Arnold Clavio gives moving speech as he renews contract with GMA Network: ‘Renewed human being po ako’

Arnold Clavio remains a Kapuso.

The GMA Integrated News and Public Affairs broadcast journalist renewed his contract on Tuesday at the “Unang Hirit” studio at the GMA Network Center in Quezon City.

Clavio, also called Igan, has been a broadcast journalist for over 35 years.

After his signing, Igan gave a moving speech. Following the health challenges he experienced this year, Igan shared that he is “beyond words, forever grateful” to still be able to do what he loves.

“Hindi ko alam na mangyayari po ito, na magkasamasama pa rin tayo dahil dun sa nangyari,” he said.

“Nung time na nasa emergency room ako mag-isa, I’m ready to go. ‘Yun talaga ang naramdaman ko,” he added.

He also looked back on his post that said, “Death is something beautiful,” because he thought he had nothing left to prove. But now that he is still here, Igan said that this is a second chance and a mission from God.

“And I gladly accept it,” he said, adding that he will follow the Lord’s leadership.

According to Igan, Filipinos’ life expectancy is 70 years old and since he will be turning 60 next year, he still has 10 years left to prove to God. 

"Siya na bahala na maging boses pa rin ako ng mga balita," he said. “Napaka espesyal po nito kasi hindi lang po renewal of contract ‘tong nangyari eh. Talagang renewed spirit din po ako. Renewed human being po ako sa nangyari sa ‘kin.”

Present at the contract signing were GMA Network executives: President and Chief Executive Officer Gilberto R. Duavit Jr., Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Felipe S. Yalong, GMA Public Affairs First Vice President Nessa Valdellon, and GMA Public Affairs Vice President Arlene Carnay. Meanwhile, GMA Chairman Atty. Felipe L. Gozon recorded a video message.

Also present were: GMA Integrated News, Regional TV and Synergy Senior Vice President and Head Oliver Victor B. Amoroso, First Vice President for Radio Operations Group Glenn Allona, GMA Integrated News Vice President and Deputy Head for News Programs and Specials Michelle Seva, GMA Integrated News Assistant Vice President and Deputy Head for Integrated News Operations Division Queenie S. Dimapawi,  Corporate Affairs and Communications, Assistant Vice President for Corporate Communications Jojo Aquio, Assistant Vice President Joy Madrigal, and Assistant Vice President for Radio, News Operations and Programming Norilyn Temblor.

The program managers whom Igan worked with also showed their support, namely Mon Torres, Amy Sy-Gueverra, JC Rubio, and Sarah Gulle.

Connie Sison, GMA broadcaster and Igan’s co-host on “One on One: Walang Personalan,” also attended.

Igan’s wife Yna Clavio was also present.

At the event, the news anchor was honored with a video showcasing highlights from his decades-long career as a Kapuso. He was also given surprise video and written messages from his fellow broadcasters Vicky Morales, Pia Arcangel, Rhea Santos, Susan Enriquez, Bodgie Sonza, and JJ Jimeno.

Igan is a mainstay on “Unang Hirit.” He also hosts the radio show, “One on One: Walang Personalan” on DZBB with Connie Sison. He is best known for his major coverage and interviews with personalities including former Philippine Presidents Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Rodrigo Duterte, but he also shows his goofy and witty sides on air.

In mid-June, Igan suffered a hemorrhagic stroke. While driving home after playing golf, he felt a strange sensation on his right side and decided to stop at the nearest hospital.

Days after, he assured the public that he is out of danger. Aside from physical therapy, he also has to undergo rehabilitation.

Although he is not fully recovered yet, Igan went back to work in August as he believes being back on air will help him recover. “Parang iba ‘yung itutulong niyang energy sa akin para bumalik ‘yung dating ako,” he said on “24 Oras.”

“Unang Hirit,” the country’s longest-running morning show, is marking its 25th anniversary on December 6.

Arnold Clavio renewed his contract with GMA Network today at the Unang Hirit Studio.

This also marks his 25th year as an Unang Hirit host. @gmanews @gmanewsbreaking pic.twitter.com/4g8vFmFMOb

— Nika Roque (@rqNIKA) December 3, 2024

— CDC, GMA Integrated News