GMA News shifts to solo-anchor format as cost-saving measure

GMA News has quietly reduced the number of anchors on several of its news programs, with most now adopting a single-anchor format as part of a division-wide revamp.

This change, which took effect earlier this month, affects nearly all of GMA News’ news programs, with the exception of GTV’s Balitanghali and its flagship newscast, 24 Oras.

The reduction in anchors is reportedly a cost-cutting measure in response to the network’s decline in ad revenue. As per the Philippine Star, GMA Network Inc. saw a 49 percent drop in profits in the first half of 2024.

As it stands, Saksi will now be solely anchored by Pia Arcangel, with Arnold Clavio focusing on Unang Hirit. Atom Araullo, meanwhile, will now anchor State of the Nation alone.

Additionally, as per our sources, 24 Oras Weekend will now rotate between Arcangel and Ivan Mayrina as lead anchors.

GMA-7 has been expanding in the digital space to increase ad placements. This effort has boosted digital ad revenue by seven percent, though it may not fully offset the network’s financial challenges.

Still the leader in free-TV, GMA-7 is not alone in facing reduced profits. Just last week, ABS-CBN laid off one hundred employees amid similar challenges.