Gerald Santos testifies about 2005 rape by former GMA director

Singer-actor Gerald Santos revealed during a Senate hearing on Monday that he was raped by a former GMA musical director when he was 15 years old in 2005.

In his testimony, Santos shared his fear of retaliation and the challenges he faced after the incident due to 'fear' and 'embarrassment', leading him to seek release from GMA Artist Center in 2010.

GMA Network acknowledged their actions following Santos's formal complaint in 2010 but noted that they were unaware of the rape allegations until recently, emphasizing their commitment to addressing abuse within their network.

Santos clarified on Monday through his Facebook page and with supporting documentation that he requested release from GMA due to lack of work opportunities at the time and not because of any dispute over his initial complaint.

The singer-actor reiterated that it was he who requested an early release from his management contract in 2010, sharing a photo of his letter addressed to GMA's CEO asking for his release.