GMA Network President and CEO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr. welcomed His Excellency Endo Kazuya, Japan’s Ambassador to the Philippines, at the GMA Network Center on July 12.
Accompanied by Director of Japan Information & Culture Center Matsuda Shigehiro, Press Officer Shigeyoshi Rintaro, and National Staff members Angela de la Rama and Dyan Lamando, Ambassador Endo was warmly received by Duavit alongside GMA Network Executive Vice President and CFO Felipe S. Yalong and Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News and GMA Regional TV and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso.
During the meeting, Duavit reflected on the network’s history of launching its international channel in Japan in April 2005, emphasizing its significance due to the substantial Filipino community in Japan. He also highlighted GMA Network’s ongoing involvement in various Filipino-centric events in Japan.
Duavit further noted the collaborative efforts between GMA Network and the Japanese government, particularly through the GMA Kapuso Foundation. He cited a notable project where the Japanese embassy granted funds to build a multi-story school building in Marawi City in 2019.
In response, Ambassador Endo expressed gratitude for the warm reception and recognized GMA Network’s pivotal role in enhancing cultural ties between Japan and the Philippines. He commended the Network as a beacon of culture and storytelling in the Philippines, remarking on its ability to bring Japanese culture closer to Filipino audiences.
Highlighting GMA Network’s contribution to cultural exchange, Ambassador Endo cited the adaptation of the iconic Japanese anime “Voltes V” as a significant example. He praised the series for resonating deeply with Filipino viewers, embodying values of hope, courage, and unity.
Following the formal discussions, Ambassador Endo toured GMA Network’s newsroom and engaged in an exclusive interview with GMA Integrated News anchor Vicky Morales. Their conversation covered recent bilateral agreements between Japan and the Philippines, joint efforts in disaster response, and opportunities for Filipinos in Japan.
Ambassador Endo’s visit to GMA Network forms part of his ongoing engagements with various institutions since assuming office, underscoring the strengthening ties between Japan and the Philippines through cultural exchange and cooperation.
