BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT
AT A GLANCE
Now on its 8th season, the magazine show continues to deliver its promise by showcasing more inspiring stories and aspirational features.
"We really want to showcase the beauty of our country," explains Executive Producer Vanessa Verzosa. "The Philippines is really blessed with natural resources. And that's what we want to highlight in the show, inspiring Filipinos to appreciate and love our country."
Long before the "Love the Philippines!" campaign of the Department of Tourism has become controversial, there is already one magazine show that promotes love for the Philippines, titled IHeartPh.
Now on its 8th season, the magazine show continues to deliver its promise by showcasing more inspiring stories and aspirational features.
"We really want to showcase the beauty of our country," explains Executive Producer Vanessa Verzosa. "The Philippines is really blessed with natural resources. And that's what we want to highlight in the show, inspiring Filipinos to appreciate and love our country."
Piloted in 2018 on CNN Philippines, IHeartPh spreads good vibes here and abroad. In fact, it has been chosen by the Taiwanese government for its tourism promotion.
Serving as a regular TV program partner for Philippine promotion, the beauty of Taiwan has been showcased several times. The most recent of which is the "Love Fun Taiwan" campaign.
"We are proud that our show is appreciated outside the country," beams Verzosa. "Maybe, the reason why the Taiwanese government trusts us is that they see the direction of the show, which is really to promote inspiring stories and aspirational features. The show is aligned to their goal."
IHeartPH has gained the trust and support of big and small companies, global and local brands as well as famous and ordinary personalities in sharing their stories.
"Every story we do is unique and there's always a good takeaway, not only for the viewers but also for me!," shares program host Valerie Tan.
Tan gets to immerse herself in the many stories featured in the program. She enjoys every feature. One of the features she immensely enjoyed was her visit to the Amis tribe, the largest indigenous ethnic group in Taiwan.
There she got a glimpse of how they live, fish, cook, and even dance! "It's interesting to note that just like us Filipinos, they love to sing and dance!"
"Another memorable feature is the rags to riches story of a member of an essential oil company. This proves that your past doesn't define your future, and you can use the challenges you encountered to fuel you for success."
Tan adds that iHeartPh highlights these positive features with that Filipino touch.
"I love experiencing new things and going to new places," shares Tan. "But more than that, my most favorite part is meeting people from all walks of life, connecting with them, and sharing their stories to our viewers."
Eight seasons and counting, IHeartPh is here to stay in the heart of our Filipino viewers. True to its core, the program has been consistently uplifting the image of the Philippines and the Filipinos - spreading good vibes. The program advocates the love and appreciation of our country, helping the government to amplify its tourism campaign.
"There are way too many reasons why I love the Philippines!," volunteers Tan. "First, our beaches are the best in the world. We have a lot of natural resources and wonders.
Undoubtedly, there's still so much to explore. Second, Filipino cuisine! Anthony Bourdain himself said it when he referred to Cebu lechon as the 'best pig, ever'.
Lastly, the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people are unrivaled. Pinoys are usually kind and warm, and always carry a smile on our faces."
"Our commitment is to showcase world-class visual narratives to our viewers," says program director Jallawee Beritan. "We listen to our viewers because they deserve a program that does not only feed their senses but their soul."
"You can be assured you'll feel inspired after each episode," quips Tan. "No matter where our show takes us; at the end of the day, the Philippines will always be home," And IHeartPh will always be at the heart of every Filipino.
Produced by TV8 Media Productions, IHeartPh Season 8 airs this coming Sunday, July 16, 7 PM on CNN Philippines. Fresh episode every Sunday at 7 PM, with replays on Tuesdays at 4:30 PM.
