The Supreme Court has dismissed the case filed by GMA Network against ABS-CBN Corporation over alleged defamatory statements linked to TV ratings manipulation.
In a decision penned by Associate Justice Japar Dimaampao, the Court junked two consolidated petitions: a complaint for damages filed by GMA against ABS-CBN, and a counterclaim lodged by ABS-CBN against GMA.
The high tribunal ruled that remarks made by ABS-CBN hosts regarding GMA’s alleged involvement in influencing TV ratings in 2008 were “qualified privileged communications.” The Court noted that the reports were accurate and fair, citing documentation that supported the claims.
It further emphasized that no malice was found in the statements, which fell under the fair comment doctrine, adding that GMA, as a public figure and media entity, is subject to criticism provided it is backed by evidence.
Both ABS-CBN and GMA Network have yet to issue official statements on the ruling.
The two rival networks are currently in a joint content and production agreement, forged after ABS-CBN was denied a new franchise in 2020.