The stories Filipinos don’t skip

Posted by ReyFort Media

“Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho” (KMJS) has sustained its relevance by remaining anchored in stories that inform, connect and resonate with Filipino audiences.

For more than two decades, the program has been a fixture in Filipino households, translating viral moments, public service reports, emotional reunions and in-depth interviews with newsmakers and influential figures into accessible and meaningful television.

In 2025, KMJS sharpened its editorial focus, placing greater emphasis on investigative reporting that examined community issues and allegations of corruption with depth and accountability. Despite competing against lighter entertainment fare on Sunday nights, the program continued to draw viewers, with ratings and digital engagement underscoring sustained public interest in stories that help audiences understand the realities shaping their lives.

From January to December 2025, KMJS once again emerged as the most watched program in the Philippines. Data from Nielsen TV Audience Measurement showed that the program recorded a combined GMA and GTV people rating of 12.8 percent in Total Philippines and 14.4 percent in Urban Philippines.

The performance secured KMJS the distinction of being the number one program nationwide for the second consecutive year, following its top ranking in 2024. Beyond the figures, the milestone reflected the program’s continued credibility and the enduring trust of Filipino viewers.

While television remains its primary platform, KMJS has expanded its reach far beyond its Sunday night broadcast, connecting with Filipinos across the globe through digital platforms.

In 2025, KMJS videos generated a total of 4.7 billion views across social media, including 1.6 billion views on Facebook, 1.8 billion on TikTok and 1.3 billion on YouTube. As of January 2026, the program had amassed a combined following of more than 45 million across platforms.

“We owe our ratings and metrics to our loyal viewers and followers,” said Jessica. “Maraming, maraming salamat po. 2025 was KMJS’ 20th and most challenging year. We would not have made it without your loyalty and support.”

Jessica Soho marked her 40th year in broadcasting in 2025, a milestone that coincided with one of the most sustained and demanding periods of investigative reporting in her career. While investigative journalism has long been a cornerstone of her work, 2025 stood out for the scope and consistency of field reports she personally led nationwide.

During the year, Soho covered major earthquakes in Cebu and Davao, documented the devastation caused by Typhoons Tino and Uwan and reported from mining sites in Rizal and Palawan that have long faced opposition from local communities. She also examined dredging activities linked to shoreline erosion in Zambales, reinforcing her commitment to ground-level reporting on issues with long-term consequences.

Central to this investigative push was the “Katakot-takot na Kurakot” series, which reached its 16th installment as of this writing. The series, which examined alleged corruption and anomalous government projects, became a focal point of public discourse and the most watched KMJS segment online in 2025, with more than 90 million views across Facebook, YouTube and TikTok.

Extended interviews from the series were later adapted into the “KMJS Podcast,” where audiences engaged with long-form discussions on pressing national issues. The response reaffirmed a continued appetite for serious journalism and underscored Soho’s standing as a trusted voice on matters of public interest.

In 2025, Soho’s influence and credibility were further reflected in invitations to speak at major academic and leadership gatherings, including the “National Schools Press Conference” and the “Global Youth Summit.” She also served as commencement speaker at the “University of the Philippines Diliman,” where excerpts from her address circulated widely on social media and resonated with a younger generation.

Public trust in Soho was likewise affirmed through several recognitions, including her being inducted as one of six inaugural members of the “Rolling Stone Hall of Fame.”

Throughout 2025, KMJS used its platform not only to report on current issues but to provide context and understanding around stories affecting everyday Filipino life. By treating storytelling as a means of awareness and accountability, the program continued to serve as a space for national conversation.

“We promise to continue telling the stories of our country and our people, the best way we possibly can. We have always believed in the power of stories to not only inspire and change lives, but to shine a light on issues that our people need to know,” Jessica said.

“Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho” airs every Sunday at 8:20 pm on GMA 7. (Malaya Entertainment News)