighted by Beyond 75: The GMA Network 75th Anniversary Special, a star-studded tribute held on June 29, 2025, underscoring the network’s enduring pledge to deliver bold, trusted, and audience-first storytelling. From pioneering “telefantasya” to leading the digital shift, GMA’s transformation reflects an institution that has consistently adapted to—and anticipated—the changing rhythm of Filipino media consumption.
Established by American entrepreneur Robert “Uncle Bob” Stewart, the network made its television debut with DZBB Channel 7 in 1961. In 1974, it was rebranded as the Republic Broadcasting System under the stewardship of Gilberto Duavit Sr., Menardo Jimenez, and Felipe L. Gozon. The Kapuso identity, officially launched in 2002, became a defining symbol of its mission “to be one in heart with every Filipino.” Today, under the leadership of Chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe L. Gozon and President and COO Gilberto Duavit Jr., GMA commands a dominant share of traditional and digital viewership—reaching a record-breaking 93% in January 2025, more than twice its market share in 2020 following the shutdown of rival ABS-CBN.
GMA’s ascent to leadership, especially in the post-ABS-CBN era, showcases the power of strategic programming and cultural acuity. The network amplified its primetime dominance through “telefantasya,” headlined by hits like Mulawin (2004) and Darna (2005), which peaked at ratings of 52.1%. These genre-defining series reimagined Filipino folklore through modern lenses, catapulting GMA to Mega Manila supremacy. Its early adoption of Asianovelas, such as Stairway to Heaven and Jewel in the Palace, broadened its audience base and edged out rivals in audience share.
Equally crucial to GMA’s success has been its investment in news and public affairs. Flagship newscast 24 Oras and long-running magazine show Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho consistently dominate ratings, with the former landing second in national rankings in 2023. Reality and infotainment also played a key role: Extra Challenge and Running Man Philippines—the latter co-produced with SBS Korea—reshaped viewer preferences. Public affairs staples like Imbestigador maintained top-of-mind awareness, while regional expansion through stations like GMA Ilocos Norte and GMA Palawan extended the network’s reach. The 2024 Digital News Report further validated GMA’s status as the country’s most trusted broadcast news brand.
Creative innovation continues to define GMA’s slate. The all-Filipino live-action adaptation Voltes V: Legacy (2023) topped viewership charts and enjoyed a theatrical run across more than 70 SM cinemas. Lolong (2022) seized the nationwide #1 spot, while Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre (2025) reaffirmed the enduring appetite for epic fantasy. Alongside shows like Maria Clara at Ibarra and Black Rider, these offerings reflect GMA’s distinct blend of heritage storytelling and contemporary flair.
Financially, GMA remains a formidable force. The network posted consolidated revenues exceeding ₱20 billion in both 2022 and 2023, maintaining strength despite global advertising pullbacks. Since its public listing in 2007, it has distributed ₱45.99 billion in dividends—averaging 96% of net income annually. Its digital push has been equally strategic: platforms like Kapuso Stream, as well as tie-ups with Netflix and Viu, powered a 72% year-on-year increase in digital ad revenue and 45.2 billion video views in 2023 across YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok—outpacing ABS-CBN’s 34.3 billion the following year.
Yet GMA’s future hinges on navigating the platform wars. With Gen Z and millennial audiences shifting toward on-demand content, the Kapuso Network’s streaming arm, Kapuso Stream—launched in 2023—competes with ABS-CBN’s Kapamilya Online Live and TV5’s Kapatid Livestream. However, limitations on acquired programming due to copyright constraints necessitate deeper innovation to stay agile in an OTT-first era.
Perhaps the most unexpected development has been GMA’s collaboration with its longtime rival ABS-CBN. Since 2022, they’ve co-produced Unbreak My Heart with Viu and Dreamscape, aired Star Cinema titles on GMA, and simulcasted *It’s Showtime!* on GTV. Internationally, GMA Pinoy TV partnered with iWantTFC to expand global content access. These strategic alliances point to a media ecosystem where competition gives way to co-creation—a pragmatic step forward in a fragmented market. As it enters its diamond era, GMA adopts a new slogan, “Isa sa Puso ng Pilipino” (“One with the Heart of the Filipino”)—a fitting encapsulation of its cultural role.
With a legacy rooted in pioneering content and a future driven by digital innovation and unlikely partnerships, the Kapuso Network continues to shape—and reflect—the evolving soul of Philippine media.
