ABS-CBN Corporation reported a slowdown in its Content Production and Distribution business in the first quarter of 2026, reflecting weaker advertising demand and the absence of major entertainment events that boosted earnings a year earlier.
The company said the division generated ₱2.76 billion in revenue from January to March, down 13 percent compared to the same period in 2025.
ABS-CBN attributed the decline mainly to lower advertising revenues. The first quarter of 2025 benefited from election-related advertising, while overall industry ad spending this year weakened amid global economic uncertainties that affected consumer confidence and local business activity.
Revenue was also lower because the company did not release any major films or hold large-scale events during the quarter. In contrast, last year’s performance was lifted by BINI’s sold-out concert at the Philippine Arena and the strong box office showing of the movie “My Love Will Make You Disappear.”
Despite the weaker revenues, ABS-CBN said it expects business performance to improve in the coming months. Actor Coco Martin is set to return to primetime television in June, while Star Cinema plans to release its first movie of the year, “Tayo Sa Wakas,” in May. The company is also banking on BINI’s upcoming world tour, which starts in June after the group’s high-profile appearance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April.
The company also reported tighter cost controls. Operating expenses for the quarter fell 5 percent to ₱160 million, driven mainly by lower administrative and employee-related costs.
At the group level, ABS-CBN posted consolidated revenue of ₱3.33 billion, down 21 prrcent year-on-year, largely due to weaker performance from its Cable TV and Broadband businesses. Consolidated operating expenses dropped 12 percent to ₱4.06 billion, helping narrow losses. However, the company still recorded a consolidated net loss of ₱813 million for the quarter.
The results highlight the continuing challenges faced by ABS-CBN as it navigates a difficult advertising market while relying more heavily on entertainment content, live events, and digital-driven revenue streams to support recovery.
