A refreshing challenger in the battle of noontime shows

Amid earlier buzz that comedian and gameshow host Willie Revillame is throwing his hat in the fierce battle of TV noontime programs, it turns out that a smart, sweet and sensible lady is the emerging contender instead.

Broadcaster Niña Corpuz, a familiar face from her days in ABS-CBN, will find herself pitted against lunchtime TV giants “E.A.T.,” “It’s Showtime” and “Eat Bulaga” when she launches her brand new current affairs program, “Bangon Pilipinas,” on PTV4.

Seasoned broadcaster Niña Corpuz 

“Oh my! I will be in the middle of it all, won’t I,” Corpuz, a mother of three young kids, giggled nervously when a huddle of Entertainment editors asked her how she felt about being the government networks’ defacto representative in the ratings game.

With her trademark warmth and wit, Niña joked, “Basta pag ayaw nila ng gulo, manood sila sa akin. [If viewers want to stay out of their mess, they can watch me instead].”

More seriously, the seasoned broadcaster who has handled varied news programs in her former network (Nina’s experience ranges from reporting from the field and anchoring news telecasts to hosting health and parenting shows on radio and TV) added, “You know, I even I watch their shows, especially TVJ because they’re a classic.

“But then again, if you think about it, given the millions upon millions of viewers there are out there, there should be some that may want to watch current affairs one day and then switch to entertainment again. All I can hope is for the public to check out what our show can offer them, too.”

Niña explained that “Bangon Pilipinas” is not just another news program but, rather, a beacon of hope and information for the Filipino people.

“As the name suggests, it’s all about uplifting the nation, shedding light on pressing issues, and inspiring positive change.”

The show aims to tackle a wide range of topics, from government policies and public services to human interest stories and community initiatives. Its core focus is to provide a platform for addressing the concerns and questions of the public, bridging the gap between citizens and the government.

“My guests will be the spokespersons, undersecretaries and other official representatives of the various government departments who can best talk about their specific projects,” she elaborated.

Niña, whose ABS-CBN shows were affected by the network’s franchise loss, is grateful to have found a place amid PTV4’s broader initiative to revamp its programming lineup.

Corpuz (rightmost) with the veterans of PTV4 (from left) Bill Velasco, Naomi Tiburcio, Angelique Lazo, Rep. Erwin Tulfo, General Manager Ana Puod and Mike Abe. PTV DIGITAL PHOTO 

The People’s Television Network (PTV) is at the cusp of significant transformation as its appointed top executives engage in producing more timely and relevant content while expanding its reach.

PTV General Manager Ana Puod revealed at a press conference on September 8 that the network’s blueprint for “Rebranding, Revenue, and Reorganization” extends beyond PTV4’s role as a government station.

“We envision the network as a commercial station with a balanced mix of news, culture, education, sports, and inspirational entertainment content,” the chief added.

Among the notable additions to PTV’s programming is “Punto Asintado Reload,” hosted by veteran broadcasters Erwin Tulfo and Aljo Bendijo, which promises hard-hitting discussions and news analysis; “On the Ground” by Presidential Adviser on Creative Communications Paul Soriano, giving insights into President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s activities through “BBM Vlogs;” investigative stories with “On Assignment” with Maan Macapagal and PTV correspondents; international programming with “Stories from the Grid” and “Global Roundup,” hosted by Charms Espina and Monique Tuzon, respectively; multilingual newsbreaks in English, Filipino, and other major local languages via “PTV News Now,” “PTV Balita Ngayon,” and “PTV Balita Ngayon sa Probinsya;” “Mike Abe Live,” a morning commentary program; regular weekday newscasts such as “Sentro Balita,” “Ulat Bayan” and “PTV News Tonight; and “Ulat Bayan Weekend” anchored by broadcaster Dominic Almelor.

Puod further announced that more engaging content, including “Chatroom” with Malacañang Press Briefer Daphne Oseña-Paez, the emergency response program “Code Red” with William Thio, and a travel documentary series titled “Go Beyond Borders,” are also in the pipeline.

While PTV4 General Manager Ana Puod posted this picture with comedian and gameshow host Willie Revillame, she said the possible inclusion of ‘Wowowin’ in the government network’s programming is still under discussion. 

Asked to comment on the potential of a Willie Revillame addition to the lineup, Puod averred it would be an exciting addition to their programming but clarified that PTV4 and IBC-13 are still discussing the matter with the erstwhile “Wowowin” host.

Niña couldn’t agree more with the big boss, remarking, “Of course, he’s a welcome addition. He is still Willie Revillame. And if there are more [personalities] to help the network keep viewers happy, why not? That would be wonderful for Channel 4. We need a show like that because sometimes we also need a break.”

PTV4’s new programming rolls on September 18, with plans to establish 60 digital channels nationwide through a JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency Philippine Office) partnership.