Rhian Ramos on Why She's Stayed Loyal to GMA

Rhian Ramos unexpectedly turned emotional when The STAR asked how GMA Network had earned her fierce loyalty for almost two decades as a Kapuso artist

- By Nathalie Tomada

Earlier this week, members of the press, including this paper, witnessed the renewal of Rhian's exclusive contract with GMA as one of the network's prized talents.

In attendance were president and chief executive officer Gilberto Duavit Jr., executive vice president and chief financial officer Felipe Yalong, and officer-in-charge for the Entertainment Group and vice president for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy. Also present were Rhian's manager, Michael Uycoco, and her "discoverer," senior vice president for Programming, Talent Management, Worldwide, and Support Group, and president of GMA Films, lawyer Annette Gozon-Valdes.

Network executives took turns praising and thanking the actress during the signing.

"From a number of drama roles to hosting reality, musical and lifestyle shows throughout these years, Rhian has not shown anything but versatility, professionalism and loyalty," Duavit said. "She is a fine example to all of us and Rhian makes us very proud."

Ching-Sy expressed her gratitude to the actress: "Thank you for choosing to remain a Kapuso once again. Isa kang natatanging Kera (queen) hindi lamang sa 'Encantadia' kundi dito rin sa GMA at sa mga puso ng manonood. I've seen your growth as an artist, and I can proudly say that you are one of this generation's best actresses. Please continue to grow and be an inspiration to other people."