GMA and ABS-CBN End Rivalry, Enter Significant Partnership

A historic partnership deal has been signed between rival networks GMA Network Inc. and ABS-CBN Corp., which will allow the former to air some of the movies of Star Cinema — a media company under ABS-CBN — on its channel. The move is set to open up future cooperation between the two firms, as well as cement GMA’s position as a one-stop shop for major film studios.

“To us, we are very pleased because the significance of our partnership today ushers in the possibility of a far broader set of conversations, potential partnerships, and cooperation that will benefit not only mutually GMA and ABS-CBN, but as importantly if not perhaps more importantly, to the benefit of the public we both serve – the Filipino viewer,” explained GMA Network president and chief operating officer Gilberto Duavit Jr.

“Looking forward, since we have, as they say, broken the ice, there is great optimism that these conversations will start and continue, and we look forward to the possibility of this type of an opportunity again moving forward,” he added. Jose Mari R. Abacan, GMA First Vice President for Program Management Department, expressed similar sentiments regarding the move, stating “I am happy that, after having a lot of relationships with other majors, we are now adding a group that I have always looked up to from the start. Thank you, Star Cinema at ABS-CBN.”

ABS-CBN president and chief executive officer Carlo Katigbak also welcomed the partnership. “Every storyteller’s dream is to have as many people as possible experience their creations,” he affirmed. “Now, because of the kindness of our friends at GMA, we have the special opportunity to bring our Kapamilya stories to a new audience.”

“We hope the Kapusos find joy and inspiration in viewing our Star Cinema movies and we also look forward to a new era of friendship and cooperation within our small industry. Thank you, (GMA) Chairman Gozon…and all our other friends at GMA who have made this partnership happen.”

Source: PhilStar, Manila Bulletin