GMA News anchor Emil Sumangil took to Instagram on Friday, July 18, to share a heartfelt prayer, asking for protection from the dangers and temptations that come with his profession.
Posting a photo of a rosary, Sumangil wrote, “Iligtas mo ako sa banta’t peligrong dala ng aking trabaho, higit sa lahat sa tukso’t kasalanang lumalason sa aking puso’t isipan, Mahal na Panginoon.” He added a simple weekend greeting to followers: “Blessed weekend, friends. Wet weekend tayo.”
The prayer comes amid heightened public concern for Sumangil’s safety following his explosive investigative report on the mysterious disappearance of 34 sabungeros. The report included an exclusive interview with whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, who named influential personalities such as gaming tycoon Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto as being involved in the case — both of whom have since denied the allegations.
Sumangil previously assured the public that he is safe and well, stating that his brief absence from several news programs was simply due to a vacation.
“Nasa ligtas po akong kalagayan sa awa at kalooban ng Diyos Ama. Gagawin ko po ang nararapat para sa ating kababayan, alinsunod sa utos ng mahal na Diyos Ama,” he said in a video posted by GMA Public Affairs.
His wife, Michelle Sumangil, also called for prayers on social media, saying, “With all humility, I ask for your prayers for my husband, Emil Sumangil… Emil is simply doing what he was called to do — to seek truth, to serve the people, and to give voice to the unheard.”
Sumangil currently anchors GMA Network’s flagship evening newscast ’24 Oras’ and the public affairs program ‘Resibo’.
