GMA Network has its own day in the Great State of New York

For invaluable contributions to the Filipino community in New York State and throughout the United States, February 27 was declared GMA Network Day in the Great State of New York. The proclamation was bestowed by the Office of New York State Assemblymember Steven Raga.

Recognizing GMA International’s significant role in advancing Filipino interests and culture within American society, Assemblymember Raga said, “As we prepare to celebrate these achievements in the upcoming New York State Assembly legislative session, it is a reminder of the powerful role media plays in connecting and uplifting our community, no matter where we are in the world. This honoring is a testament to the positive influence of GMA Pinoy TV on Filipinos everywhere.”

Assemblymember Raga, in turn, acknowledged Joseph T. Francia, GMA First Vice President and Head of International Operations' strong commitment to Global Pinoys, “I am deeply honored to recognize Mr. Joseph Francia for his remarkable contributions through GMA Pinoy TV, which has significantly impacted the global Filipino community. His visionary leadership and commitment to showcasing the richness of our culture and the talent of Filipinos worldwide deserve our utmost respect and admiration. It's a privilege to be part of this historic moment and to honor someone who has so profoundly shaped the narrative of the Filipino diaspora.”

Francia warmly welcomed the proclamations as these reinforce the long-standing mission of GMA International to champion Global Pinoys and to celebrate their achievements around the world. These came at an opportune time, especially in the United States, where GMA International remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting Filipino representation and inclusivity while fostering an empowered community in American mainstream society.

“We, at GMA Network, are grateful for these recognitions by the New York State Assembly through the diligent efforts of Assemblymember Steven Raga,” said Francia. “We also thank our carriers and distributors who partner with us to give us platforms that allow us to be part of the daily lives of our subscribers and viewers. Through GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV, we have platforms on-air, online, and on-the-ground, to encourage community engagement, inform and entertain the Filipino diaspora and their circle of family and friends, and advocate for even greater representation for the Global Pinoy. We share these with the Filipino-American community, especially the vibrant Filipino community in Albany that gave us a warm welcome on this cold winter day."

Joining Mr. Francia in receiving the proclamations were Arman David (President, Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc), Nora Galleros (Executive Director, Immediate Past President, PIDCI), Joyce Andres David (Vice President, PIDCI), Robert Dumaual (New York-based Community Advocate), and Mary Ann Kapunan (Leader, FilCom Albany).

“GMA has been a part of the Filipinos for ages with the incredible amount of work, energy, and resources that they have poured-over for the promotion of the Filipino Cause,” said Sol Jasper Kapunan, Founding President of Kalayaan 1521 Council Inc (a New York Non-profit Corporation). “On a similar note, the work of Mr. Joseph Francia in leading this organization through the years is nothing but outstanding, keeping the Filipinos well-informed, well-connected, and most of all grounded to the realities happening in our motherland, as well as the different activities, initiatives, innovations, and effort of the different Filipino Communities around the globe.”