MANILA, Philippines - ABS-CBN Global continues the tradition of bringing top quality and relevant television programming to Filipinos overseas as it celebrates the seventh anniversary of Balitang Middle East (BME) on The Filipino Channel (TFC). Since Nov. 2, 2002, the news-magazine program has featured various Pinoy community events and consulate happenings, as well as tackling the issues of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) in the Middle East. On its seventh year, BME assures kapamilya in the region with its commitment to be their voice and main source of news and information.
Featuring widespread coverage from the Middle East News Bureau Chief Dindo Amparo, together with more than 20 correspondents throughout the region, Balitang Middle East has offered viewers the most compelling and relevant news and information for Filipinos in the region. The show began with four segment categories: Amparo on Assignment, which features a story gathered and narrated by News Bureau Chief; Handog Kabayan, which highlights the Filipino bayanihan spirit; Ulat Pambata, which showcases different children’s events; and Bantay Kabayan, which tackles legal and medical concerns of OFWs. Led by the dynamic tandem of Marieton Pacheco and Rikki Kwek, BME has centered on relevant stories, leaving an indelible mark in the daily lives of Pinoys in the region.
TFC further empowers the BME’s drive for public service. Bantay Kabayan has now become more interactive by allowing viewers to engage notable experts to find right the solutions. Oks na oks! does not let any good deed go unrewarded by highlighting Pinoy triumphs big or small. Through User Generated Content, the show is open to receive OFW opinions, comments and suggestions. Since the 13th of November, the new tandem of Henry Omaga-Diaz and Jing Castañeda has been leading Balitang Middle East twice daily, strengthening its service to Filipinos in the Middle East.