This Christmas, GMA Network recognizes the heart of the Filipino through a series of true-to-life inspiring stories. Tagged, âIsang Pagkilala sa Puso ng Pilipino Ngayong Pasko," the stories tell the real-life tales of Filipinos who, by sharing what they can, have made a difference in the lives of many. âWhen we came across these stories, we immediately knew that we had to share them with our audience," said Regie Bautista, Vice-President, GMA Program Support Department. âThis Christmas campaign reaffirms what Filipinos should always be proud of â the inherent goodness of their hearts." Starring in the vignettes are three of GMAâs biggest and most renowned Kapuso stars: Dingdong Dantes, Marian Rivera and Richard Gutierrez. Richard plays Ed, a US immigrant based in Las Vegas, Nevada, whose heart remains very Filipino. With his wife, he personally packs balikbayan boxes with toys and school supplies and ships these at Christmas time to children in different provinces. Marian portrays Mila, a woman who literally opens her home to the less fortunate. Mila welcomes the Season of Advent by selling Christmas decors in her garage. She uses the money she earns to prepare food and feed more than 200 families on New Yearâs Eve.
Meanwhile, Dingdong is cast as Jose, a modern day Christmas angel. Jose spends Christmas Eve going to different hospitals in Metro Manila, paying the bills of indigent patients unable to afford treatment. When the surprised families of these patients ask to thank him in person, they are told by hospital staffers that Jose has already left. âThese are real-life Santas," explained Director Paul Ticzon, when asked what he found special about this project after having directed many of the Networkâs Christmas campaigns. âThese are people who go out of their way to create a meaningful Christmas for others. Their stories will hit you in the heart." GMAâs Christmas vignettes can be seen for the first time on 24 Oras, this Monday, October 25. Shot in high-definition (HD) digital video technology, the plugs are also slated to roll in SM Cinemas. The GMA project team is composed of multi-awarded cinematographer Ding Achacoso (Director of Photography), Paul Ticzon (Director), Vince Gealogo (Co-Director), Ingrid Navarro (Producer) and cameramen Hanniel Aguilar, Javier Delgado and Paul Arrojado. The whole campaign was spearheaded by the creative team of GMA's Program Support Department composed of Regie Bautista (Vice President), Armie Herrera (Associate Creative Director), Caca Ko, Weng Espiritu (Writers), Chris Roxas, Calvin Anchores, Donn Dacalanio (Artists), Hasmin Marable (Senior Project Manager), and Minette Lopez (Project Manager). Catch GMA's 2010 Christmas plug series as it premieres on national TV this Monday, October 25 on 24 Oras. â
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