Beyond the Ratings: 3 Big Misconceptions About the ABS-CBN, TV5, and ALLTV Shift

The Philippine TV landscape just hit a massive reset button. With the official end of the ABS-CBN and TV5 partnership on January 2, 2026, and the simultaneous "homecoming" of Kapamilya shows to ALLTV (Channel 2), social media is buzzing.

A viral post recently claimed that TV5’s Totoy Bato saw its ratings plummet from 3.8 to 1.2 in a single week, attributing this to the loss of the "halo effect" from ABS-CBN’s Batang Quiapo. While the numbers tell one story, the context tells another.

Here are the three biggest misconceptions you need to know.

1. Misconception: TV5’s Ratings Drop is Solely About Content Quality

The viral statement suggests a "grim outlook" for TV5 because its ratings "nosedived." However, it is important to distinguish between program quality and audience flow.

The "halo effect" or "lead-in" is a real broadcasting phenomenon. For years, viewers tuned their TVs to TV5 early to catch TV Patrol and Batang Quiapo. When those shows moved to ALLTV, that "standby" audience moved with them. The drop in Totoy Bato's ratings isn't necessarily a reflection of the show being "bad"; it’s a reflection of the loss of the massive digital-to-analog bridge that ABS-CBN provided.

2. Misconception: ALLTV is Now the "New ABS-CBN"

While it’s exciting to see Kapamilya shows back on Channel 2 via ALLTV, it’s a misconception to think the networks have merged.

 * Licensing vs. Ownership: ABS-CBN remains an independent content creator. The deal with Manny Villar’s AMBS (ALLTV) is a licensing agreement.

 * Multi-Platform Strategy: Unlike the old days of exclusivity, ABS-CBN is now "platform agnostic." You’ll still see It’s Showtime and Pinoy Big Brother on GMA, while other prime content remains on A2Z and digital platforms like iWantTFC.

3. Misconception: TV5 has "Failed" to Cultivate an Audience

The viral post calls this a "massive wake-up call" for TV5. While the transition is jarring, TV5 is currently in a rebuilding phase. The network is no longer a "host" for Kapamilya content but is forced to solidify its own Kapatid identity. For fans, this means more competition—which usually leads to better shows for everyone. TV5 isn't "failing"; it is simply recalibrating after losing a partnership that accounted for a huge chunk of its primetime block.

The Bottom Line

The migration to ALLTV proves one thing: The Kapamilya brand is the "North Star" of Philippine TV. Whether it’s on TV5, A2Z, GMA, or ALLTV, the audience follows the stories, not just the frequency.

As we navigate this "new era" of TV in 2026, let’s celebrate the fact that our favorite shows are more accessible than ever, even if it means rescanning our TV boxes and tuning in to their Onling Digital Platforms.