ABS-CBN’s digital reach continues to expand

MANILA, Philippines — ABS-CBN’s digital presence continues to expand even after the company was denied a new franchise in July.

ABS-CBN Entertainment’s YouTube channel has marked a major milestone by becoming the first YouTube channel in the country to hit 30 million subscribers.

It is now the second most subscribed YouTube channel in Southeast Asia.

ABS-CBN Entertainment has also logged 38.8 billion lifetime views, ranking first among the most watched YouTube channels in the Philippines and 10th in the world as of October.

The channel carries Kapamilya Online Live, which livestreams fresh episodes of teleseryes and entertainment shows, public service programs, classics, and weekly digital talk shows.

“We want to thank every Kapamilya who helped us reach this milestone and those who have made it a habit to watch our programs, stars, and original offerings on the channel,” ABS-CBN digital content publishing head Richard Reynante said.

“We will continue to expand our digital presence to reach as many Kapamilyas as possible and produce content that gives them entertainment, inspiration, and relief, as we continue our mission to be in the service of the Filipino worldwide,” Reynante said.

ABS-CBN Entertainment’s YouTube channel was recently made available worldwide, as it is now seen in 27 countries in Asia, 13 countries in South America, nine countries in Africa, eight countries in Central and North America, 12 Oceania territories, Spain, France, Greece in Europe, and Cyprus, Jordan, and Lebanon in the Middle East.

ABS-CBN went off the air on May 5 in compliance with a cease and desist order issued by the National Telecommunications Commission following the expiration of the network’s franchise.

Last July 10, the House Committee on Legislative Franchises denied the network’s bid for a new franchise.

With the denial of its bid to secure a broadcast franchise, ABS-CBN was forced to close some of its ventures and reduce investments in non-core activities.

It also retrenched nearly 5,000 employees as the company was forced to cease the operations of some of its businesses.

The company is now syndicating its content through various streaming services and operate other businesses that do not require a legislative franchise, such as international licensing and distribution, digital, and cable TV.

ABS-CBN has also been exploring initiatives to distribute its content across additional platforms.

Last Saturday, ABS-CBN shows started making its return to free television through A2Z Ch. 11,as the company was able to strike a deal with Zoe Broadcasting Network Inc. of Eddie Villanueva.