Expanding ABSCBN is Not Yet Possible At This Time

Amidst the things that happened to the networks, for the meantime, the audiences who hope to see more of their beloved ABS-CBN shows airing on TV5 after the latest partnership of the two networks will have to moderate their hopes.

In view of this, TV5 Network Inc. and Manuel V. Pangilinan, chairman of Cignal TV, told The STAR that before an extended alliance between the two networks or more ABS-CBN shows airing on TV5 there are so many things to remember.

For now, the ABS-CBN and TV5 collaboration is only for the two shows that were revealed last week. ABSCBN’s ASAP Natin ‘To” and “FPJ: Da King” musical variety shows began airing yesterday on TV5. Robert Galang, president and CEO of TV5 and Cignal, said last week that collaboration between Cignal, TV5, Brightlight Productions, and the network marks the beginning of greater cooperation between our various players in the industry and begins a new era of partnership.

Pangilinan shared that while TV5 is open to a block-time contract with ABS-CBN, owing to political reasons, it is also wary. For them, setting politics aside, they’re prepared to chat if they try to block time. Since they don’t have a lot of content for movies. To them, it’s up. Politically, of course, the President may suggest something, but we are all hesitant.

Along with the extension of ABS-franchise CBN’s rejected last year by lawmakers, Pangilinan shared in July that workers who would be laid off are welcome to join TV5 as the network is reviving its production of entertainment content and will require innovative people, talents, directors, scriptwriters, and cameramen.

In compliance with a cease and desist order issued by the National Telecommunications Commission after the expiry of the network’s franchise, ABS-CBN went off the air on May 5^th of 2020. Looking back, On July 10, the House Committee on Legislative Franchises rejected a request by the network for a new franchise.

Morever, since then, via numerous subscription platforms, the media giant has syndicated the programming and runs other companies that do not need a regulatory franchise, such as worldwide licensing and distribution, digital, and cable TV.

Although in October last year, ABS-CBN was able to reach an agreement with Eddie Villanueva’s Zoe Broadcasting Network Inc. that allowed some of its entertainment shows to return to free TV via A2Z Channel 11.