ABS-CBN thanks artists for support to network amid broadcast shutdown

ABS-CBN on Thursday sent a message of thanks to all artists who expressed their concern and support to the TV network after it was forced to shut down its broadcast operations in the absence of a valid franchise.

The company issued the remark after Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano hit out at Kapamilya celebrities who "cry injustice" and blame public servants when they lose their paychecks and yet miss the "fact" that there are grave issues against their network.

"By all means, let your voices of support for your network be heard. But if you really want to join the public debate, find it in your indignation to also support due process and fact finding as this issue is imbued with public interest — not just yours," Cayetano said.

ABS-CBN stars like Coco Martin and Kim Chiu have been vocal about their disaffection about the halt of the network's free television broadcast operations.

In expressing its gratitude to its artists, ABS-CBN said:  "ABS-CBN is grateful to all the artists who used their platform to express their love and concern for the network amid the challenges it is currently facing." 

"You wholeheartedly and courageously spoke up about your concerns, even if you are aware that not everyone would agree with you. We feel your love not only for our company and our colleagues, but for all the people we serve," it added.

ABS-CBN said it respects the different opinions of people, even those that may disagree with the thoughts of its own artists.

"But there is no need to say hurtful words, throw insults, and spread disinformation. We hope that respect and understanding will prevail especially at this critical time," the company said.

The House of Representatives on Wednesday approved both at the committee level and on second reading House Bill 6732, which grants ABS-CBN a provisional franchise until October 31, 2020.

The provisional franchise will allow ABS-CBN to operate as the House and the Senate deliberate on issues that surround the renewal of the broadcast company's previous franchise, and decide whether or not it should be given another 25-year franchise.

Cayetano himself and seven other lawmakers authored the bill, which only needs the third and final approval of the House before it could be sent to the Senate and then to President Rodrigo Duterte for their own concurrence. — RSJ, GMA News