As ABS-CBN Regional Group ceased its operations on Friday, August 28, after the network was denied a new franchise by the House committee, Kapamilya broadcast journalist Karen Davila took to social media to honor its anchors and reporters.
On her Instagram page, Karen remarked, "Today, the ABS-CBN Regional Group did their last broadcast. And with it, the death of the voices of those specially in far flung areas all over the Philippines."
Karen highlighted that the regional group was what set ABS-CBN apart from the rest.
"Even when it wasn’t profitable, it was the vision of Geny Lopez to give Filipinos all over the country their own VOICE. They had to be heard," she posted.
She added, "ABS-CBN believed it was important to produce local newscasts and give each province importance. With this, 21 regional stations were born along 12 local TV Patrol programs. Just WOW!"
Karen said that it pains her knowing that the network's bridge to the nation already bid goodbye.
"The regional group are our unsung heroes. They are the heart, soul, and reach of ABS-CBN to the nation. Naiiyak po ako kasi ito po ang pinatay ng hindi pagbibigay ng prankisa sa ABS-CBN," she stated.
Karen continued, "Our lawmakers killed free access to news and information in many isolated and disaster-prone barangays unreached by other networks or the internet. It breaks my heart."
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She also remarked that she was honored to work with the ABS-CBN Regional Group.
"Mahal namin kayo. What an honor to have worked with you. I feel truly humbled and proud," she stated.