ABS-CBN Releases Official Statement: "Libel Case Has No Basis!"




ABS-CBN releases an official statement regarding the libel case filed by the rival network GMA-7.

We may recall that in July 27, 2004, GMA-7 filed a case against ABS-CBN for airing reports accusing GMA7 of “stealing” and “pirating” exclusive footage taken of the arrival of overseas Filipino worker Angelo dela Cruz after he was released by Iraqi militants in 2004. The terms "pagnanakaw ng aming eksklusibong kuha," "pamimirata ng footage," "pagnanakaw ay isang malaking krimen" and "pagnanakaw ng video" were the basis of Kapuso's libel sue against the Kapamilya network since these words were used by the defunct ABS-CBN late night TV program "Insider" anchored by Erwin Tulfo and voiced by Lynda Jumilla.

The news program uttered those words pertaining to the “unauthorized” use of the footage of Dela Cruz on July 22, 2004 aired by GMA-7.

Here is ABS-CBN's statement:


"The respondents to the libel case have voluntarily surrendered to the court and posted bail in accordance with law. They nevertheless firmly maintain that the libel charge has no basis in fact and law.

In truth, it was the complainant who used ABS-CBN footage without its authority and consent and was thus charged by ABS-CBN with copyright infringement.

The respondents will avail themselves of all legal remedies to question the findings of probable cause for the arrest warrants issued by the RTC of Quezon City.

It is unfortunate that the respondents are being pilloried as criminals, when in fact, it was ABS-CBN whose rights were violated. They are confident that this libel suit will eventually be dismissed."

--Bong R. Osorio
Head, ABS-CBN Integrated Corporate Communications


Former ABS-CBN CEO Eugenio “Gabby” Lopez III posted a bail worth  P20,000 at a Quezon City court on Monday, February 18, 2013. Also, majority of the respondents have already posted bail.(www.tvseriescraze.blogspot.com) 

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