GMA Network, the country’s leading media company, was recognized with two awards at the Global Filipino Icon Awards 2026 in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates: Excellence in Global Filipino Storytelling for GMA Pinoy TV and Lifetime Achievement in Public Service Journalism for broadcast journalist Atom Araullo.
GMA Pinoy TV, the flagship international channel of GMA International — the overseas arm of GMA Network — won the Excellence in Global Filipino Storytelling Award for its commitment to Filipino storytelling while also serving as a platform to elevate the talent and voices of Filipinos on the global stage.
Accepting the award was GMA Network First Vice President and Head of International Operations Joseph T. Francia.
In his speech, Francia spoke of the enduring mission of GMA International in advocating for Filipino global communities beyond providing entertainment and information through its international channels GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News.
“There are more than 11 million Filipinos living across the world—and with them, 11 million stories waiting to be told,” he said. “Stories of courage and sacrifice, of hope and aspiration– stories that are sometimes victorious, sometimes unfinished—but always deeply human. At the heart of these stories is one shared longing: the longing to belong, to be seen, to be understood and to feel connected—no matter how far from home we may be.”
“We don’t just broadcast programs. We build bridges—strengthening bonds across oceans, generations, and cultures. We tell stories that remind Filipinos everywhere: you matter, you belong, and your story counts.”
Broadcast journalist Atom Araullo, meanwhile, was conferred the Lifetime Achievement in Public Service Journalism Award, in recognition of his years of rigorous field reporting and in-depth documentary work, through which he consistently brought social, humanitarian, and environmental issues to public attention. Araullo anchors the late-night newscast “State of the Nation” and hosts the public affairs shows “The Atom Araullo Specials” and “I-Witness.”
Addressing the audience, Araullo spoke of the power and impact of journalism and the importance of aspiring young storytellers to keep using their voice:
“Journalism is never about the person holding the microphone or holding the camera. It is about the people whose stories are often ignored, dismissed, or sometimes deliberately silenced,” he said.
“Lalo na sa mga kabataan na gustong magkuwento, ang message ko lang sa inyo: Your voice matters. Your work matters. And in a time marked by chaos and uncertainty, choosing accuracy, patience, and empathy is already an act of public service.”
In celebration of the occasion, Maryam Delim Aljawi, Publisher and CEO of The Global Filipino Magazine said, “When we started this platform, we had a simple goal: to tell Filipino stories that deserve to be seen, heard and remembered. The Global Filipino Icon Awards is a reflection of that vision — Filipinos coming together from around the world to celebrate excellence, impact and purpose. At the heart of this event is one belief: Filipino stories matter — wherever we are in the world. Our deepest gratitude to GMA Pinoy TV and Atom Araullo for their presence and support.”
The Global Filipino Icon Awards 2026 honors individuals, organizations, and companies for their contributions, leadership, and influence in supporting and promoting Filipino excellence across the globe. The awards are presented by The Global Filipino magazine, which is based in Dubai. The awarding ceremony took place on January 31, 2026. For more news and updates, visit www.GMANetwork.com.
