After more than two decades on television, GMA Network’s public-service program “Wish Ko Lang!” aired its final episode on Saturday, September 5.
During the show’s closing spiels, longtime host Vicky Morales expressed her gratitude to the viewers and supporters who had remained with the program throughout its run.
“Mga Kapuso, maraming salamat sa inyong pag-suporta sa Wish Ko Lang sa nakalipas na dalawampu’t-limang taon. Lagi po nating tandaan, hangga’t hindi tayo napapagod humiling at maniwala, hindi tayo mapapagod sa buhay,” Vicky said in her closing message.
“Wish Ko Lang!” first premiered on June 29, 2002, as part of GMA Network’s Saturday afternoon programming. Bernadette Sembrano served as its original host, with the program initially centered on helping deserving Filipinos fulfill their wishes and receive much-needed assistance.
Following Sembrano’s departure from GMA Network and subsequent move to ABS-CBN, Vicky Morales assumed hosting duties in 2004. She eventually became closely associated with the program and helped cement its reputation as one of GMA Public Affairs’ notable public-service offerings.
Over the years, “Wish Ko Lang!” underwent several changes in format. It was eventually developed into a drama anthology, giving the program an opportunity to present dramatized stories inspired by real-life experiences while continuing to incorporate its public-service mission.
The program concluded its initial run on February 15, 2020, after producing 983 episodes. It returned to television on July 11, 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, featuring fresh episodes that placed renewed attention on inspirational stories and wish-granting.
“Wish Ko Lang!” later celebrated its 20th anniversary, with GMA Network highlighting the program’s role in creating memorable and life-changing experiences for Filipinos both in the country and overseas. The show also adapted to changing viewer habits by allowing people to reach out and submit requests through social media in addition to its traditional letter-based submissions.
The program is expected to be replaced by “Barangay Love Stories,” the television adaptation of the popular radio program of Barangay LS, GMA Network’s FM radio station.
“Barangay Love Stories” is scheduled to premiere on Saturday, September 12, at 4 p.m.