GMA News Online, Pinoy MD sa Dobol B bag PHA awards

For the third consecutive year, GMA News Online and Pinoy MD sa Dobol B host Connie Sison received accolades from the Philippine Heart Association (PHA) for reporting accurate and timely heart health news. 

GMA News Online received three awards while Pinoy MD bagged two.

The PHA on Wednesday night gave special recognition to GMA News Online for covering the association for at least ten years. 

GNO Health beat reporter Giselle Ombay also received the Best News Story award for her special report “Mending a Broken Heart in the Philippines.”

READ: Mending a Broken Heart in the Philippines and How Much It Costs

Meanwhile, GNO news editor Amita Legaspi got the Behind the Scenes award for lending her expertise to advocate and edit stories related to heart health. 

PHA likewise recognized the individual contributions of Sison and Mackay Quadra, executive producer of Pinoy MD.

“The PHA Media Awards is not only into mere recognition, but a tribute, an accolade that is bestowed on our dynamic and passionate media partners who have provided the PHA’s lay advocacy non-stop mileage, and helped us expand our horizon, in their professional and personal capacities,” PHA director Dr. Luigi Segundo said.

Awardees were evaluated based on several factors including the depth and quality of substance, the significance of the content, impact on audiences and readers, the breadth and consistency of coverage, and the quality of the relationship fostered with the PHA.

The PHA Media Awards Night was held at the Marquee Tent of EDSA Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City.

During the awards nights, PHA also introduced its mascot "Karjo Mahusay."

PHA said the term Karjo was coined from the word “cardio,” which is related to cardiovascular and cardiologist, while “mahusay,” means “greatness” or “efficiency.” 

Karjo Mahusay portrays a passionate advocate for cardiovascular health who is setting an example in the medical community by embracing a lifestyle that reflects his professional advice. 

“Through these efforts, Karjo Mahusay continues to inspire a proactive approach to health, underscoring that small lifestyle changes can have a lasting impact on well-being,” PHA president Dr. Rodney Jimenez said.

The PHA also said it revamped its program Usapang Puso sa Puso by introducing a new format designed to attract more audience.

From a two-hour session, it is now a 30-minute podcast-style experience that fits into the fast-paced lives of modern audiences.

“In an era where attention span is shorter, and information is always within reach, Usapang Puso sa Puso now delivers impactful insights in a condensed style. By adopting a podcast format, the PHA aligned with current digital trends, making it easy for listeners to tune in on the go—whether commuting, working out, or relaxing,” PHA advocacy chair Dr. Avenilo Aventura said. 

PHA said the new UPP is more than just a podcast, as it is a “bridge” between generations, combining expert advice with care and accessibility that appeals to Filipinos.

“With each 30-minute episode, listeners will find a pulse—a steady beat of hope, knowledge, and empowerment for healthier, happier lives,” Aventura added. 

The PHA also said it will level up its social media presence through a mix of informative posts on its Facebook page, engaging videos on Facebook, Youtube, and Tiktok, and more interactive contents.

The social media relaunch will feature expert advice from healthcare professionals, success stories from individuals who have improved their heart health, and tips for maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle. 

The PHA said it aims to create an online community dedicated to promoting heart health.— BAP/AOL, GMA Integrated News