"And that is the whole truth." Thus asserted ABS-CBN in a statement which deplored "certain irresponsible media" reports that Dolphy’s show "Home Along Da Airport" had been canceled.
Contrary to these reports, ABS-CBN "categorically" said the long-running sitcom "has not been axed." It said the program’s taping is on schedule and the show "will continue airing in its regular time slot."
"We deplore the malicious treatment given by certain irresponsible media to a normal, businesslike process. Yes, there were discussions," the broadcast giant said. "Such discussions are always held in confidence in order to encourage a free and candid exchange of ideas."
It said this is a "normal practice" in a television network such as ABS-CBN "whose constant and abiding motivation is to strive for excellence in all its productions."
Besides, it said the viewing public deserves the "best programs we are capable of producing."
Unfortunately, ABS-CBN lamented, "certain irresponsible media have exploited this normal business practice."
"With utterly no basis, other than the speculation of partisan individuals and politicians with nothing else more vital to the nation on their minds, these irresponsible media practitioners have maliciously maligned ABS-CBN by falsely claiming that our respected and beloved Dolphy was sacked because of his support for a candidate in the race for the presidency," the TV-radio network said.
Without a "shred of evidence," these media practitioners have "escalated their attacks" by asserting that the company "punishes its personnel who refuse to follow non-existent orders to support certain candidates," ABS-CBN said.
ABS-CBN alluded to allegations that "Home Along Da Airport" was supposedly canceled because Dolphy was throwing his support behind opposition presidential standard-bearer Fernando Poe Jr.
"They complete this orgy of hysterical speculation by screaming, again without an iota of proof, that Dolphy’s supposed ouster — which was their own fabricated story —was part of a sinister deal," it said.
ABS-CBN said it is "unbecoming" of any media outfit "that claims to adhere to truth, fairness and responsibility" to spread "this absurdity, this blatant misrepresentation," which, it added, "should cease."
"Dolphy will be always be a treasured and honored member of the ABS-CBN family. We are aware of his popularity among millions of his fans who have loved and supported him in the 60 years of his unique and brilliant career," the company said.
It added: "The record will show that this network has always been behind him in his entire professional life in the broadcast industry. This relationship began with our founder, the late Geny Lopez. This relationship will stand whatever intrigues, political or otherwise, are sowed by hired hacks, demolition experts and irresponsible media."
Dolphy’s relationship with ABS-CBN dates back to the 1960s, with the comedy show "Buhay Artista," which also starred Panchito and, later, Babalu, both now deceased.