Veteran broadcaster Julius Babao has temporarily stepped down as co-anchor of Frontline Pilipinas on TV5, following the growing controversy surrounding his past interview with controversial contractors Sarah and Curlee Discaya.
On Monday, August 25, 2025, Ed Lingao filled in as Cheryl Cosim’s co-anchor, while on Tuesday, August 26, Lourd de Veyra took over the seat. A source close to TV5’s News and Public Affairs confirmed that Babao is “on leave” while management reviews issues linked to his name.
The development stems from Babao’s September 2024 Unplugged YouTube feature on the Discaya couple. The episode recently resurfaced after Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto posted on Facebook last August 21, 2025, questioning why both Babao and fellow broadcaster Korina Sanchez highlighted the couple despite their alleged involvement in anomalous flood control projects.
Mayor Sotto’s remarks reignited public scrutiny, with critics accusing Babao of lending legitimacy to the Discayas through his program. While the interview initially framed the couple as entrepreneurs with an inspiring story, the subsequent controversies surrounding their business dealings placed Babao in an unfavorable light.
Upholding Network Credibility
Industry observers note that Babao’s leave follows standard practice among major networks. News and Public Affairs divisions often ask talents to temporarily step back whenever their involvement in a controversy could affect the credibility of ongoing coverage. This move, they said, is designed to protect the integrity of the newsroom and avoid perceptions of bias.
Babao’s Response
In an exclusive interview with Cabinet Files on August 21, Babao firmly denied rumors that he accepted PHP 10 million in exchange for the Discaya interview.
“There is no truth to the claims that 10 million pesos was involved for this interview,” Babao clarified. “The purpose of my vlog was to inspire people that it is possible to succeed through hard work and resourcefulness.”
He did not elaborate on the network’s internal discussions but hinted through a cryptic social media post that he is standing by his work and reputation.