In a remarkable turn of events, the television industry in the Philippines witnessed an unprecedented partnership between two former rival networks, ABS-CBN and GMA Network, that began in April 2022.
This groundbreaking collaboration, initiated to broadcast select Star Cinema movies on GMA Network channels in April last year, marked a significant milestone toward unity in the Philippine entertainment industry.
This momentous partnership further gained traction in January 2023, when GMA Network and ABS-CBN officially announced a joint venture to co-produce the highly successful teleserye ‘Unbreak My Heart.’ The project, created in partnership with Viu Philippines, made its debut on May 29, 2023, as part of GMA Network’s Telebabad lineup.
The collaboration expanded beyond television as GMA Network’s top executive, Ms. Annette Gozon-Valdes, confirmed during the grand finale media conference of ‘Unbreak My Heart’ that they are exploring the possibility of joint film production with ABS-CBN’s film outfit, Star Cinema.
This ambitious undertaking was initially disrupted by the ongoing pandemic but is expected to come to fruition next year, promising to be a historic event in the local entertainment industry.
One of the exciting possibilities in the works is the pairing of Kapuso Primetime Princess Barbie Forteza with a Kapamilya actor, a venture expected to generate significant interest among fans. Although specific details are still under discussion, this collaboration holds the promise of blending the best of both networks, offering viewers a unique entertainment experience.
Ms. Gozon-Valdes expressed her gratitude to ABS-CBN for past collaborations, citing the success of the series ‘Unbreak My Heart.’ This series, filmed in stunning locations in Switzerland, Italy, and the Philippines, told a compelling story of forbidden love that led to the characters, portrayed by Jodi Sta. Maria, Richard Yap, Gabbi Garcia, and Joshua Garcia, experiencing profound pain and grief.
If this collaborative film production comes to fruition, it will mark the first co-production of a movie between GMA Pictures and Star Cinema, setting an unprecedented milestone in the Philippine entertainment industry.
Fans and industry insiders eagerly await further details about this historic partnership and the exciting projects that lie ahead.
