Still a Kapuso: Michael V. renews ties with GMA Network

Michael V., famously known as Bitoy, remains a proud Kapuso after renewing his ties with GMA Network.

The ceremonial contract signing was held on Monday morning at GMA Network’s Studio 7.

Present at the event were GMA President and Chief Executive Officer Gilberto R. Duavit Jr., Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Felipe S. Yalong, GMA Network Officer-In-Charge for Entertainment Group and Vice President for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy, and Bitoy's wife and talent manager Carolina Bunagan. 

"Thirty years, as long as it may seem, napaka-fruitful ng 30 years na 'yun," Bitoy said in his speech. 

"GMA ang nagbigay sa 'kin ng freedom to spread my wings," he added. 

In his speech, Duavit said that it's not everyday that he gets to sit beside a "living legend."

"I think the more appropriate way to put it is he is a creative force," he said. "I can only gush because I am a Bitoy fan."

Meanwhile, in a recorded video message, GMA Network Inc. chairman Felipe Gozon congratulated Bitoy on his 30 years being a Kapuso. 

"As you renew your contract with us today, I want you to know that getting you to join 'Bubble Gang' in 1995 was one of the best decisions that GMA Network has ever made," Gozon said. 

"You have made a great contribution to make GMA Network a leader in comedy," he added. "Maraming salamat for always choosing GMA as your home."

Bitoy spearheaded the comedy show "Bubble Gang” since it launched in 1995. The show has since become a household name, with the veteran comedian at the forefront of creating skits, parodies, and comedic characters. 

In recent years, Bitoy has delighted Kapuso viewers with viral parodies of hit OPM songs, including “Sining” by Dionela feat. Jay-R, “Dilaw" by Maki, “Raining in Manila” by Lola Amour, and “Gusto Ko Nang Bumitaw” by Morisette Amon, among others. 

“Bubble Gang” airs on GMA Network every Sunday at 6:15 p.m. — LA, GMA Integrated News