“Cruz vs. Cruz”
GMA Network’s latest Afternoon Prime drama Cruz vs. Cruz made a powerful debut, earning praises from netizens and delivering strong viewership numbers during its premiere on July 21, 2025.
The much-anticipated pilot episode captivated audiences nationwide and recorded a solid 12.1% TV Household rating with 61.3% audience share, according to data from the Nationwide Urban TV Audience Measurement (NUTAM) by research firm Nielsen Philippines. The turnout signals a promising start for the gripping GMA series, which immediately struck a chord with viewers for its compelling storyline and standout performances.
"Cruz vs. Cruz" tells the story of a family navigating love, betrayal, and redemption. It follows Manuel, who wants to marry Fely after she gets pregnant, but she does not believe in marriage due to her broken family. Determined to provide for his family, Manuel leaves for Saudi Arabia to work as a janitor, hoping to secure a better future for them.
His absence, however, leads to heartbreak when he impregnates another woman, Hazel, who forces him into marriage, leaving Fely and their children devastated. Separated from his first family for 17 years, Manuel returns to the Philippines disabled after an accident, seeking forgiveness—but his children refuse to accept him.