PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL EXPLORES PUBLIC DIPLOMACY COOPERATION WITH GMA NETWORK'S FIRST VICE PRESIDENT JOSEPH JEROME FRANCIA

Left to Right: Mr. Joseph Jerome T. Francia, First Vice President, Head of International Operations, GMA Network, Inc., and Philippine Consulate General Senen T. Mangalile pose for a photo after their productive meeting at the Philippine Center. (Photo by Maria Annette F. Aquino-Herrera)

Consul General Senen T. Mangalile met with Mr. Joseph Jerome T. Francia, First Vice President and Head of International Operations at GMA Network, Inc., at the Philippine Center on 01 March 2024 to explore potential avenues for cooperation in public diplomacy between the Consulate and GMA Network, Inc.


Consul General Mangalile highlighted the pivotal role of the Filipino American media in shaping public perceptions and fostering a sense of a community among the Filipino Americans in the US Northeast. He emphasized that by collaborating with GMA Network, Inc., the Consulate General aims to harness GMA’s extensive expertise and wide reach. This partnership is intended to significantly enhance the visibility and impact of the 2024 Very Important Pinoy (VIP) Tour, which is being organized by the Consulate this year, reaching a broader audience and enriching the global appreciation of the Philippines’ rich cultural and heritage offerings.

Left to Right: Vice Consul Cathe Ryne Denice S. Aguilar, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile and GMA Network Inc. First Vice President Joseph Jerome T. Francia discuss possible public diplomacy cooperation initiatives. (Photo by Maria Annette F. Aquino-Herrera)

Mr. Francia, expressing his enthusiasm for the collaboration, underscored GMA Network Inc.’s commitment to crafting and disseminating positive narratives that contribute to a deeper understanding of the Philippines and Filipinos. He indicated that the network is keen to support initiatives through the organization of promotional events, exclusive coverage, and creation of collaborative content.


The meeting concluded with both sides expressing eagerness for future collaborations. This partnership marks a significant step towards strengthening the ties between the Consulate General and key media stakeholders, such as GMA Network and GMA Pinoy TV, in promoting the Philippines to the global stage. END