GMA Integrated News’ late-night newscast Saksi has reached its 30th year on Philippine television, cementing its place as the longest-running news program of the network.
The program aired its pilot episode on Oct. 2, 1995, with the late Mike Enriquez as one of its first anchors. Initially a primetime newscast, it moved to its late-night slot in 2002. Over three decades, it has been helmed by some of the country’s most prominent broadcast journalists, including Mel Tiangco (1996-1999), Vicky Morales (1999-2014), and Arnold Clavio (2004-2024). Pia Arcangel, who joined as anchor in 2014, continues to lead the newscast today.
The program has earned significant recognition both locally and abroad. It became the first Philippine news program to win at the Asian TV Awards in 2000 and the New York Festivals in 2003. It also received multiple honors from the Catholic Mass Media Awards, including Best News Program in 2001, 2010, 2021 and 2022, the 12th PMPC Star Awards in 1998, the US International Film and Video Festival Silver Screen Award for its Typhoon Ompong coverage in 2019, and a Philippine Quill Award in 2024.
GMA Network chairman Felipe L. Gozon hailed Saksi as a program that has stood as “a witness to history and a steadfast source of reliable journalism for Filipinos.” President and CEO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr. praised the show for embodying the network’s values of integrity, service, and commitment to truth.
“For three decades, Saksi has been more than a nightly newscast. It has been a trusted companion to millions of Filipinos—witnessing pivotal moments in our nation’s history and giving voice to the stories of our people,” Duavit said.
Oliver Victor B. Amoroso, senior vice president and head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy, said the program’s staying power reflects the dedication of its journalists and the loyalty of its audience. He reaffirmed the network’s mission of “mas malaking misyon, mas malawak na paglilingkod sa bayan” through the show.
Arcangel said the role of a late-night newscast has changed in the digital age, shifting from providing recaps to offering in-depth analysis and context. “Viewers already know what happened during the day, so what they need at night is a clearer understanding of the news,” she said.
Anchoring Saksi has also shaped Arcangel’s career. She recalled covering events such as the Feast of the Black Nazarene, the wake of a former president, and international news assignments. “Coming into the newscast, the bar had been set very high. I knew that meant working hard to maintain the same levels of integrity and truthfulness,” she said.
In addition to hard news, Saksi has adjusted to shifting audience interests with segments including Barangay Saksi, Sakcess, Saksi Foodie, Tara Game, Showbiz Saksi, and Biyaheng Saksi.
