CEBU, Philippines – GMA News TV makes it to the finals of the prestigious Japan Prize with two of its programs – the original series “Titser” and the documentary program “Reel Time” which are the only finalists from the Philippines. The Japan Prize was established in 1965 by the NHK as an International Educational Program Contest with the aim of improving the quality of educational programs around the world. This year, Japan Prize received 320 entries from 62 different countries.
“Titser” is one of 7 finalists chosen under the Creative Frontier Category and is a candidate for a special award, the Maeda Prize (for excellent work dealing with issues in a producer’s country or region) while Reel Time’s “Nibulaysir” documentary is also a candidate for the Maeda Prize.
“Titser” is a dramatic series about a high school valedictorian from a poor barrio school (played by Lovi Poe) who dreams of becoming a teacher but whose only option after graduation is to work as a housemaid. The series also discusses Philippine educational issues: lack of books and chairs and classrooms, corruption in the procurement process of schools and how majority of the population has only reached a high school level – or less – of education.
Reel Time’s Nibulaysir episode documents the fascinating story of 25-year -old Maribel, who decides to enroll in Grade 1 upon being called ignorant by her seven-year-old daughter. She ends up as a classmate of her own daughter. Through Maribel's experiences, the program presents a vivid picture of how basic literacy can change a person’s life.
There will be a final round of judging before the Japan Prize winners are announced in October. (PR)