In the recent virtual press launch for WeTV, Aga Muhlach expressed his disapproval of network war and the concept of stars’ exclusivity.
“The industry is just small. Obviously, for years, there is divisiveness in the field. I hope that the situation will improve where stars can now be seen on any TV station,” the former matinee idol starts.
“Right now, if you’re from ABS-CBN then, you should only be seen on ABS. Or if you’re from GMA, your exposure should be solely there. I think it’s good to see stars from various stations work together,” he carries on.
As an actor, Aga believes that it’s beneficial to work with other talents whom you haven’t got the chance to collaborate with in the past.
“For one, it would be something fresh for the viewers. In the process, we get to come up with better material,” he relates.
Looking back, the award-winning actor admitted that he became a witness to such division.
“I was an exclusive star of ABS and did the sitcom Oki Doki Doc, which ran for many years. I’ve been with the Kapamilya for a long time. That’s where I realized that the division is real. Entering the ‘biz in the ‘80s, I used to experience doing shows for various networks like GMA, ABS, and even IBC 13. Then, when it comes to movies, you can have projects for Regal, Viva, and Star Cinema all at the same time,” he says.
“But then slowly, you’d realize the landscape is changing. There is stiff competition even within your circle. There was a time in ABS when even our shows were competing ratings-wise. People from the same network treat each other as competition. Then, there’s the network war which prohibits stars from appearing in rival camps. I was really bothered by the competition,” he adds.
Nonetheless, Aga is glad that there are streaming platforms these days like WeTV that allow artists and creative people from all networks to work together.
“It’s simply a positive development. In fact, I’m pleased that in this media launch, there’s a mixture of stars who are present. Like Iza (Calzado), Karylle, Bela (Padilla), and Xia (Vigor) are with ABS. Meanwhile, Sunshine (Dizon) and Direk Mark (Reyes) come from GMA. As for myself, I don’t have any exclusive contract with any station though I’m seen in TV 5’s ‘Masked Singer Pilipinas.’ By the way, I’m proud that my 2019 MMFF entry Miracle in Cell No. 7 served as the opening movie of WeTV’s launch.”
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In a recent virtual press conference, Matteo Guidicelli said that despite the scare brought about by COVID-19, he and his wife Sarah Geronimo remain thankful.
“Many would think that we didn’t get to enjoy our honeymoon stage because of the pandemic,” he states. “But you know, what we’re going through right now we consider a blessing. I’m so grateful to have found a wife like Sarah.”
Didn’t they miss traveling?
“Well, that’s one thing which made us sad at first. But come to think of it, despite all the challenges brought by the pandemic, Sarah and I realized that we’re very blessed. We realized that we have each other and that we’re okay, healthy, and have food to eat. There will come a time for traveling but as of now, we’re grateful for what we have.”
How about church wedding?
“We would like it very much but at the right time. That’s why I’m hopeful that the vaccine will be available the soonest time possible.”
Many are asking as to their baby plans.
