GMA Network has a rich heritage of children’s programming that began with Uncle Bob Stewart’s “Lucky 7 Club” to the acclaimed “Worry-Free Kid TV,” a line-up of shows lauded by UNICEF for its educational and wholesome content. This enduring commitment to molding young minds has consistently earned accolades at the Anak TV Seal Awards, where in 2024 alone, we garnered 37 awards for our Kapuso programs and homegrown talents.
At the heart of Anak TV — the organization that bestows these awards and spearheads an extensive media literacy program — is our dynamic president, Elvira Yap Go, who celebrated her birthday this month. Working closely with Tita Elvira on the Anak TV board, I have had the unique privilege of witnessing firsthand how she works with deep reverence, always reminding us that media is a powerful vessel for reflecting values and lighting the way forward. Together with colleagues and creative minds from various networks, we discuss programs and projects that captivate, educate, and empower our youngest viewers.
EYG, as she is referred to by colleagues, has skillfully guided Anak TV into the digital age, embracing new media platforms to ensure our content remains relevant in this fast-paced, ever-evolving industry. Her visionary leadership does not stop at our shores; it extends globally, setting standards for children’s media advocacies worldwide.
One of her significant achievements is the founding of the Southeast Asia Video Festival for Children (SEAVFC), which has become a vital platform for regional collaboration and cultural exchange. As a delegate and member of the organizing committee of the past SEAVFC festivals, I also witnessed Tita Elvira’s relentless commitment. Her energy and her passion for media advocacy are contagious and inspiring. She is truly the light that unites people, groups and even countries to guide the generations to come.
Her innovative spirit has birthed numerous initiatives, like the award-winning TV program, “Tropang Potchi,” on GMA 7 and the establishment of the National Catholic Family Bible Quiz, merging media with faith and community service in seamless harmony. She also founded Ristorante delle Mitre — a Catholic-themed restaurant in Intramuros that dedicates part of its proceeds to assisting the less fortunate, further illustrating her commitment to community upliftment.
A devout Catholic lay leader, Tita Elvira is a Year 2000 Papal Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice awardee, and was one of 25 women chosen to attend the Synod on the Word of God in Rome. She is currently one of 15 ambassadors of Fondazione Gravissimum Educationis, only one from Asia, at the Vatican City which promotes education, supports innovative projects and fosters cooperation and collaboration among educational institutions worldwide.
She hosts the internationally-acclaimed program “Power to Unite” that nurtures the gift of faith while inspiring hope and encouragement for a better future. Each year, her birthday Mass is concelebrated by bishops and priests from across the country, reflecting her valued role within the church.
As another year unfolds, we wish Tita Elvira all the love and grace she has so generously given. Here’s to more years of leading, uniting and reminding us that media, when guided by divine purpose, can truly change lives.