On Friday, July 3, 2020, actress Liza Soberano shared her thoughts on the release of contracts of ABS-CBN’s talents and employees amid the Cease and Desist Orders by the National Telecommunications and Commissions and the delay of the Network’s franchise renewal.
The actress posted a thread of her sentiments on Twitter. “I received what was probably one of the most heartbreaking text messages from one of our leaders in ABS-CBN. The little fan girl in me is probably crying so hard right now. I grew up watching the kapamilya channel and almost all of their telseryes.
“I will forever be grateful towards this company, who has instilled values in me through their programs and gave me the opportunity to inspire those who watch and support my projects.
To all of my loving supporters, if it’s not too much to ask, and if ABS-CBN has ever positively impacted you in one way or another, I humbly ask that you please pray for the company and all of its employees.
“To the congressmen and women who are tasked to decide upon our franchise renewal, please, open up your hearts and hear our voices. ABS-CBN has always and will always be in service of the Filipino people.#kapamilyaforever #IbalikAngABSCBN”
In a Pep.ph article, ABS-CBN Management reportedly had an emergency Zoom meeting last Wednesday, July 1,2020, where it was decided that the production of ABS-CBN Current affairs programs would cease. With this, the management also terminated the non-compete clause in their employees’ contracts. Through this, it will allow their employees to have opportunities to apply elsewhere even with their rival network.
The Network has been losing money since it was shut down on May 5. This was confirmed in a tweet from ABS-CBN News via Tarra Quismundo, ABS-CBN News head Ging Reyes said the network is losing 35 million per day. In accordance with a report employees agreed to receive just half of their paychecks to help the Network continue its operations.
But then, it was cut off into 25% or cash assistance due to the continued loss of finances. ABS-CBN Current Affairs writer and producer Nick Villavecer also confirmed the news via a tweet Last Wednesday, July 1.
As there was a second shut down ordered by the National Telecommunications Communications to cease their operations via TV Plus and Sky Direct, the network was forced to let go of their employees to let them have employment opportunities elsewhere.
