GMA Network was recognized with two awards at the Global Filipino Icon Awards 2026 in Dubai: 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, received the storytelling award for promoting Filipino talent and narratives on the global stage. Joseph T. Francia, GMA Network first vice president and head of international operations, accepted the award on behalf of the company.
In his speech, Francia talked about GMA International’s mission to connect with Filipino communities worldwide.
“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.”
He added, “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.”
Araullo received the Lifetime Achievement in Public Service Journalism Award for his work as anchor of the late-night newscast State of the Nation and host of the public affairs programs The Atom Araullo Specials and I-Witness. The award recognized his years of field reporting and documentary work that highlighted social, humanitarian, and environmental issues.
“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,” Araullo said. “To young storytellers: 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.”
GMA Pinoy TV’s Excellence
in Global Filipino Storytelling award at the Global Filipino
Icon Awards 2026 in Dubai
Maryam Delim Aljawi, publisher and CEO of The Global Filipino Magazine, said the awards were created to honor contributions that celebrate Filipino excellence worldwide. “Filipino stories matter—wherever we are in the world. Our deepest gratitude to GMA Pinoy TV and Atom Araullo for their presence and support,” she said.
The Global Filipino Icon Awards honors individuals, organizations, and companies for their leadership and influence in promoting Filipino achievement globally. The ceremony was held Jan. 31, in Dubai.
