It was the local franchise of the global news brand.
On January 31, 2024, at exactly 10:00 pm, CNN Philippines formally folded its operations on all platforms after nine years.
This move happened after Nine Media Corporation (NMC) incurred financial losses over the past few years.
In a statement, the company wrote, “It is with deep regret that the management of Nine Media Corporation (NMC) announces the discontinuation of its news production and operations on all media platforms, branded as CNN Philippines, effective January 31, 2024.”
The company explained that the decision to end the operations of the Filipino news network was due to “significant financial losses sustained over the past years, despite rigorous efforts to adapt and innovate in a rapidly evolving and challenging media landscape.”
“We are aware of the impact of this closure on our valued employees and talents, we assure all affected staff will be provided with severance packages,” the company noted.
They also gave thanks to the entire newsroom “for their unwavering commitment over the years that has elevated CNNPH as a trusted source of news and information in the Philippines.”
Nine Media also expressed their “profound gratitude” to their partner, CNN Worldwide/Turner Broadcasting Corporation “for their support and understanding.”
NMC also said their loyal viewers have given them purpose, and for that, they “are honored to have served you.”
To end, “we [at Nine Media] would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to our employees, partners, and stakeholders. Thank you for the trust.”
CNN Philippines debuted on-air as the fifth localized version of global news brand CNN on March 16, 2015, more than five months after it was first confirmed on October 14, 2014.
It boasted a mixed line-up of shows, which consisted of local productions and those acquired from CNN International, which also enabled CNNPH to broadcast major breaking news stories from around the world as they happened.
Our local CNN also became home to some of the country’s most-respected journalists, namely Pia Hontiveros, Rico Hizon, Pinky Webb, Ruth Cabal, among many others who have come and went on the channel.
CNN Philippines was replaced by RPTV on free TV channel 9, while Newswatch Plus rose in July 2024 as its spiritual successor.