Longtime ABS-CBN promotions executive Vaughn Johnson Hautea is among 200 employees affected by the network’s latest retrenchment, prompting an outpouring of support from Kapamilya stars who have worked with him over the years.

ABS-CBN Films creative associate Hyro Aguinaldo and ‘Pinoy Big Brother’ business unit head Raymund Dizon have also shared posts about the retrenchment.

Hautea, who spent 17 years with ABS-CBN, confirmed his departure in an emotional Instagram post, saying the news came as a surprise and left him without an immediate plan for what to do next.

“It is an immeasurable pain to accept that I am one of the 200 employees to be retrenched. It is super painful, but I am forever grateful for 17 fruitful and challenging years with ABS-CBN,” he wrote. “This came as a surprise, so I don’t have any backup plans right now because I always thought my role was functional and vital. But things are just the way they are, and I am moving forward with a heavy yet grateful heart.”

In the same post, Hautea appealed to industry colleagues for employment opportunities as he prepares to leave the company he considered his second home.

“Sana po ay i-hire ninyo ako. I don’t know yet what I am going to do after leaving the company that I have considered home for the last two decades,” he said. “This heavy experience for me is definitely not a question of my worth, because I know what I am capable of, but rather a sad reality that I will soon no longer be in touch with the people whom I consider family — my Kapamilyas.”

Despite the difficult news, Hautea expressed hope for ABS-CBN’s future, particularly iWant, which he said he had been part of since its 2018 launch. He encouraged viewers to continue supporting the platform and its shows to help employees who remain with the company.

Hautea also shared an emotional video of himself telling his father about the retrenchment and thanked him for his support.

“Papa, thank you for the warmth of your love. This video will always be a reminder for us to move forward to a brighter future together,” he wrote.

Hautea’s post drew messages from several ABS-CBN personalities, including Melai Cantiveros, who appealed for his return.

“Marssssa di ko alam kung masaya pa ang Promo ko kung wala ka Mars marssss pls @abscbn ibalik nyu si mars sa amin sobra cyang the best huhuhu,” Melai commented.

Jodi Sta. Maria wrote, “Vaughn, sending super tight hugs…praying for you,” while Shaina Magdayao sent a message of comfort: “Mahigpit na yakap, dear Vaughn.”

Empress Schuck also encouraged Hautea as he faces an uncertain career transition.

“Vaughhhn di kumpleto pag wala ka.. kapit lang! Im sure magkaka work ka ulit super galing mo kaya!” she wrote.

Elijah Canlas, Alexa Ilacad, Brent Manalo, River Joseph, Alora Sasam, Kaori Oinuma and AC Bonifacio were among the other personalities who expressed support.

Hautea said he needed time and space to process the news as he prepares for life after ABS-CBN.