Noli de Castro returns to screen after medical hiatus for ‘Kababalaghan 8’

After nearly a year away, Kabayan returns to host his iconic Halloween special.

After nearly a year away from “TV Patrol” following surgery in December 2025, Noli “Kabayan” de Castro is returning to the screen to host “Kababalaghan 8: Pagkagat ng Dilim,” airing on October 31 across all Kapamilya platforms.

Known for his authoritative delivery on “TV Patrol” and his chilling narration of supernatural stories on “Magandang Gabi… Bayan,” De Castro has built a career that extends beyond the stories that made him a Halloween favorite. His contributions to journalism, public service, and television have also earned recognition from industry groups, government agencies, and civic organizations.

Here are some of the honors associated with his long-running career.

1. Anak TV Hall of Fame

In December 2024, De Castro was inducted into the Anak TV Hall of Fame, recognizing his longstanding contribution to television and his reach across generations of Filipino viewers.

The honor was part of the 2024 Anak TV Awards, which recognized ABS-CBN programs and personalities for child-sensitive content and positive role modeling.

2. KBP Golden Dove Awards

De Castro’s broadcasting career has also earned recognition from the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP). According to a government-published biography, his career citations include the 7th and 9th KBP Golden Dove Awards.

The awards recognize achievements in Philippine broadcasting, honoring work in radio and television.

3. Catholic Mass Media Awards

The veteran broadcaster has also received recognition from the Catholic Mass Media Awards, which honors media work that serves the public good and promotes values through responsible communication.

The citations form part of a broader list of honors De Castro has received from media organizations, government agencies, and civic groups.

4. Recognition from public-service organizations

De Castro has also received citations from organizations including the Dangerous Drugs Board, the Philippine National Police, the Crusade Against Violence, the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, and the Rotary Club of Manila.

These honors reflect the public-service dimension of his broadcasting career, which has included reporting on social issues and connecting Filipinos with government agencies and other sources of assistance.

5. International recognition for ‘KBYN: Kaagapay ng Bayan’

De Castro’s public-affairs work has also earned international recognition. “KBYN: Kaagapay ng Bayan,” the ABS-CBN public-affairs program associated with him, received a Bronze Award for Best Public Affairs Program at the New York Festivals TV & Film Awards, according to Tatler Asia.

The award went to the program, rather than to De Castro individually, highlighting the reach of the public-service journalism associated with his career.

READ: