August 31, 2025, marks a historic moment in Philippine media as ABS-CBN, one of the nation’s largest and most beloved television networks, officially announced its return to free TV broadcasting. The major announcement, made at a high-profile press conference at the network’s headquarters in Quezon City, sent shockwaves across the country and ignited a wave of celebration among millions of loyal Kapamilya fans.

The Long Road Back: From Shutdown to Survival

ABS-CBN was once the gold standard of Philippine television—home to blockbuster shows, trusted news programs, and world-class entertainment. But in May 2020, the network was forced off the air after its franchise renewal was denied by Congress. For many Filipinos, the shutdown was more than just the loss of a TV channel—it felt like a cultural and emotional wound, raising concerns about media freedom and access to information.

Despite losing its traditional platform, ABS-CBN refused to disappear. The network shifted to digital, strengthened its online presence, formed partnerships with cable and satellite providers, and launched its own streaming services like iWantTFC. But despite these efforts, millions of Filipinos continued to yearn for one thing: the return of ABS-CBN to free TV.

The Unbelievable Comeback

That long-awaited moment has finally come. In an emotional and widely attended press conference, ABS-CBN President and CEO Carlo L. Katigbak announced that the network is officially returning to free TV through a groundbreaking partnership with a major broadcasting ally. While the full details remain confidential, insiders reveal that the collaboration will allow ABS-CBN to resume nationwide broadcast under a reimagined, modernized operating model.

In addition to resuming free-to-air operations, ABS-CBN is also launching an ambitious lineup of original programs, a revamped news division, and an aggressive strategy to meet the demands of a fast-evolving digital media landscape. The company’s leadership emphasized that this comeback is not just a return—it’s a reinvention.

A Nation Rejoices

As soon as the announcement was made, hashtags like #KapamilyaForever and #WelcomeBackABSCBN began trending on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and TikTok. Fans gathered outside ABS-CBN’s iconic headquarters on Mother Ignacia Avenue, waving flags, lighting candles, and cheering through tears. Emotional videos of people hugging, crying, and singing the network’s theme songs flooded social media.

Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) also shared their joy online. One OFW based in Qatar said, “ABS-CBN kept me connected to home during the hardest times. This return feels like being reunited with family again.”

Celebrities Celebrate

The network’s top stars took to social media to share their emotions. Pop superstar Sarah Geronimo, love team icons Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla, and action star Coco Martin expressed their gratitude and excitement.

Vice Ganda, one of ABS-CBN’s most outspoken personalities during the shutdown, posted:
“I CRIED. THE FIGHT CONTINUES. THANK YOU LORD. THANK YOU KAPAMILYA. WE ARE BACK!!!”

Meanwhile, Coco Martin promised that FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano, a show that became a symbol of resistance during the shutdown, will return with new stories of hope and courage.

The Industry Reacts

Media analysts say the return of ABS-CBN is likely to reshape the television landscape. With its massive audience base, influential stars, and loyal advertisers, ABS-CBN’s comeback could trigger a new era of fierce competition in ratings and content quality.

“This is not just a corporate victory—it’s a cultural one,” said a media professor from the University of the Philippines. “It reaffirms the importance of storytelling, media freedom, and the Filipino people’s voice.”

Even rival network personalities acknowledged the significance of the moment. One veteran actor from a competing station said, “In the end, we’re all storytellers. A strong ABS-CBN means more stories, more opportunities, and a richer industry.”

Going Global

ABS-CBN’s leadership also shared its vision for expanding globally. With a focus on streaming and digital platforms, the network aims to strengthen its connection with the Filipino diaspora. Strategic partnerships with international content distributors are also in the pipeline, ensuring that Filipino stories reach audiences far beyond the Philippines.

The network is planning a grand relaunch event to be simulcast on free TV, online platforms, and overseas channels. The celebration will feature star-studded performances, emotional tributes, and surprises for fans who remained loyal through the most challenging years.

A Legacy Reborn

The journey of ABS-CBN—from its shutdown in 2020 to its triumphant return in 2025—is a powerful reflection of the Filipino spirit: resilient, determined, and always hopeful. It is not just the story of a media company, but of a people who never gave up on what they loved.

As ABS-CBN opens a new chapter, it brings with it a renewed commitment to serve, inform, and inspire. The return of the Kapamilya network symbolizes more than just television programming—it represents a homecoming, a cultural restoration, and a bold step into the future.

ABS-CBN is back—stronger, smarter, and more determined than ever. For every Kapamilya who waited, believed, and held on to hope, this is your victory too.

The light is back on. The screen is alive. And the Kapamilya legacy continues.