GMA, ABS–CBN sign historic partnership deal

MANILA, Philippines — GMA Network Inc. and ABS-CBN Corp. have entered into a historic deal that opens up the possibility of  future partnerships and cooperation between the two rival networks.

GMA and ABS-CBN on Tuesday signed a contract to license some of Star Cinema’s most popular and well-loved movies to air in GMA.

GMA Network president and chief operating officer Gilberto Duavit Jr. said the partnership is mutually beneficial for both companies, and paves the way for possible future collaborations.

“To us, we are very pleased because the significance of our partnership today ushers in the possibility of a far broader set of conversations, potential partnerships and cooperation that will benefit not only mutually GMA and ABS-CBN, but as importantly if not perhaps  more importantly, to the benefit of the public we both serve – the Filipino viewer,” Duavit said.

“Looking forward, since we have as they say, broken the ice, there is great optimism that these conversations will start and continue, and we look forward to the possibility of this type of an opportunity again moving forward,” he said.

According to GMA, the deal is seen to further solidify its place as a one-stop shop for major film studios, including Regal Entertainment Inc., Viva Films, OctoArts Films, and now, Star Cinema.

ABS-CBN president and chief executive officer Carlo Katigbak hopes to bring Star Cinema movies to more viewers through the partnership with GMA.  “Every storyteller’s dream is to have as many people as possible experience their creations. Now, because of the kindness of our friends at GMA, we have the special opportunity to bring our Kapamilya stories to a new audience,” he said.

ABS-CBN Film Productions Inc. or Star Cinema is a Filipino film production and distribution outfit founded in 1993.

The company has produced over 200 films in various genres, all of which are geared to suit the preferences of Filipinos of all ages and walks of life wherever they may be in the world.