24/7 actor Arjo Atayde was one of the celebrities who participated in ‘Walk of Faith’ held last February 24 at 10:00 AM with dozens of ABS-CBN employees and with fellow artists like Melai Cantiveros, Karla Estrada, JM De Guzman, and Jolina Magdangal to name a few.
Witnessing the despair of ABS-CBN employees who are afraid of losing their jobs if the franchise renewal will not be granted, Arjo finally expressed his opinion regarding the issue.
“I was very disappointed because of how, I guess it’s a power trip, ayoko magsalita baka ano pa masabi ko. I just think it’s a power trip, but I feel bad for the network, for the people, yung mga trabaho ng mga tao.
“I did the walk yesterday, I saw how sad people when I was talking to them, how will they lose their jobs, I get it. What affects me more, the fact na I realized na oo that’s how affected people actually, na-witness ko talaga while walking how scared they are, it’s very, very sad, gusto kong sabihin tulungan kita, kung pwede lang eh, I’ll help.”
Compared to Myrtle Sarrosa who transferred networks as ABS-CBN faces a big battle, Arjo affirmed that he will always be there for ABS-CBN. The issue of ABS-CBN franchise network will not be an excuse for him to transfer to another network.
“I’m ABS, I’m loyal. I’m always gonna be there, I’m very thankful to be part of this network, company, and I’m hoping for the best. They don’t mean anyone wrong, offend anyone, it’s just really a miscommunication. I’m here for them all the way for ABS-CBN family.”
Arjo’s first action TV project was FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano with Coco Martin where he played antagonist Police Insp. Joaquin S. Tuazon. He was able to work with Angel Locsin for The General’s Daughter as Francisco “Paco” Alipio where he earned rave reviews or his performance.
Now, Arjo is portraying the role of Dr. Cedric Jacinto, son of Edu Manzano’s character Claudio S. Jacinto in Julia Montes’ comeback TV series 24/7 which airs every Sunday.
ABS-CBN’s Franchise Renewal Issue Update
The Department of Justice declined to make a legal opinion on the controversial ABS-CBN franchise renewal. The DOJ stated that President Rodrigo Duterte can authorize the National Telecommunications Commission to provide the giant network a provisional license.
Meanwhile, Buhay Partylist Representative Lito Atienza urged House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano to resign due to his inaction on the franchise renewal bills, but the latter insisted that he will only vacate his post if the majority of the House is no longer in favor of him.