Mike Enriquez, a revered figure in Philippine media and a mainstay of GMA News, has passed away at the age of 71. Born Miguel “Mike” Castro Enriquez, he would have turned 72 on September 29. His wife Lizabeth “Baby” Yumping survives him.
Enriquez was an iconic figure at GMA Network, anchoring its prime news show, “24 Oras.” He was also the face behind the investigative show “Imbestigador.” Within the industry, he was fondly known as “Booma,” and his catchphrases like “Excuse me po!” and “Hindi ko kayo tatantanan!” became his hallmark. Before his prominence in news, he was recognized as radio disc jockey “Baby Michael.”
Beyond anchoring, Enriquez played a key role in GMA’s radio operations, overseeing dzBB, and was also a broadcast management professor at De La Salle University, his alma mater.
His passing was announced on “24 Oras” by co-anchor Mel Tiangco, who said, “Malungkot pong ibinabalita ng GMA Network ang pagpanaw ng aming minamahal na Kapuso at kaibigan, si Mike Enriquez… Si Mike po ay halos dalawang dekada natin nakasama gabi-gabi dito sa ’24-Oras’…”
Despite battling health issues, including a kidney transplant in 2021 and a heart bypass in 2018, Enriquez remained dedicated to his craft until his last moments. His resilience had even led to dispelling death rumors last year, clarified by fellow broadcaster Arnold Clavio.
The network and the nation mourn the loss of a media icon whose dedication to the craft will continue to inspire generations. The cause of his passing has not been specified.
