“Dream team” was how Senator Raffy Tulfo initially described the now-terminated partnership of the Kapamilya and Kapatid network that lasted for only three weeks – no thanks to the sector that refused to see the good things it will bring.
Legal experts have already said the deal is aboveboard. ABS-CBN was going to acquire a small stake in TV5, which will continue to make the decisions and operate as a broadcaster.
Then Congress intervened. They called a hearing. A few days after, both media companies decided to terminate their investment agreement.
According to a report in Bilyonaryo.com, TV5’s Manny Pangilinan or MVP was allegedly warned by Congress leaders that he could lose the franchise of PLDT and Meralco if he pursues the deal with ABS-CBN.
The same report claimed that MVP initially wanted time to conduct backroom talks with Congress to thresh out the issues, but he reportedly made a quick decision when he received the “chilling message from powerful members of Congress.”
The deal hit a snag, fueled by pressure from the government. As Terry Ridon of Infrawatch said, “This (ABS-CBN and TV5 deal) also serves as a warning to business: that free enterprise will only be free if businesses align with the politics of those in power.”
Even with the new leaders seated and ABS-CBN getting cleared from baseless accusations thrown at them, they are still in hot water as critics of the past administration continue to be on high alert with their every move preventing the company from serving Filipinos and moving forward.
In marathon congressional hearings in 2020, government agencies like the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the National Telecommunications Commission, the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, the Department of Justice, and other agencies have said ABS-CBN did not incur violations.
The new government ran on a platform of “Bagong Umaga.” This would have been a good opportunity for the administration to support the television industry and prove that it has no axe to grind against anyone.
It could have supported the aborted deal between ABS-CBN and TV5 that had the best interest of Filipino viewers, industry players, and business advertisers at the forefront.
No wonder people expressed their disappointment on social media when the deal was scuttled. They were looking forward to more local shows. They have seen how ABS-CBN has hit bottom and rising again amidst all the challenges.
So what’s next?
GMA Network will continue to be the dominant player in the broadcast industry. But real competition is needed to bring out the best in all players with the viewing public as the ultimate winner.
Another new player is coming in. The Villar-owned AMBS is set to launch AllTV with Willie Revillame and Toni Gonzaga as among the newly-recruited stars. But it will take them time to learn the ropes and give audiences a good program line-up.
As for ABS-CBN, their hearts may be broken but not their will to survive. They relentlessly find ways to serve the Filipino audience. When one door closes, another one opens. And that is how they have shown their resiliency – partnering with different companies to bring the distinct Kapamilya content that has endeared many Filipino viewers for years.
With ABS-CBN quickly evolving into a content company, the limitless opportunities for online storytelling is something that we should not forget and take lightly. For many, it certainly deserves a platform to showcase the Filipino talent.
In the meantime, we can continue to watch their programs on free TV channels like TV5. Had it been another company that decided to invest in TV5, would it raise howls from certain lawmakers? Will they put their noses in the deal? Maybe not.
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The ultimate multi-media star, singer, TV host and actress, Ms. Toni Gonzaga, and multi-awarded film director, scriptwriter and producer Paul Soriano, have signed a contract with the Villar Group’s Advanced Media Broadcasting System Channel 2 (AMBS) on September 1.
Prime Asset Ventures’ Manuel Paolo Villar warmly welcomed to the Villar-owned TV network Ms. Gonzaga and Mr. Soriano as he reiterated their commitment to provide an elevated viewing experience for Filipinos.
“AMBS aims to redefine the broadcast media industry with quality TV programs and exciting entertainment shows that will focus on giving our viewers new TV experiences,” Villar said.
AMBS President Maribeth Tolentino signed the contract with the top showbiz personalities during a ceremony held at Mella Hotel in Las Piñas.
“We are happy about the partnership with Ms. Toni Gonzaga and Mr. Paul Soriano. Our team is raring to work with them to give our viewers awesome shows to always look forward to,” she said.
Toni said viewers can expect a more in-depth, yet interesting talk show from her production. “You will be surprised with what we have in store for all of you,” she said.