PHILIPPINES – Broadcasting giant ABS-CBN has announced the launch of a new noontime show called Pilipinas, Win na Win!, replacing Wowowee, whose main talent has been off the air since May. Wowowee host Willie Revillame’s absence has prompted the slide of the show’s ratings, a difference made more apparent with the strength of the talent showdown Showtime in the preceding timeslot.
Pilipinas, Win na Win! will be hosted by Robin Padilla, Mariel Rodriguez, Valerie Concepcion, Pokwang, and Kris Aquino—all with positive track records in hosting daytime shows. Director Johnny Manahan, creative director Bobot Mortiz, business unit head Jay Montelibano, and executive producers Phoebe Anievas and Rancy Recato will manage the program. The show, originally announced as Pilipinas For The Win, will start airing on Saturday, July 31, following Kris Aquino’s return from the United States.
The new show’s format is not expected to deviate from its predecessor’s formula. In the official statement made by ABS-CBN Corporate Communications Head Bong Osorio, it was declared that Pilipinas, Win na Win! “is a game and variety show that will surely bring joy, energy and hope to Filipinos all over the world.”
As of July 20 to 21, Showtime and noontime rival Eat Bulaga! have enjoyed parity in the Kantar Media nationwide ratings, while the AGB Nielsen figures for the same period show Eat Bulaga! leading in Mega Manila households. It has been rumored that advertisers have pulled out of Wowowee in recent months because of the weakened performance of the former daytime force.
Observers have noted that Wowowee’s last episode falls on the 31st anniversary of Eat Bulaga!, marking both longevity and the end of an era. As for Revillame, he will be back on the boob tube in due time. He has been informed about the developments through his manager and a new program for him is in the works.
