ABS-CBN Drops Franchise Bid, Focuses on Digital Content and Global Expansion

ABS-CBN, once a broadcasting giant in the Philippines, has made a bold and final decision, it’s no longer chasing a new franchise to return to free TV. Instead, the company is turning the page and focusing on what it does best: storytelling.

During its recent annual stockholders’ meeting held online, ABS-CBN President and CEO Carlo Katigbak shared that the company is not seeking a congressional franchise anymore. Even if granted one, Katigbak explained that it wouldn’t bring back the network’s old reach, since the frequencies it once held have already been reassigned to other media players. Simply put, without those frequencies, there’s no way to restore ABS-CBN’s former broadcast network.

So, what’s the plan moving forward?

Katigbak laid out a three-point direction for the company:

1. Focus on creating high-quality stories and content,
2. Strengthen partnerships with other TV and radio networks to share their content with more viewers,
3. Expand internationally by pushing their content and talents to a global market.

He noted that the future of entertainment is changing fast. Traditional television is no longer the center of the media universe, especially as the world becomes more digital and borderless. In this new landscape, content creators must compete globally, not just locally.

Despite the challenges of the past few years, including the shutdown of its broadcast operations in 2020 due to a denied franchise renewal, ABS-CBN has found ways to adapt. Katigbak expressed confidence that 2025 will be a year of real recovery for the company. A rebound in advertising, especially with upcoming election-related spending, is expected to give the business a much-needed boost.

The company’s digital platforms and international licensing for films and music are also showing promise. Lower debt levels, improved cost management, and stronger cash flow are helping the company rebuild. Since 2020, ABS-CBN has reduced its total debt from ₱21 billion to ₱16 billion, and that number is expected to drop further with the sale of a three-hectare property in Quezon City to Ayala Land.

ABS-CBN’s remaining operations will be consolidated into the ELJ Communications Center by mid-2026. Once that transition is complete, the land sale will be finalized by the end of that year.

While the network might never return to its old broadcast form, it’s clear ABS-CBN is not stepping away from the spotlight, it’s just finding a new stage.