The announcement of Felipe Gozon’s retirement was made during his 84th birthday celebration

Reaching over 73 million Filipinos across the Philippines, GMA Network is one of the biggest legacy media brands in the country. Steering the company towards success since 2000 is chairman and CEO Felipe Gozon. 23 years since he took the helm, he has announced his retirement as CEO. 

Beginning January 1, 2024, GMA President and COO Gilberto Duavit Jr. will take on the role of CEO. It should be noted that Gozon will continue to be chairman of the board as well as adviser, according to a report. 

The announcement of Gozon’s retirement was made during his own 84th birthday celebration, which was held in EDSA Shangri-La. 

GMA Under the Leadership of Felipe Gozon 

Prior to being known as GMA, the broadcast network was known as Republic Broadcasting System, Inc. (RBS). In 1975, the company was revived by Gozon, Gilberto Duavit Sr., and Menardo Jimenez. 

However, it was only in 2000 when Gozon took the lead in the company. Under his leadership, GMA rose to become one of the top broadcast networks in the company. 

Gilberto Duavit Jr.

The son of one of the founders of GMA, Gilberto Duavit Jr. became a member of the company’s board of directors in 1999. He eventually became the chairman of the executive committee a year later. 

His other roles and executive positions are as follows:

• Chairman of the Board of GMA Network Films
• President and CEO of GMA Holdings, Inc., and RGMA Marketing and Productions, Inc.
• Chairman, president, and CEO of Group Management and Development, Inc., and Dual Management and Investments, Inc.
• Vice chairman of GMA Ventures, Inc.

Effective January 1, 2024, Joel Marcelo Jimenez will take his place as the chairman of the executive committee. 

‘A New Era’ for GMA Network 

The change in leadership after 23 years since Felipe Gozon became CEO is undoubtedly an important event in GMA’s history. In fact, it has been referred to as a “new era” for GMA.

While it remains to be seen what changes this will bring to the company, GMA will continue to deliver on its commitment to quality content and superior coverage. The company likewise affirms its commitment towards “making a meaningful and resonating impact while sustainably creating value for its various stakeholders.”