Based on "El Presidente: The Story of Emilio Aguinaldo and the First Philippine Republic" courtesy of Scenema Concept International, CMB Films, and Viva Films, in cooperation with the San Miguel Corporation, Petron, Boy Scouts of the Philippines, Las Casas Filipinas de Azucar, and the Film Development Council of the Philippines, Aishite Imasu 1941: Mahal Kita courtesy of Regal Entertainment Inc. and BASFILM Production, Inc., Sa'yo Lamang (a 2003-2004 Mini-Series) Story of Mayor Lito Atienza and his Wife Beng Atienza directed by Joel Lamangan and Dekada '70 courtesy of ABS-CBN Studios and STAR Cinema.
Narrated by Dennis Antenor, Jr. (formerly Dennis Guisado of YES! FM 101.1) and Jupiter Torres, a documentary film about the project in the life of the Philippines in the past 127 years.
After breaking free from the clutches of Spain on June 12, 1898, the country survived two more foreign invasions, a 20-year Marcos tyranny, and all the natural and man-made disasters that came in between and after.
Virtually all the nations of the world are heaping praise on the Philippines.
The tributes and accolades include wishes for progress and maturity as the country strives to overcome the regional economic crunch in its march toward the next millennium.
Aguinaldo read the country's declaration of independence from Spain at the main window of his Kawit mansion and waved the Philippine flag for the first time as the national anthem, composed by Julian Felipe, was played for the first time.
The declaration of independence came after a series of decisive victories by the Katipuneros, who routed some 250 Spaniards in the battles of Alapan, where the patriots prevented the hamletting of an entire town, and Binakayan, where they overran a Spanish arsenal.
That the victories came as tropical thunderstorms pounded Luzon in May and June of 1898 seems ironic in a time of scorching El Niño, eased only by occasional rains.
On December 9, 1985, the first issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer rolled off the press with its banner story— “It’s Cory-Doy”. It didn’t even have a slogan, and so atop its masthead was a kicker: ‘A slogan? Help us write one and win a prize.’ The maiden issue, all 30,000 copies, sold out at P2 each.
“The job of a newspaper is to report the news. That, in a word, is what the Philippine Daily Inquirer is all about,” said the paper in its first editorial ‘A Statement of Purpose, Separating News from Views,’ written by its first publisher, the late Max Soliven.
Noting that they lived in very interesting times, the editorial said the PDI will “chronicle these times with candor, and we trust, with courage.”
It was one of three alternative dailies that bannered the flight of the Marcoses at the height of the 1986 Edsa People Power Revolution.
The first Inquirer issues looked like an unmade bed, recalled managing editor Jose Ma. Nolasco. ‘We didn’t have money, we didn’t have a printing press. We had stories on page one. [Those issues] will never win any design competition,” he said.
“When we established the Inquirer, we didn’t think that one day it would be No. 1. Never did it cross our minds,” Nolasco said in a recent strategic planning session.
Chronicling the mounting public opposition to the Marcos regime, PDI’s circulation grew from just 30,000 to more than 250,000 by the time the snap election was held in February 1986.
Twenty-three-year-old Stephen Salcedo was pronounced dead on arrival at the Philippine General Hospital in Manila around 5 p.m. on July 27, 1986. His death was caused by multiple concussions in the head and body.
Narrated by Dennis Antenor, Jr. (formerly Dennis Guisado of YES! FM 101.1) and Jupiter Torres, a documentary film about the project in the life of the Philippines in the past 127 years.
After breaking free from the clutches of Spain on June 12, 1898, the country survived two more foreign invasions, a 20-year Marcos tyranny, and all the natural and man-made disasters that came in between and after.
Virtually all the nations of the world are heaping praise on the Philippines.
The tributes and accolades include wishes for progress and maturity as the country strives to overcome the regional economic crunch in its march toward the next millennium.
Aguinaldo read the country's declaration of independence from Spain at the main window of his Kawit mansion and waved the Philippine flag for the first time as the national anthem, composed by Julian Felipe, was played for the first time.
The declaration of independence came after a series of decisive victories by the Katipuneros, who routed some 250 Spaniards in the battles of Alapan, where the patriots prevented the hamletting of an entire town, and Binakayan, where they overran a Spanish arsenal.
That the victories came as tropical thunderstorms pounded Luzon in May and June of 1898 seems ironic in a time of scorching El Niño, eased only by occasional rains.
On December 9, 1985, the first issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer rolled off the press with its banner story— “It’s Cory-Doy”. It didn’t even have a slogan, and so atop its masthead was a kicker: ‘A slogan? Help us write one and win a prize.’ The maiden issue, all 30,000 copies, sold out at P2 each.
“The job of a newspaper is to report the news. That, in a word, is what the Philippine Daily Inquirer is all about,” said the paper in its first editorial ‘A Statement of Purpose, Separating News from Views,’ written by its first publisher, the late Max Soliven.
Noting that they lived in very interesting times, the editorial said the PDI will “chronicle these times with candor, and we trust, with courage.”
It was one of three alternative dailies that bannered the flight of the Marcoses at the height of the 1986 Edsa People Power Revolution.
The first Inquirer issues looked like an unmade bed, recalled managing editor Jose Ma. Nolasco. ‘We didn’t have money, we didn’t have a printing press. We had stories on page one. [Those issues] will never win any design competition,” he said.
“When we established the Inquirer, we didn’t think that one day it would be No. 1. Never did it cross our minds,” Nolasco said in a recent strategic planning session.
Chronicling the mounting public opposition to the Marcos regime, PDI’s circulation grew from just 30,000 to more than 250,000 by the time the snap election was held in February 1986.
Twenty-three-year-old Stephen Salcedo was pronounced dead on arrival at the Philippine General Hospital in Manila around 5 p.m. on July 27, 1986. His death was caused by multiple concussions in the head and body.
ABS-CBN would reopen only on September 14, 1986, after a popular rebellion toppled Ferdinand Marcos and brought Corazon Aquino to power, the widow of slain opposition senator Benigno Aquino, Jr.
In just five years, in 1990, the Inquirer overtook another daily to become the biggest circulated broadsheet in the country as validated by a circulation audit done by Sycip, Gorres, and Velayo. Since then, the Inquirer has kept its lead as the paper with the biggest circulation and readership.
In just five years, in 1990, the Inquirer overtook another daily to become the biggest circulated broadsheet in the country as validated by a circulation audit done by Sycip, Gorres, and Velayo. Since then, the Inquirer has kept its lead as the paper with the biggest circulation and readership.
On February 21, 1992, Associated Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) officially returned to the air as the Associated Broadcasting Company (ABC). This rebranding was not just a superficial change, but a strategic move to signify a fresh start and a commitment to innovation and relevance in an evolving media landscape. The flagship station adopted the call sign DWET-TV, while the corporate name transitioned to Associated Broadcasting Company—employing the initial "C" instead of "Corporation" to symbolize a more dynamic and accessible entity. This change encapsulated a broader ethos: aligning the network's identity with its mission for growth and modernization, reflecting the new management's vision and energy that infused the network with renewed ambition.
Over its first two formative years, the network expanded its reach beyond just the capital city of Manila, diligently launching new stations in key regional cities such as Cebu, Davao, Baguio, Naga, Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, and General Santos. Each venture was backed by multi-million peso investments dedicated to state-of-the-art equipment and modern facilities, signaling a significant commitment to quality broadcasting. The incorporation of these new stations was not merely a numbers game; it demonstrated a strategic effort to become a ubiquitous presence across the Philippines and cater to diverse audiences. Cebu's DYET-TV was particularly praised for its crystal-clear signal, heralding an era where quality became synonymous with the network's brand identity.
Meanwhile, Davao's DXET-TV garnered accolades and was hailed by the Manila Standard as a "showcase provincial station." The recognition was not incidental; the station’s impressive infrastructure, described as a "mini-Nova," echoed the main building at Novaliches, effectively mirroring the flagship station's commitment to high standards in broadcasting and production. The cultural implications of this recognition highlighted a gradual shift in how regional stations were perceived, elevating their status and importance in the national media landscape. It exemplified how the broadcast capabilities of regions outside Metro Manila were rising, contributing to the national dialogue, and showcasing local talent and stories that were often overlooked by the mainstream media in the capital.
By the end of 1993, the network ranked third in ratings behind major competitors GMA and ABS-CBN, a remarkable achievement within just a couple of years of operation. This emerging position in the competitive media landscape underscores ABC's effective strategy of reaching deeper into the heart of Filipino culture through local programming that resonates with the diverse interests and needs of the populace. Rather than merely replicating programming from other successful networks, ABC placed a strong emphasis on developing indigenous content that appealed to the distinct tastes of various regional viewers, thereby solidifying its foothold in the broadcasting arena.
The year 1994 was pivotal for ABC as they planned to launch two more stations in anticipation of their satellite broadcast service, an innovative leap that would revolutionize the way media was consumed in the Philippines. On February 4, 1994, ABC officially launched nationwide satellite broadcasting, embracing cutting-edge technology to extend its reach and enhance viewership. This strategic move was not just about keeping pace with competition but also about setting a new standard for accessibility in television broadcasting. It democratized content, allowing even remote communities to access quality programming that had previously been out of reach, fostering a greater sense of connection among viewers across the archipelago.
As ABC experienced rapid growth, it earned the reputation of being "The Fastest Growing Network" during this time, a testament to the effective leadership under the network's Chief Operating Officer, Tina Monzon-Palma. Her innovative approach to management and commitment to fostering creative talent within the organization were lauded for redefining expectations in the Philippine media. Under her guidance, ABC not only focused on expansion but also on nurturing the next generation of broadcasters, writers, and producers who would carry the network’s vision forward. This commitment to developing human resources was essential not only for maintaining the quality of content but also for lessening the divide between the capital and regional areas, where talent was often underestimated or disregarded.
The establishment of a strong network infrastructure, combined with an acute understanding of audience needs, allowed ABC to carve out a niche that resonated with viewers. Programming choices highlighted local stories, aspirations, and unique cultural narratives, resonating well with regional audiences and weaving the communities into the broader tapestry of Filipino media. This approach aided not just the network's growth in ratings but also its reputation as a champion of homegrown content, ultimately fostering a platform where diverse voices could be heard and celebrated.
In retrospect, the period following the reboot of ABC marked not just the rise of a singular network but an evolution of the Philippine media landscape itself. The network’s dynamic expansion strategies, community-centric programming, and commitment to quality broadcasting rejuvenated television consumption across the islands. As ABC positioned itself within Filipino homes, it helped to reshape not only the viewing experience but also the cultural fabric of the nation—an enduring legacy that laid the groundwork for future generations of broadcasters and storytellers in the Philippines.
With these developments, the network firmly established its identity and direction, proving that with conscious planning and a commitment to excellence, growth was not merely possible—it was tangible and rapid. The successful trajectory of ABC during this foundational period echoes in the ongoing narrative of media evolution within the Philippines, serving as a benchmark for other aspiring broadcasters and a reminder of the power of reinvention in any industry.
In time for the launch of the "INQUIRER Lifestyle Series: Fitness.Fashion with Samsung" project. The fashion show project was supported by various companies, such as: HSBC, The Peninsula Manila, Ayala Corporation, San Miguel Corporation, SM Investments Corporation, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation, GMA Network, Inc., People's Television (PTV) Channel 4, Associated Broadcasting Company (ABC-5), RPN-9, IBC-13, Manila Broadcasting Company-DZRH, movie outfits such as Alura Films, Crown Seven Ventures, Dianne Films, FLT Film International, GMA Films, Good Harvest, MAQ Productions, Monlee & Roxlee Productions, Regal Entertainment, Inc., Religious of the Virgin Mary, Star Cinema, Teamwork Productions, and Viva Films, fast-food chains and food companies.
Initially, Senator Cayetano, along with Rina Go-Thorp and Paolo Abrera as co-guest models of the Manila Show. Their fathers former Sen. Renato Cayetano died on June 24, 2003 and while Caloy Abrera was died on April 17, 2004.
former swimmer Akiko Thompson, Atty. Amanda and Leica Carpo, models Phoemela Baranda and Trishan Cuazo, Manny Osmena’s wife Svetlana Pangan-Osmena and Ernie Lopez’s wife Jeena Llamas-Lopez was the first batch of guest models for the show in 2003.
Swimmer Enchong Dee, powerlifter Ruby Gan, and educator Fely Atienza were added to as co-guest models of the event in August 2006. Mister Dee was a student at De La Salle University in 2006. The logo was designed by Alizza Buitong-Mistades in July 2007.
The Makati City Government went on to say that the streets will close due to the construction of the millennium celebration stage at Ayala Avenue and Makati Avenue.
Many events happened at the time of the project, such as the Eat Bulaga! Silver Special on November 18, 2004, at the Clark Centennial Expo in Angeles City, Pampanga, the "Hello, Garci" controversy, the 2005 and 2007 Southeast Asian Games, the PhilSports arena stampede, typhoons that hit Metro Manila and other province,s and the sinking of ferries.
Fashion becomes less of a spectator sport when sport itself becomes the fashion.
This year’s competition theme is “The Philippines in the New Millennium”.
The 21st Century and 3rd Millennium is an important milestone for mankind. It brings opportunities for quantum leaps in total human development. Our business, health, entertainment, fashion, legal, media, political, religious, and sports personalities are challenged to give a unique visual representation of what they see in the Philippines in the New Millennium.
Co-presented with Samsung, along with Shokubutsu Hana and Systema Tooth and Gum Care, it drew guests who cut across the fields of fashion, business and commerce, arts, media, and entertainment. With the support of HSBC and Peninsula, the show had 12 sought-after designers melding their creations with the latest brand collections: Kipling with Vic Barba; Fila with Lulu Tan-Gan; Nike Golf with Anthony Nocom; Speedo with Louis Claparols; Adidas with Patrice Ramos-Diaz and Rhett Eala; Marks & Spencer with Arcy Gayatin; Aigle and Oxbow with Rajo Laurel; Bench with Joey Samson; and Puma with Ivarluski Aseron and Randy Ortiz.
“Fitness.Fashion” also scored a coup with the runway debut of fitness enthusiast and sports advocate Sen. Pia Cayetano. Other guest models were Akiko Thompson, Amanda Carpo, Rina Go, Paolo Abrera, Phoemela Baranda, Svetlana Osmeña, Jeena Lopez, Enchong Dee, Ruby Gan, Fely Atienza, Trishan Cuazo, catwalk queens Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez and Apples Aberin-Sadhwani, and Inquirer’s own Tessa Prieto-Valdes and Leica Carpo.
As of the latest reports, the 2015 First Quarter Consumer and Media View survey of The Nielsen Co., the Inquirer remains the top choice of 52.7 percent of ABC1 newspaper readers in major urban areas in the country.
The Manila Bulletin was a far second with a 34.3-percent readership, and the Philippine Star, placed third with a 16.6-percent readership.
The Inquirer has also consistently ranked among the Top 1,000 companies in the Philippines.
The country’s paper of record, the Inquirer, has chronicled the country’s history over the last quarter-century. From the 1986 Edsa Revolution, the Inquirer was at the forefront of covering major upheavals, momentous events, and powerful stories that changed the course of the nation’s history.
The installation of Aquino’s widow Corazon Aquino in 1986 to her death in 2009 led to the election of her only son Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III as President in 2010 and Rodrigo "Rody" Duterte on June 30, 2016 and Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr. on June 30, 2022; from the unforgettable visits of Pope John Paul II in February 1981 and January 1995, and Pope Francis in 2015, to the devastating earthquake in July 16, 1990 in Baguio, Cabanatuan and Dagupan, July 27, 2022 in Abra, September 30, 2025 in Cebu and October 10, 2025 in Davao, the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991 and Taal Lake in January 2020 and the horrific Supertyphoon “Yolanda” in 2013; from the Senate vote to end the US military bases agreement in 1991, to the Centennial of Philippine Independence in 1998, when the Inquirer first published in full color.
Unequaled in its courageous reporting, the Inquirer played its watchdog role in the ouster of the corruption-plagued administrations of Joseph Estrada and the ascendancy of his successor, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
To get back at the Inquirer for its exposure of his involvement in corruption, Estrada instigated an ad boycott against the paper on July 3, 1999, that lasted five months. The Inquirer survived on support from its loyal advertisers and readers who sent encouraging letters and even donations to keep the Inquirer going.
Thousands of people gathered at the historic EDSA shrine to call for his resignation after he was accused of amassing ill-gotten wealth and fund diversion.
Sen. Renato Cayetano died of abdominal cancer at his home in Ayala Alabang subdivision in Muntinlupa City on June 24, 2003.
Estrada was convicted of plunder by the Sandiganbayan on September 12, 2007 but later granted pardoned by President Macapagal-Arroyo on October 26, 2007.
The pork barrel scam also earned Carvajal and the Inquirer all the major journalism awards here and abroad for two years running.
With interviews by Thelma Sioson-San Juan, Apples Aberin, Irene Perez, Cheche V. Moral, and Fran Katigbak.
Videos by ABS-CBN News Library, Television Pool of Thailand, KMBC-TV, NHK International, PTV-4, GMA Network Library
