GMA Network’s First Vice President and Head of International Operations Joseph T. Francia was honored as “Asia’s Remarkable Leader for Broadcast Media Operations” at the Asia’s Golden Icon Awards 2024: Celebrating Excellence and Impact Across Asia. The ceremony was held in Okada Manila on May 31.
In his acceptance speech, Francia underscored the network’s commitment to the Global Pinoys,
“For 19 years now, through GMA Pinoy TV, GLTV, and GNTV, we have platforms on television, online, and on the ground to inform and entertain Filipinos around the world, encourage community engagement, and advocate for the Global Pinoy among their circle of family and friends in the Philippines and around the world. We are honored that our efforts to use these platforms to positively impact society are recognized,” he says.
In his post, Francia oversees the business development, operations, marketing, programming, and multi-platform distribution across overseas markets of the Kapuso Network’s international channels GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV.
Under Francia’s leadership, GMA Pinoy TV, the Network’s international flagship channel and the home of Global Pinoys, has made significant strides in territory and platform distribution. With innovative programs now available digitally and accessible across various devices, Global Pinoys are brought closer to home while enjoying their favorite shows.
Beyond providing world-class entertainment, GMA International not only offers top-tier entertainment but also champions Global Pinoys through community engagements. They advocate for financial literacy, mental health awareness, and against anti-Asian hate.
Earlier this year, the Office of New York State Assemblymember Steven Raga declared Feb. 27 as GMA Network Day in recognition of GMA’s support for Filipino communities, especially in New York State and throughout the United States.
The Asia’s Golden Icon Awards 2024 honored distinguished personalities, including Senator Mark A. Villar for infrastructure leadership, COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Garcia for public governance, and Director-General Rowel Barba of IPO for business and law. Local luminaries like Claudine Barretto and Ara Mina were also recognized.
Internationally acclaimed awardees included H.E. Dr. Jurapas Pitaksethakarn from Thailand, Hendrik Van Der Ham from Netherlands, Erick Van Egeraat from the Netherlands, and others. The awards, organized by Dr. Ronnel P. Ybañez and Dr. Sergio Ortis-Luis, Jr., honor excellence across various sectors and celebrate the diversity of talent in Asia.
