GMA to pursue libel case despite AGB, ABS-CBN fingerpointing

The Kapuso network will continue its plan to file a lawsuit against the Kapamilya network in connection with the alleged claim of DZMM reporter Junrie Hidalgo that GMA-7 was behind the “cheating scam" of AGB Nielsen’s ratings in Bacolod. DZMM and ABS-CBN later claimed that the information about GMA-7’s involvement came from Maya Reforma, general manager of AGB Nielsen Media Research Philippines. AGB’s lawyer Atty. Rivera, however, denied the DZMM report, saying that their investigation was still underway and that there was insufficient evidence to prove actual cheating in Bacolod. ABS-CBN stood by their earlier statement that AGB got GMA-7 involved in the issue. Nonetheless, GMA-7 asserted that the damaging accusations came from ABS-CBN and not from AGB. GMA-7’s Atty. Dick Perez, Vice President for Legal says: “Dini-distort ng ABS ang sinasabi ng AGB. Walang sinasabi ang AGB na ang GMA ang nasa likod ng dayaan umano sa ratings. Kung pakikinggan mo ang buong interview ni Maya [Reforma], ang ibig sabihin niya ay nakatanggap sila ng alegasyon laban sa GMA-7 at sa kanilang imbestigasyon, wala silang nakitang epekto sa data nila ukol sa ratings." ABS-CBN has warned AGB that they will file a case of contempt against them. This is in regard to AGB’s continued release of ratings data despite a Temporary Restraining Order issued against the media research group. AGB refuses to comment on this matter for now, but Atty. Rivera argued that the TRO only covered Bacolod City and not the whole country. - Philippine Entertainment Portal