The race for the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) broadcast rights is intensifying as four major media outlets emerge as potential homes for the country’s oldest collegiate league.
According to sources from sports site DugoutPH, the bidders include:
- Net 25: Flagship station of Eagle Broadcasting Corporation, the media arm of Iglesia ni Cristo.
- Bilyonaryo News Channel: A rising player in the news and business landscape.
- PTV-4: The government-owned People’s Television Network.
- ABS-CBN Corporation: The former media giant seeking a major comeback in sports broadcasting.
A Potential Return for ABS-CBN
The bid by ABS-CBN is particularly notable. If successful, it would mark the network’s return to covering a major sporting event nearly six years after its broadcast franchise was denied by the House of Representatives in 2020. Before the shutdown, ABS-CBN Sports was the longtime home of various collegiate leagues.
Notable Absences and Transitions
While competition is stiff, industry giant TV5/Cignal has reportedly opted out of the bidding process. Sources indicate the network remains focused on its current powerhouse lineup, which includes the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) and the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).
The opening for a new partner comes after the NCAA concluded its six-year partnership with GMA Network this year. The league is now seeking a new platform to showcase its centennial season and beyond, ushering in a new era for Philippine collegiate sports.