That unmistakable sign-off phrase “Kapuso, buong puso para sa Pilipino” just reminds us of GMA Network. Where hit shows, award-winning newscasts and record-breaking variety shows leave their own mark on the viewers.
From 24 Oras to Eat Bulaga to Maria Clara at Ibarra, GMA has been among the highest performing and most trusted television networks for decades already.
But for the sake of curiosity, let me bring you up to speed with this: what in the world is GMA, anyway? — is it a network, company, or broadcast franchise? And where do you watch GMA nowadays on TV, cable, and the web?
This 2025 guide will take you through GMA’s ownership, platforms, where it is broadcast, and how it continues to reign across television and digital spaces.
What is GMA Network?
GMA Network Inc. is the largest and oldest Philippine broadcast company.
“GMA” was originally an acronym for “Greater Manila Area.” Its initial broadcasting region. When expansion reached the entire country, GMA became known as the Kapuso Network, named after its heart symbol and its connection to Filipino identity.
It has several free TV, digital, and online channels under one corporate family.
Ownership of GMA Network
GMA is owned by the Gozon, Jimenez, and Duavit families.
Its flagship holding company is GMA Network Inc., headquartered along Timog Avenue, Quezon City, where the GMA Tower of Power and GMA Studios stand.
With origins in AM radio, it has grown into a nationwide multimedia giant.
GMA’s Main TV Channel and Frequency
| Platform | Channel / Frequency | Type | Coverage |
| GMA-7 Manila | Channel 7 (UHF Digital) | Main Flagship Station | Nationwide |
| GTV (formerly GMA News TV) | Channel 27 | Secondary Free TV Channel | Nationwide |
| GMA Regional TV | Various provincial channels | Regional / Local News | Nationwide |
| GMA Pinoy TV | Cable & Satellite | International Broadcast | Worldwide |
The flagship GMA-7 Manila airs news, dramas, comedies, variety shows and special programs.
What Network is GMA on Free TV
GMA Network may be viewed on digital or analog TV — on Channel 7 in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
These are its lineup of free TV flagship stations:
| Region | Channel Number | Station Call Sign |
| Metro Manila | Channel 7 | DZBB-TV |
| Cebu | Channel 7 | DYSS-TV |
| Davao | Channel 5 | DXMJ-TV |
| Iloilo | Channel 6 | DYXX-TV |
| Dagupan | Channel 10 | DWDG-TV |
| Bicol | Channel 12 | DWAI-TV |
Through digital TV, GMA also reaches audiences through UHF digital channels with improved reception and multiple subchannels for GMA and GTV.
GTV: GMA’s Second Free TV Channel
GMA’s second channel, GTV (Good Television). It was formerly GMA News TV in 2021.
It features news, public affairs, sports and entertainment programs.
Most Watched GTV Programs
- Balitanghali
- State of the Nation
- Family Feud (En/Rpt)
- Fast Talk with Boy Abunda
- AHA!
GTV is available on Channel 27 in Metro Manila and covers major provinces nationwide.
GMA Online and Digital Portals
GMA also thrives online. Kapuso programs are available across various digital and mobile platforms:
GMA Affordabox and Digital TV
- GMA Affordabox allows HD-quality free viewing of GMA and GTV shows without cable subscription.
GMA Now (USB Mobile TV)
- A plug-and-watch USB device that lets you stream GMA programs live on your mobile phone.
YouTube Channels
- GMA Network
- GMA News
- GMA Public Affairs
- GMANetwork.com Entertainment
These broadcast news updates, full episodes, and special features 24/7.
GMA Pinoy TV
- Broadcasts Kapuso shows to over 100 countries through international cable and satellite partners.
Alliance of GMA On Demand & iWantTFC
- GMA has expanded partnerships for on-demand streaming and digital content distribution, allowing flexible online viewing worldwide.
Principal Programs Under GMA Network
GMA remains a powerhouse for variety, drama, and news programs.
Highest Rated GMA Entertainment Shows
- Maria Clara at Ibarra
- Black Rider
- The Write One
- Family Feud
- Bubble Gang
- Pepito Manaloto
- Eat Bulaga!
- All-Out Sundays
Highest Rated GMA News and Public Affairs Shows
- 24 Oras
- Saksi
- Balitanghali
- Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS)
- Born to Be Wild
These shows consistently dominate both TV ratings and online viewership.
GMA Other Channels and Sub-Networks
| Channel | Focus |
| Heart of Asia Channel | Asian telenovelas and dramas |
| Hallypop Channel | Variety, music shows, and K-pop |
| I Heart Movies | Foreign and local movies |
| GMA Life TV | Lifestyle, talk, and entertainment shows (international) |
These are sub-channels within GMA’s digital TV package, available on Affordabox, digital receivers, and cable operators.
GMA vs ABS-CBN: Comparison Summary
| Category | GMA Network | ABS-CBN |
| Main Channel | GMA-7 | A2Z (blocktime partner) |
| Company Type | Independent | Partners / Content provider |
| Free TV Viewing | Yes, nationwide | Through A2Z / TV5 |
| Streaming Sites | GMA Now, GMA Pinoy TV, YouTube | iWantTFC, Kapamilya Online Live |
| Strength of Coverage | National (largest free TV signal) | Lead in digital/cable |
| Tagline | “Kapuso, Buong Puso Para Sa Pilipino” | “In the Service of the Filipino” |
GMA remains the largest free-to-air network in the country. ABS-CBN has shifted toward digital and partnership based distribution.
Why People Prefer GMA
- Widest reach on free TV – No subscription required to watch anywhere in the Philippines.
- Most reliable news – GMA News is one of Asia’s best.
- Top-rated entertainment – Consistently dominates TV ratings.
- Accessible worldwide – Via GMA Pinoy TV and online platforms.
- Low-cost digital options – Through Affordabox and mobile streaming.
FAQs
Where is GMA on TV?
GMA is Channel 7 in Metro Manila, Cebu and most Philippine towns and provinces.
Is GMA free TV?
Yes. GMA is a major free TV network. It can be watched without subscription.
What is the second channel of GMA?
GMA’s second channel is GTV (Channel 27). Which is known for news, lifestyle and sports.
Can I watch GMA online?
Yes. You can watch via GMA YouTube channels, GMA Now app or GMA Pinoy TV for international viewers.
Who owns GMA Network?
GMA Network is owned by the Gozon, Jimenez and Duavit families under GMA Network Inc.
So then, what network is GMA in the Philippines?
GMA is a Philippine free TV network, airing through Channel 7 GMA and affiliated networks such as GTV, Heart of Asia, and Hallypop.
It remains the country’s leading free TV network, reaching millions of Filipinos daily through television, cable, and online streaming.
From Saturday night specials to daily news programs and Kapuso blockbusters, GMA continues to be the heart of Philippine broadcasting — living true to its mission, “Buong Puso Para Sa Pilipino.”