Actress Jodi Sta. Maria has expressed her sadness over the recent layoffs at ABS-CBN Corp. due to financial challenges. Sta. Maria took to Instagram to share her thoughts, reposting a news article about the network’s decision to let go of around 100 employees. In her caption, she described the situation as “heartbreaking,” accompanied by a broken heart emoji.
Broadcast journalist Lynda Jumilla-Abalos also reacted to the news, offering her support to the affected employees while criticizing those making light of the situation. “People are losing their jobs and facing a bleak Christmas,” she said on X (formerly Twitter).
The media company, which has been struggling since its franchise was not renewed in 2020, stated that the layoffs, which account for about 3% of its workforce, were a necessary step to keep the business afloat. Despite the setbacks, ABS-CBN has noted some business successes, including record-breaking box office hits like “Rewind” and continued strong ratings for shows like Batang Quiapo and It’s Showtime.
The network also recently achieved a major digital milestone, surpassing 50 million subscribers on YouTube, making it the most subscribed Southeast Asian media channel.