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.”
As GMA Network’s First Vice President and Head of International Operations, 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 is also dedicated to further championing Global Pinoys through various community engagements and programs. Its advocacies include financial and digital literacy, mental health awareness, and efforts to combat anti-Asian hate.
Earlier this year, the Office of New York State Assemblymember Steven Raga proclaimed February 27 as GMA Network Day in the Great State of New York in recognition of the invaluable contributions and support that GMA provides to Filipino communities especially in New York State and throughout the United States.
Other distinguished personalities honored at the Asia’s Golden Icon Awards 2024 include Senator Mark A. Villar as “Asia’s Visionary Leader in Philippine Infrastructure;” COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Garcia as “Iconic Leader in Public Governance;” Director-General Rowel Barba of IPO as “Distinguished Icon in Business and Law;” Secretary Teodoro Herbosa as “Asia’s Most Influential Leader for Public Health in the National Government Agency; Claudine Barretto as “Asia’s Multi-Awarded Actress;” Ara Mina as “Asia’s Most Accomplished Actress;” Sheryn Regis as “Asia’s Exceptional Singer for Outstanding Industry;” Deo “Diwata” Balbuena as “Social Media Influencer of the Year;” and Kapuso actor Kelvin Miranda as “Asia’s Rising Multi-Talented Entertainer.”
In addition to the impressive list of local luminaries, the event also welcomed several internationally acclaimed awardees, including H.E. Dr. Jurapas Pitaksethakarn from Thailand, Founder of the International Diplomatic Cooperative Organization (IDCO), Mr. Hendrik Van Der Ham from Netherlands, Founder and Head of Operations of Bridges2000, Mr. Erick Van Egeraat, a Dutch architect and author, Keiko Kuniyoshi and Keiichi Tada from Japan, H.H Sheikh Ali Rashed Ali Saeed Al Maktoum from United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.), Samuel Lee from Singapore, Founder and CEO of Gfk Conseils-Juridis , Romain Gerardin-Fresse from France, WFG Founder and Chairman Agnes Miranda from Canada, and other prominent international awardees.
Asia’s Golden Icon Awards were organized by founder and chairperson Dr. Ronnel P. Ybañez, who recently obtained a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Urban Planning with a Major in Leadership and Management from CCOL London UK Graduate School of Professionals, and Dr. Sergio Ortis-Luis, Jr., President, Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP). It honors the excellence and contributions of individuals to their respective industries and communities, and brings together a diverse group of people from various sectors, including the arts, businesses, and philanthropy, and is a celebration of the rich tapestry of talent within the Asian region.
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