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Asia's Multimedia Star Alden Richards is ecstatic about the much-awaited comeback of the reality kiddie singing competition Centerstage starting Sunday, February 8.

During the virtual media conference for the show, Alden shared that because of the COVID-19 pandemic, he was convinced that Centerstage has concluded for good.

“Siyempre, when we stopped taping for Centerstage after the ECQ (enhanced community quarantine) was announced, ako personally, I really had a fear of baka hindi na matuloy. Baka hanggang dun na lang talaga since everybody would understand since nag-lockdown nga we have COVID-19 to blame dun sa nangyari,” he related.

ECQ was implemented in March 2020 to help the government curb the transmission the coronavirus, to which children and elder population are much vulnerable.

Months after the suspension, the show's production team received news that Centerstage would be back on air soon but with significant adjustments.

Since kids are not allowed to go outside their homes, it introduces a virtual set, a first in Philippine television.

“And now that we're back, we couldn't be happier kasi this is a breakthrough again in Philippine television, to be able to do a TV show virtually for the safety of the contestants since we're catering to kids.

“Kung gaano po kami ka-excited, I'm sure magiging excited din po 'yung mga tao sa main idea of the virtual set.

"Paano ba tayo mag-i-introduce ng virtual set on national television? It's gonna be the first,” he said.

Because of this measure, Alden has once again expressed his gratitude and respect for GMA Network for its service to the Filipino people.

“But ewan ko, for me not being biased with GMA but for some reasons, GMA always has a way.

"There's always a way despite what's happening around.

"GMA will always adjust for the Kapuso viewers for the Filipino viewers to be able to continue watching certain shows that they love to watch in the Kapuso network.

“So, dun ako napa-proud to be Kapuso kasi I've been with them for 10 years and like, for example, sa AR reality concert, iniisip nila na possible, e. Everything is possible, everything thinkable is possible.

“I'm just really proud and happy that GMA is being able to sustain TV programs para sa mga Kapuso natin na patuloy na nagbibigay-suporta sa amin,” he added.

Get to know the award-winning judges of Centerstage in this gallery:

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