The content partnership between ABS-CBN and TV5 is on the brink of ending after TV5 issued a formal notice of termination over what it claims are unpaid advertising revenue shares — a development that has prompted both networks to release statements explaining their sides as the dispute unfolds.
ABS-CBN confirmed on December 4 that it received TV5’s termination notice for their TV Content Supply Agreement, the deal that allowed Kapamilya programs to air on TV5 since the loss of ABS-CBN’s broadcast franchise in 2020. In its statement, ABS-CBN expressed regret over the timing of the notice, describing it as a setback occurring “at a critical juncture” of the company’s recovery.
The Kapamilya network acknowledged that TV5 had made claims regarding unpaid obligations but stressed that “the amounts and manner of the claims remain disputed.” ABS-CBN maintained that it has never deliberately delayed payment, explaining that its financial challenges stem from the shutdown of its free-to-air operations after government regulators ordered it off the air in 2020 and Congress denied its franchise renewal. The company said it is committed to addressing obligations “urgently within the 30-day period” given by TV5.
Meanwhile, TV5 released a separate statement detailing the reason behind the termination letter: ABS-CBN’s alleged repeated failure to remit the network’s share of ad revenues. According to TV5, these payments were essential for meeting its commitments to employees, talents, and partner producers. The Kapatid network emphasized that despite understanding ABS-CBN’s hardships following its franchise loss, it “cannot continue absorbing the impact” of delayed or missing payments.
TV5 also noted that it opened its platform to ABS-CBN programs at a time when the Kapamilya network’s displacement left many shows and workers without a home. The partnership allowed ABS-CBN content to remain accessible to free-to-air viewers, benefiting both audiences and displaced productions. However, TV5 said the financial issues have reached a point where the contract can no longer be sustained.
The looming end of the deal could lead to the removal of Kapamilya programs currently airing on TV5 once the contract fully lapses. Industry observers note that the partnership has been a key strategy for ABS-CBN to maintain nationwide reach and keep its entertainment lineup visible on traditional television.
Despite the uncertainty, ABS-CBN assured its audiences that it would “find ways to reach viewers” should the partnership ultimately be terminated, pointing to the company’s efforts in recent years to distribute its content across cable, digital, and streaming platforms.
With both networks firm in their positions — ABS-CBN contesting the amounts owed and TV5 insisting on immediate settlement — the next few weeks will be crucial. The outcome is expected to influence not only the future of the two media giants but also the direction of Philippine television programming in 2026.
