This maiden episode of OPEN BAR was recorded on March 7, 2020 and was supposed to be released on March 15 amid the controversy on the ABS-CBN franchise. But the COVID-19 pandemic overtook all our attention. Then the NTC’s May 5 cease and desist order against ABS-CBN’s broadcast operations has caused a wave of reactions from netizens.

In this episode we are joined by Atty. Romel R. Bagares who guides us beyond the headlines and into the socio-legal issues surrounding the ABS-CBN franchise.

In a special segment, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Eastern Visayas Region and the IBP Cebu Chapter brief us about their programs and initiatives in moving forward amid the uncertain times of the COVID-19 pandemic.