Atom Araullo leaves ABS-CBN, returns to GMA Network

MANILA, Philippines - (UPDATED) After more than a decade of working for ABS-CBN, Alfonso Tomas "Atom" Araullo announced that he is leaving the network for emerging opportunities. But soon after the 34-year-old journalist made the announcement, reports that he will return to the rival network GMA-7 surfaced.

Atom Araullo's daring coverage of super typhoon Yolanda in Tacloban in 2013
Atom Araullo's daring coverage of super typhoon Yolanda in 2013. Photo Credit: ABS-CBN News
UPDATE: GMA's 24 Oras program officially revealed on Thursday the newest member of their news organization and it's Atom Araullo.

In a statement, Araullo said: "Although I am taking a new path, I have nothing but respect and gratitude for the company that helped me become the journalist I am today," he said in a statement. "To all the hardworking men and women of ABS-CBN, maraming maraming salamat.”


ABS-CBN: Atom will always remain a Kapamilya

“ABS-CBN has allowed journalist Atom Araullo to explore new interests in film, broadcast, and digital media outside of the company.

“Atom says the training and exposure he got from the network as reporter and TV host have equipped him to try out other opportunities in the media industry here and abroad.

“ABS-CBN wishes Atom all the best in his future endeavors.

“He will always remain a Kapamilya."


Working SOON in GMA7

Although GMA 7 has not neither confirmed nor denied the reports, Kapuso broadcast journalists Arnold Clavio and Mike Enriquez dropped hints that Araullo will be working under the GMA News and Public Affairs soon during their morning radio program in DZBB.
"Sino? Clue: News personality na may letrang "A" ang pangalan at apelyido."

UPDATE: Atom Araullo was spotted at GMA Network building lobby in Quezon City. (



Netizens' mixed reactions on Atom's big move

While many netizens felt sad that they will no longer see Araullo in ABS-CBN shows, several netizens expressed their support on Araullo’s alleged transfer to the Kapuso network.

“Now you are free to voice out your political opinion without repression. We know you are standing by your principles & convictions. Salute,” @ruthboa15 tweeted.

“So you're transferring?! Good luck! Am a GMA fan when it comes to news & docus! They're the best!” @teresitatuazon1 commented.

Twitter user 새시|| DKxDx wrote: “I love you Atom! And happy ako sa decision mo. Yung fairness at makatotohanang pagbabalita dapat. Hahaha. Pag news and current event GMA ako.”

The legacy

Araullo's career as a reporter started in ‘5 and Up’ (produced by Probe Productions, Inc.), which moved from ABC 5 (now TV5). His last show in GMA 7 before moving to ABS-CBN was ‘ATOMic Sports’ that aired over 24 Oras.

Araullo, who formerly worked as a reporter for TV Patrol, hosted “Umagang Kay Ganda” as well as “Red Alert.”

He was lauded by netizens on his daring coverage of super Typhoon Yolanda in November 2013. The video posted on ABS-CBN News' YouTube channel amassed by more than 2 million views and the 'buwis-buhay' reporter trended worldwide.


As a Kapamilya journalist, Araullo earned several awards including a bronze world medal at the New York Festivals Awards for his documentary “Warmer” in 2017, Best Public Service Program Host for “Red Alert” in 2017 and SUPER (Salute to Unparalled People, Endeavours and Resources) Awards in 2014.

He is set to appear in the upcoming movie “Citizen Jake, which is the comeback movie of acclaimed director Mike De Leon.

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-- Mini, The Summit Express



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