May 5, 2020 will always be remembered as the darkest day imaginable for Philippine broadcasting in modern times, as ABS-CBN went off-the-air in compliance with a cease-and-desist order issued by the National Telecommunications Commission as the network’s franchise lapsed amid continuing deliberations over its renewal in Congress.
Yet, the entire It’s Showtime family, known for spreading good vibes, fun, and laughter even in the worst of times, sought to cheer up their fellow Kapamilya workers and the Madlang People with their messages of encouragement, hope, and inspiration.
On their Instagram accounts, the show’s hosts posted words of support, sympathy, and faith to enliven their spirits.
Vice Ganda posted: “We are heartbroken but we are not hopeless. We lift everything to you Lord Jesus Christ. We trust you.”
Anne Curtis, for her part, said: “I’m still in disbelief that this is actually happening. To my ABS-CBN Family: I stand with you. I pray for brighter days and hearing “in the service of the Filipino” on air again. A big hug sa lahat ng aking Kapamilya.”
Meanwhile Vhong Navarro stated: “Mahal na mahal ko ang ABS-CBN at ang mga taong bumubuo nito.”
Teddy Corpuz, on the heart, said he remained strong in his faith: “My heart will never give in to the enemy’s anger nor will I gloat. But instead my heart will remain fixed on Jesus. His love, his grace, His goodness and in His ever faithful promises. I will fight in the best way I know, which is love, grace, kindness, and my best weapon…prayer, praise and worship because that is who I am and who Jesus called me to be.
“Even in the middle of this trial, I will never stop singing praises to you Jesus, my Lord and Savior! I will shout and praise your name Jesus forever and ever.”
Jhong Hilario also posted an ABS-CBN news graphic on the NTC memo with the caption: “Ngayon po talaga? Sa mga pinagdadaanan natin ngayon? God bless you po.”
Tyang Amy Perez-Castillo used the same image and wrote: “The Lord will fight for you, you only need to be still. Exodus 14:14.”
Tyang Amy then captioned a video chat screengrab of the entire It’s Showtime family with this statement: “Our family is a circle of strength and love.” Jugs Jugueta posted the same photo with the caption: “Love you fam!”
Karylle would also upload a viral “Care” emoji hugging the ABS-CBN logo with the message “Para sa #MalayangPamamahayag,” and Mariel Rodriguez-Padilla would post the ABS-CBN ribbon graphic with a black background.
Browse through their heartening posts in this gallery.