ABS-CBN Broadcasting, owned by the Lopez family, has secured a new platform for its flagship newscast, which interestingly happens to be its former abode as well.
According to insiders, TV Patrol is set to make a grand return to its original time slot on Channel 2 starting Monday, April 15, following negotiations with the channel’s new proprietor, ALLTV, owned by the billionaire Manny Villar.
Sources reveal that ABS-CBN has finalized a block-time agreement with ALLTV to extend the reach of TV Patrol nationwide.
This collaboration between ALLTV and ABS-CBN couldn’t have come at a more opportune moment, especially with the impending mid-term elections next year. With Congresswoman Camille Villar eyeing a Senate seat, anticipation is palpable.
Once the nation’s premier primetime news program, TV Patrol faced setbacks after ABS-CBN lost its franchise in 2020. Despite its return to free-to-air TV in 2022 on A2Z channel, owned by Eddie Villanueva’s Jesus is Lord group, the show has struggled to regain its former glory. Its presence on cable TV, YouTube, and DWPM hasn’t quite hit the mark.
Insiders anticipate that ALLTV, with its acquisition of ABS-CBN’s transmitters, will significantly boost TV Patrol’s viewership, potentially revitalizing its appeal.
Securing TV Patrol strengthens ALLTV’s lineup with a reputable news program, elevating its status among the top channels during election periods. While ALLTV previously collaborated with the now-defunct CNN Philippines, the partnership dissolved after a brief six months.
It’s speculated that TV Patrol’s resurgence could pave the way for other beloved ABS-CBN programs to reclaim their spots, as Villar extends a welcoming hand to the Lopezes’ creations.
This development begs the question: Did ABS-CBN President Carlo Katigbak allude to this burgeoning partnership with Villar when he promised that this year would mark Kapamilya Channel’s resurgence since 2020? — (bilyonaryo.com)
