The Two Pillars of ABS-CBN

For a long time, ABS-CBN has remained the most powerful station in the Philippines. But if we look into the soul of the network, two names immediately emerge—Vice Ganda and Angel Locsin. One is a king of comedy who can change the entire mood of the people, while the other is considered a “golden goose,” who not only acts but also becomes the voice of the people. Behind their success, there is also a hidden question: who is the true pillar of ABS-CBN? And more importantly—will the network still maintain its brilliance if one of them is gone?

Vice Ganda: The King of Comedy or a Flash of Light?

Vice Ganda’s contribution to the industry is undeniable. His movies are box-office hits, his jokes become memes on social media, and his presence on  It’s Showtime  is like electricity that brings life to every Filipino’s afternoon. In addition, he is also a symbol of LGBTQ+ representation, something that sometimes doesn’t get enough voice in mainstream media.

But there are also critics. Some say that his humor sometimes relies on insults, and that the excessive display of the same type of comedy becomes repetitive. So, the question is: can ABS-CBN last long in the same format without a new form of humor? Or is Vice just a flash of lightning that suddenly shines and may eventually die out?

Angel Locsin: The Actress Who Transcended the Stage

If Vice is for the laughs, Angel Locsin is for the heart. From being Darna to making us cry in  The Legal Wife , she has shown the breadth of her talent. But more than that, Angel is often seen in disaster areas, quietly helping, carrying relief goods, and talking to disaster victims.

His position is unique because his “brand” is not just about showbiz but about integrity and caring. That’s why he’s been called ABS-CBN’s “golden goose”—because he not only makes money for the network, but also provides moral credibility. But he’s not immune to controversy either. His personal life decisions, his health issues, and his occasional return or departure from the spotlight are always followed by the public. The questions are: Can he maintain his influence even when he’s not active on television? And is ABS-CBN using him not just as an artist but as a symbol of their own caring image?

ABS-CBN: Depends on the Two?
In short, ABS-CBN seems to rely on two pillars: Vice Ganda for popularity and revenue, and Angel Locsin for credibility and heart. But it can be noticed that whenever the network is in crisis—such as losing its franchise—Angel is the one who stands out as the face of determination. While Vice, despite having a strong voice, is usually still on the comedy stage.

This is where the controversial point arises: Does ABS-CBN need Vice Ganda’s humor more, or Angel Locsin’s morality and compassion? If one is gone, who will leave a gap that will be harder to fill?

Angel Locsin’s Legacy: Real or Made-Up Image?
Despite everything, Angel Locsin’s name remains strong. For many, she is a true hero—an actress who was not tied to just the thrill of a soap opera but used her platform for real change. But some also say that part of her image is nurtured and magnified by the network to serve as a shield against public criticism.

This begs the question: Without ABS-CBN, would Angel’s legacy still be as strong? Or is his “golden goose” status more a product of the station than of himself?

The Unforgivable Truth
Ultimately, it cannot be denied that both Vice Ganda and Angel Locsin have made significant contributions to ABS-CBN. But when it comes to legacy, Angel’s name stands out as having a deeper and more lasting impact. While Vice may represent current entertainment and popularity, Angel seems to have carved her name into history as a symbol of compassion, strength, and dignity.

So the question the public should ask is not just who is more famous, but: Who is the more authentic face of ABS-CBN?