Franchise-less ABS-CBN makes its presence more felt

With the number of shows it is launching every week, ABS-CBN seems unfazed by this year’s setbacks and challenges. It’s admirable to see the network making an effort to produce fresh episodes of its teleseryes like “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano,” “Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin,” “A Soldier’s Heart,” and “Love Thy Woman.”

The company found ways to secure the safety of its stars and production team just to come up with new shows for many Filipinos who are working or quarantined in their homes. Arising from the heartbreaking shutdown of its broadcasting services followed by a mass retrenchment, ABS-CBN turned things around and innovated their content.

One of the biggest online hits is Black Sheep’s Boy Love (BL) series “Hello Stranger,” starring Tony Labrusca and JC Alcantara, which earned 13.7 million digital views during its run. That makes it the most watched digital series in the country.

ABS-CBN Films experimented with a new format with the “Four Bad Boys and Me” digital series, which has amassed online followers with its unique and interesting storytelling.

Netizens are also witnesses to the rise of ABS-CBN streamers on Pinoy livestreaming app Kumu through the For Your Entertainment or FYE Channel. Since it started in July, FYE Channel has already gained more than 100,000 followers who take delight in the gabfests filled with interesting stories, trivia, and tips.

More viewers are enjoying intimate conversations in shows like “Bawal Ma-Stress Drilon” and “Kwentong Auntie Julie,” while others appreciate the on-the-spot grooming and beauty tips in shows like “Manhacks” and “Make Me Over.”

The Kapamilya network also seems to be unstoppable in producing music. Since March, it has launched collaboration projects such as “Ililigtas Ka Niya,” “Live For Jesus,” “Beautiful,” and most recently “HEAL,” sending a message of hope through music for listeners who need encouragement during these trying times.

Going through the list, you wouldn’t think ABS-CBN has disappeared from our lives. On the contrary, it has made itself more felt by keeping the industry alive with more originals.

We know many Filipinos are missing their ABS-CBN fare. But we won’t rule them out. ABS-CBN has thrived through crises. It has become part of Filipinos’ lives, and many are looking forward to the day that it will be back on air.

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With the changes faced by the world this year, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) has been continuing its efforts in supporting, promoting, and empowering the local film industry. In the last few months, this support came in the form of the DEAR assistance program for displaced workers during the pandemic, online film festival support, regional film schools, and more.

FDCP commemorates Sine Sandaan, the year-long celebration of the Centennial of Philippine Cinema that kicked off September last year. As the celebration nears its end, FDCP ramped up its activities for an eventful September dubbed as “Sine Sandaan: The Next 100.”

All of FDCP’s programs for the month are representative of the agency’s vision and hope of moving forward with Philippine Cinema through innovation, collaboration and solidarity. The scheduled events are aimed to celebrate, support, and advance the growth of Philippine cinema.