Stars immortalized on Walk of Fame

Carmina Villarroel

For the latest batch of artists who received a star on GMA 7’s Walk of Fame, having their names engraved on walkways within the network’s complex serves as a reminder to continue working harder and honing their craft.

“I have been with GMA since I was 5 years old, so it feels heartening to have my own star,” Miguel Tanfelix, a product of the talent search “Starstruck Kids,” said at a press conference following his induction to the Walk of Fame. “But it also means that we have to be responsible and set a good example to future Kapuso talents.

Other celebrities and television personalities given such recognition included Aicelle Santos, Ai-Ai delas Alas, Kris Bernal, Yasmien Kurdi, Bianca Umali, Roi Vinzon, Gabby Concepcion, Megan Young, Iya Villania, Dion Ignacio and Atom Araullo.

Aicelle said she was shocked when she received a text message, telling her that she will be one of the newest honorees.

“As someone who started out as a singer who has never imagined I would be where I am right now, this is such a big deal. I am so thankful and feel deeply honored that all our efforts and hard work are being recognized,” she said.

Kris Bernal

Yasmien, on the other hand, pointed out that the workers who toil behind the scenes are just as deserving of the distinction. “It just so happens that we’re the network’s faces … that we’re the ones being seen onscreen. So, I want to dedicate this to everyone who works behind the cameras to make sure everything is in order for us,” she said.

Meanwhile, Kris teased her show biz colleagues that they all have to remain a Kapuso, now that their names can be seen on the Walk of Fame. “Wala nang lipat!” she quipped, laughing. “I feel valued and important. Of all the artists here, they thought of me and chose me. It means I’m being appreciated.

The Kapuso Walk of Fame is a brainchild of the late starmaker and television host German Moreno, who spearheaded the project in 2014.

“The artists we choose to put on the Walk of Fame touch lives and inspire people,” GMA Network chair Felipe Gozon said in a speech. “The personalities should not only excel in his or her craft, but should also have a good public image.”—ALLAN POLICARPIO

Bianca Umali

Miguel Tanfelix

Aicelle Santos