This December, “Unang Hirit” marks a significant milestone, celebrating 25 years as the country’s longest-running morning show. Since its debut in 1999, the program has become an integral part of Filipino mornings, serving as a reliable source of news, public service, and entertainment.
Reflecting on the show’s enduring mission, Arnold Clavio stated: “Bahagi na ng aming buhay ang magpasaya sa inyo, magbigay ng pag-asa at maging alarm clock ninyo sa umaga at source ng mahahalagang impormasyon. Mula noon hanggang ngayon, walang pagbabago. Ang mauna kayo sa lahat ang dala-dala naming pangako hanggang sa susunod na 25 taon.”
Susan Enriquez extended gratitude to the loyal audience that has supported the show over the years: “Maraming salamat po sa inyong pagtangkilik. Ang 25 years po ng ‘Unang Hirit’ ay dahil po sa inyo, dahil po sa inyong pagsubaybay sa amin. Kaya maraming, maraming salamat. Sana, 25 years pa ‘yung dumating.”
Over its 25-year journey, “Unang Hirit” has played a pivotal role in Philippine morning television, setting trends, igniting conversations, and becoming a cultural mainstay. Lyn Ching emphasized this connection with the audience: “Thank you for letting us be a part of your lives for 25 years. I hope you keep tuning in every morning with the barkada!”
The program is celebrating its silver anniversary with a weeklong special featuring exciting segments, surprises, and tributes. The festivities will culminate on December 6, designated as “National Unang Hirit Day,” commemorating the exact date of its first broadcast. On this day, the show will host on-ground activities and public service initiatives, embodying its commitment to viewers.
As part of the celebration, “Unang Hirit” has introduced the “Sorpresa Bente Singko” series, offering viewers affordable essentials such as rice and LPG for P25, with some items even given away for free. This initiative will expand with more nationwide giveaways in the coming weeks.
Adding to the special programming, a newly arranged version of the show’s theme song will debut, performed live by Jose Mari Chan, Zephanie, and Mark Bautista. The Sexbomb Dancers, who are also marking their 25th anniversary, will reunite for a nostalgic performance. Other celebrities and influencers are set to join the celebration, ensuring a memorable event.
For Suzi Entrata-Abrera, who has been part of the show since its inception, the milestone is deeply meaningful: “As somebody na nag-umpisa sa ‘Unang Hirit’ 25 years ago, from Day 1, you can just imagine the feels that I have. I am so excited… Medyo emotional nga ako minsan kasi silver anniversary. Who would’ve thought 25 years later we’re still doing this? At na-a-appreciate pa rin kami ng manood kaya maraming salamat.”
Ivan Mayrina highlighted the bond the program has built with viewers: “Ang pinaka nakaka-proud being part of this show, is when people walk up to you and tell you, ‘Estudyante pa lang po ako, pinapanood ko na kayo. Ngayon po may trabaho na ako, kayo pa rin ang pinapanood ko.’ It’s a big honor para sa’kin na pinatuloy tayo ng mga Kapuso natin sa kanilang mga tahanan tuwing umaga.”
The anniversary is a celebration of the trust and support the program has received from its audience. “Unang Hirit” continues to air weekdays at 5:30 a.m. on GMA and is available globally via GMA Pinoy TV.
