Another round of bad news for Kapamilya workers. ABS-CBN has confirmed a retrenchment program, and this one will affect around 200 employees.
Image: Facebook / ABS-CBN NewsWhy is ABS-CBN laying off employees?
In its official statement dated September 15, 2026, ABS-CBN Corporate Communications said the company is still growing its content business, with shows, films, music and events reaching audiences in the Philippines and abroad. It described itself as rebuilding toward "a global storytelling company."
But the network was also honest that it has been a hard year. It named three reasons:
- the Middle East conflict
- high inflation
- low economic growth
Together, these led to weaker advertising and consumer spending, which the network said hurt its recovery. ABS-CBN also said it expects these challenges to continue.
How many ABS-CBN employees are affected?
Around 200 people, which the network said is about 7% of its workforce. Based on those numbers, ABS-CBN has somewhere around 2,800 to 2,900 employees right now.
The company said it knows this "will deeply affect our employees and their families" and promised to handle it with compassion for its Kapamilya. It closed by thanking employees for their dedication and service.
Wait, didn't ABS-CBN just get new investments?
Yes, and the statement mentioned that too. ABS-CBN called the new investments a vote of confidence in its future. So the company is getting fresh money on one side while cutting costs on the other. It is not unusual for a business in recovery mode, but it still stings for the people losing their jobs.
For context, this is a network that lost its free TV franchise in 2020 and had to let go of thousands of workers that year. Since then it has pivoted hard to streaming, cable, and partnerships with other networks. This new cut shows that the road back is still bumpy.
What retrenched workers should know
If you or someone you love is affected, here is a quick reminder. Under the Philippine Labor Code, workers let go because of retrenchment are entitled to separation pay of one month's pay or at least half a month's pay for every year of service, whichever is higher. The company also has to notify DOLE and the employee in writing at least one month before the separation takes effect. When in doubt, ask HR for the computation in writing, or reach out to DOLE.
Behind every show we love are cameramen, writers, editors, PAs and staff who work crazy hours. Our hearts go out to all the Kapamilya workers affected by this. Laban.
Quick answers
How many employees will ABS-CBN retrench in 2026?
Around 200 people, or about 7% of its workforce, according to the network's September 15, 2026 statement.
Why is ABS-CBN retrenching employees?
ABS-CBN cited the Middle East conflict, high inflation and low economic growth, which led to weaker advertising and consumer spending.
How much separation pay do retrenched workers get in the Philippines?
Under the Labor Code, retrenched workers get one month's pay or at least half a month's pay for every year of service, whichever is higher.
Updated September 16, 2026. Sources and photo credits: ABS-CBN News (Facebook) | Fashion Pulis | PEP.ph. All photos belong to their respective owners.