GMA PUBLIC AFFAIRS GOES BIG IN THE NEW YEAR: A hero returns to primetime and forces align for Eleksyon 2025

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GMA Public Affairs unveils its biggest offerings yet in time for GMA’s 75^th year.

As we turn over a new page in 2025 – and as another big moment looms in the coming elections – GMA Public Affairs shares the nation’s hope in everyday heroes, in telling the important stories, and in the power of ordinary people to change things for the better.

Primetime Series

2022’s “Most Watched Television Series” makes its big comeback on January 20. Primetime Action Hero Ruru Madrid returns as Lolong in the show’s much-awaited new season “Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan.” Lolong dreams of a world where everyone is equal, regardless of their differences. But just as the people’s hero begins to live in peace with his fellow Atubaw, tragedy strikes on his wedding day. To save his beloved Elsie (Shaira Diaz) and his people, Lolong must embark on a perilous quest to recover the legendary Ubtao, a gem with miraculous powers.

Top-rating teen queen Jillian Ward stars in her first primetime rom-com as an unassuming Ilongga suddenly thrust into the spotlight as the doppelganger of a missing celebrity. This fun and light-hearted comedy set in beautiful Iloilo is a must-watch with your palangga. Not just one, but two Jillians? We’re seated. “My Ilonggo Girl” premieres on January 13.

Gen Z series “MAKA” starring Zephanie and Romnick Sarmenta returns for Season 2. This time, the talented kids of MAKA High move to a private school where they meet a new set of characters that provide complexity to their story. Their coming-of-age journey of navigating teenage love and family continues this January.

Also coming to primetime: an international co-production that dares to go beyond skin-deep. “Beauty Empire” is a series that explores the skin and beauty industry headed by powerful female moguls.

Public Service

With Eleksyon 2025 right around the corner, GMA Public Affairs and GMA Integrated News join forces in “Tanong ng Bayan: The Senatorial Face Off” coming in January. Hosted and moderated by Jessica Soho, the country’s most trusted broadcast journalist, this special will uncover the candidates’ views and positions on today’s most pressing issues.

Perhaps no other name in Philippine television is as revered as Jessica Soho who celebrates 40 years in journalism next year. To mark this milestone, Public Affairs launches an online archive of Soho’s most iconic stories – from her mission to the Spratlys, her exposé on the underground organ trade, and her interviews with past presidents. A special featuring the highlights of Jessica Soho’s career – including little-known stories from her early years – hits television and digital platforms this February.

In “Philippine Defenders,” Matteo Guidicelli pays tribute to the brave men and women who protect our sovereignty. Matt, a Philippine Army reservist, joins our unsung heroes in missions to defend our land, seas, and skies. Philippine Defenders airs March 2025.

Cinema

Fresh from its MMFF entry “Green Bones,” GMA Public Affairs is set to release two new films for GMA Pictures in the first half of 2025. This time, the category is horror: “KMJS’ Gabi ng Lagim” makes its big screen debut, and “P77” starring Barbie Forteza and Euwenn Mikaell arrives in theatres in the summer of 2025. Gabi ng Lagim takes inspiration from chilling real-life accounts to craft three unforgettable tales of horror and redemption. And P77, set in a luxurious yet otherworldly penthouse, discusses the realities of urban housing while promising a mind-bending cinematic experience.

In keeping with the spirit of “Lost Sabungeros” in 2024, a new film brings focus towards justice in the animated feature “58th”. The film examines the Maguindanao Massacre fifteen years on and sheds light on the story of Reynaldo Momay, the 58^th victim whose body was never found.

2025 is the year of bringing big stories to the screen. Catch these Tatak GMA Public Affairs titles starting January.

For the latest updates, tune in to GMA Network’s on-air platforms GMA and GTV, its official website www.GMANetwork.com, or via its official social media accounts.