Recently, veteran Senator and actor Robin Padilla once again stirred up public opinion when he spoke out frankly about ABS-CBN, the largest television station in the Philippines. In a powerful statement, he declared “I am not afraid of ABS-CBN” and emphasized that the truth needs to be brought to light. This statement shocked the media and online community, as the controversy over ABS-CBN has not completely subsided.
Robin Padilla, long known for his clear and strong views on political and media issues, has not hesitated to express his personal views on ABS-CBN. He has publicly expressed his disagreement with the way the television station operates, especially regarding issues of broadcasting franchises and media influence.
On December 19, 2024, Robin Padilla strongly objected to the findings of the Philippine House of Representatives’ “Quad Committee” on ABS-CBN, calling it “a big lie.” He stressed that:
> “I cannot accept what they have come up with. The truth cannot be distorted by anyone, and I am not afraid of ABS-CBN or any force behind it.”
These statements immediately became a hot topic on social media platforms, attracting the attention of millions of Filipinos.
ABS-CBN has been in turmoil since 2020 when the Philippine government did not renew their broadcasting franchise. This led to the station being forced to stop operating on its traditional broadcasting platform. This decision was met with strong opposition from the people, but also received support from some politicians, including Robin Padilla.
He has stated that ABS-CBN needs to change the way it operates instead of relying solely on media power. Padilla stressed that he is not against the free media industry, but he believes that “every media entity must be accountable to the public and abide by the law.”
Immediately after Robin Padilla’s statement, public opinion was divided into two camps. Some fans supported his views, saying that ABS-CBN really needs to reform. Others criticized him for siding with the government instead of defending the free press.
Meanwhile, ABS-CBN has remained tight-lipped about Padilla’s statements. They have not issued any official response to the matter, instead continuing to focus on digital platforms and streaming services after losing their rights to broadcast on national television.
With a strong personality and steadfast stance, Robin Padilla certainly won’t stop here. He has stated that he will continue to pursue the truth and ensure that the public has a more transparent view of the matter.
Will ABS-CBN respond or continue to remain silent? Will Robin Padilla continue this fight to the end? The public is eagerly waiting to see what happens next in the tense confrontation between one of the most powerful figures in Philippine politics and the country’s largest television network.
Robin Padilla to leave ABS-CBN?
Robin Padilla is mulling over leaving ABS-CBN for a TV network that will treat him not just as a contract star, but a producer who decides what shows to come up with.
“My contract with ABS-CBN has expired. I’m choosing between the three who have the best offer,” he told the media after renewing his contract with Talk ‘N Text at the SMART Tower on Ayala Avenue, Makati City. “The offer has to be good. First, the one that has value. The one that is good is what I will do.”
Robin adds that as he ages (he turns 44 on November 23), he has learned to be more “progressive” and to explore other avenues in showbiz.
“I also want to become a producer. I’m looking for a station that will accept me as a producer. Not just as an artist. Because I’m also producing movies. I also want to go into TV. I want to produce projects that have to do with history. We’re not just being cute.”
He shares that three of the movies he produced this year are now lined up for screening—the Metro Manila Film Festival entry “10,000 Hours,” as well as “Kuratong Baleleng” co-starring Daniel Padilla (tentatively for screening in January 2014) and “BB Ama” with his sister BB Gandanghari.
Not disappointed with ABS-CBN
In 2011, when he was about to sign up with TV5, Robin opted to make an official comeback in ABS-CBN after his two-year stint with GMA-7.
He has since done the teleserye “Guns and Roses” and “Kailangan Ko’y Ikaw” and the sitcom “Toda Max.”
But issues cropped up when Robin left the sitcom.
“Like I said, I’m getting old, I don’t like not sleeping anymore. Because back then, you could still not sleep. But now, it hurts my body. That’s why I can’t do TV, shooting. I can’t do it because I’m doing two movies.”
On fighting aging
Meanwhile, Robin admits he cannot fight aging.
“I’m also old. I’m 43 these days. I want projects that have to do with… things that can help, not things where I’m just being cute.”
And as the Padillas continue to field third-generation members in showbiz, Robin passes on the task of making fans giddy to his nephews and children.
“I have many cute nephews. There’s Daniel, there’s RJ, I also have a cute daughter, Kylie.
