GMA vs ABS-CBN: Korte Suprema, kinumpirma ang desisyon sa kaso ng TV ratings

• The Supreme Court of the Philippines rejects GMA Network’s case against ABS-CBN regarding alleged false TV ratings claims
• The decision upholds that ABS-CBN’s reports are considered “qualified privileged communications”
• Court affirms that ABS-CBN’s segments were fair and supported by documentary evidence, including AGB Nielsen data
• GMA’s counterclaims and ABS-CBN’s claims for damages were both dismissed

The Supreme Court of the Philippines has dismissed the case filed by GMA Network, Inc. against ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation over allegedly defamatory statements regarding TV ratings.

The Third Division of the Court set aside both the main petition filed by GMA and ABS-CBN’s counterclaim. The dispute stemmed from ABS-CBN segments reporting alleged manipulation of ratings, which were based on a confession from a former AGB Nielsen general manager about tampering with Panel Homes. A former GMA employee also revealed being instructed to locate Panel Homes and encourage residents to watch GMA programs in exchange for PHP 500 cash and PHP 300 worth of groceries.

Read also

LTFRB, pinai-impound ang taxi matapos umano’y maningil nang sobra sa isang sikat na K-Pop idol

GMA initially filed a damages case in the Regional Trial Court, accusing ABS-CBN of twisting statements by Reforma to suggest interference in ratings. ABS-CBN responded with a counterclaim for damages. The RTC rejected both claims, and the Court of Appeals upheld this decision. The case was subsequently elevated to the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court confirmed that the statements made by ABS-CBN hosts and guest speakers are covered as "qualified privileged communications." The Court highlighted that the reports were fair, factual, and supported by documentary evidence, including interviews with an AGB Nielsen official and corresponding data analysis. The Court emphasized that there was no malice involved in broadcasting these statements.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court dismissed ABS-CBN’s counterclaim, stating that GMA had sufficient basis to believe that the statements broadcast on ABS-CBN programs were potentially defamatory.

The full press release and decision text are available on the Supreme Court’s official website.

GMA Network and ABS-CBN are the twin pillars of Philippine media, historically defined by their fierce competition for television supremacy. However, by 2026, this rivalry has transformed into a groundbreaking era of collaboration. Through strategic partnerships, ABS-CBN’s iconic content now airs on GMA’s platforms, bridging the "Kapamilya" and "Kapuso" fanbases. This historic synergy has revitalized the local entertainment industry, allowing both giants to co-produce high-quality series and films that reach a wider global audience while modernizing the landscape of Filipino broadcasting.

Read also

OPM hitmaker Jonathan Manalo raises concern over AI in music industry

In separate news, the Supreme Court of the Philippines dismissed the appeal filed by three police officers convicted in the 2017 killing of Kian delos Santos. The justices ruled that treachery characterized the crime, noting the teenager was left defenseless during the shooting. The court also determined that the officers were not performing lawful duties at the time. Aside from upholding the murder conviction, the tribunal ordered the policemen to pay damages to Kian’s family, including interest, reinforcing accountability for the fatal incident.

Meanwhile, Eduardo Rivera Regio, 59, finally passed the 2025 Bar Exams after first attempting the test in 1993, marking a remarkable journey of perseverance. He endured the “five-strike rule” and several near-passing scores, including 72% and 73% in previous tries. Regio said his determination was fueled by the desire to inspire his five children, proving that persistence matters. Among 11,425 examinees, he emerged as a symbol of resilience, reminding many that age does not limit achieving professional goals.

Source: KAMI.com.gh