Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI) have recently expressed dismay over the signing-off of the Philippines' biggest TV network, ABS-CBN, following the National Telecommunications Commission's (NTC) cease and desist order. In a recently released statement on their official Facebook page, the BPCI have stated that the organization and the network, "have been valuable partners for many years. The Kapamilya network is instrumental in echoing our mission to promote peace and love across the nation, and has helped provide a platform that allows us to provide young Filipinas the opportunity to be carriers our message. We express our support to our Kapamilyas affected by the network's closure and hope that this issue will be resolved soon.”
The Philippines’ largest broadcaster ABS-CBN was forced off the air on Tuesday over the stalled renewal of its operating license.
The Binibini queens including Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray expressed her support for the TV network where she signed her contract. She took over to her social media and posted a picture with a caption, “As we face this global pandemic as a nation, fast and accessible information is key to saving lives. By silencing voices we’re doing a disservice to our countrymen who need it most. At a time in our history when we should be remembered for how we all came together to serve each other. When we look back, what will be remembered instead? #NoToABSCBNShutdown."
Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach also expressed her sadness by the TV network’s shutting down. "ABSCBN holds a dear place in my heart. I spent most of my teenage years in the halls of ABSCBN, attending workshops, doing rehearsals, tapings and even attending classes (They had a high school a few years back and I graduated there) ABSCBN was a home for me. It is also home to 11,000 employees and is in the homes of almost every Filipino family. To my ABSCBN family, I stand by you. I am still hopeful that all of this is just a challenge. Maayosrin ang lahat,"
The BPCI partnered with the ABS-CBN network for airing the official Binibining Pilipinas beauty pageant activities as well as the grand coronation ceremony. The Binibining Pilipinas 2020 is on hold due to the outbreak of the pandemic but the 40 candidates who will be compete for the national crown as well as an opportunity to represent the Philippines at international pageants including, Miss Supranational 2020, Miss International 2020, Miss Grand International 2020, Miss Intercontinental 2020 and Miss Globe 2020 continue to participate in online pre-pageant activities to keep the fans and themselves occupied.