Abs Cbn Election Results 2022

abs cbn franchise vote figure elections expert weighs

The 2022 Philippine general election marked a significant moment for ABS-CBN, even though the broadcast network itself was not directly on the ballot. Having been denied a franchise renewal in 2020, the media giant’s future was intrinsically tied to the outcome of the elections, particularly concerning its ability to potentially regain its free-to-air broadcasting license.

The presidential race held the most weight for ABS-CBN. The frontrunner, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., carried the baggage of his father’s regime, during which ABS-CBN was famously shut down. His running mate, Sara Duterte, daughter of the outgoing President Rodrigo Duterte, also had a complex relationship with the network. President Duterte had been openly critical of ABS-CBN, citing alleged biased reporting and unpaid taxes as reasons for his opposition to their franchise renewal. The election of Marcos Jr. and Duterte was a major blow to hopes of a swift return to free-to-air broadcasting for the network.

While the outcome of the presidential election was discouraging, the results of other races offered some glimmers of hope, albeit faint ones. Several candidates who publicly supported ABS-CBN and its employees, or at least expressed openness to reconsidering the franchise issue, won seats in the Senate and House of Representatives. However, their numbers were not significant enough to guarantee a reversal of the previous administration’s stance. Any potential legislative action to grant ABS-CBN a new franchise would require significant support, and the prevailing political climate remained challenging.

In the aftermath of the election, ABS-CBN maintained a measured and professional approach. The network congratulated the winning candidates and reiterated its commitment to serving the Filipino public through its remaining platforms, including digital media, cable channels, and international broadcasts. They also emphasized their willingness to work with the new administration.

Despite the unfavorable outcome of the election, ABS-CBN’s resolve to adapt and innovate remained evident. The network continued to invest in its digital presence, expanding its content offerings on platforms like YouTube and iWantTFC. They also forged partnerships with other media companies to produce and distribute content, showcasing their ability to navigate the changing media landscape. The 2022 election results, while not directly involving ABS-CBN, served as a crucial inflection point, forcing the network to further solidify its alternative strategies for reaching its audience and sustaining its operations in the absence of a broadcasting franchise.

The road ahead for ABS-CBN remains uncertain. While the election of Marcos Jr. presents significant challenges, the network’s resilience and adaptability will be crucial in determining its future role in the Philippine media landscape. The fight for a new franchise is far from over, and ABS-CBN’s ability to advocate for its cause, while simultaneously serving its audience through alternative platforms, will be critical in the coming years.