SEC summons ABS-CBN, key officers in Lopez-linked case

MANILA, Philippines – Media giant ABS-CBN Corp. has received a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) summons over a complaint filed by Federico “Piki” Lopez, marking a widening Lopez family dispute.

In a disclosure on Monday, ABS-CBN said the SEC served summons on the company, its subsidiary The Big Dipper Digital Content & Design, Inc., and officials chair Martin L. Lopez, president and CEO Karlo L. Katigbak, and chief financial officer Ricardo B. Tan Jr.

READ: ABS-CBN unfazed by Piki’s complaint to SEC

The complaint, filed on May 6, 2026 by Piki through counsel Gonzalo Ocampo, was docketed as Case No. AHCL-001.

Likewise, ABS-CBN disclosed that an ad hoc committee had been formed to investigate matters concerning the Lopez Group of Companies. The SEC has directed the respondents to submit their verified answer within 30 days from receipt of the summons.  

“The respondents will respond to the complaint through the proper legal channels in accordance with the applicable laws and rules, in due course,” the company said.  

Moreover, the complaint stems from earlier allegations by Piki against ABS-CBN executives of fraud, misrepresentation, and dissipation of corporate assets.

READ: Piki Lopez asks SEC to probe ABS-CBN execs

The filing also widened the rift between Piki and the Lopez family majority, extending to First Gen Corp. and the Lopez fa

Meanwhile, the SEC has yet to rule on the merits of the complaint. At this stage, the summons formally notifies the respondents giving them an opportunity to respond to the allegations. /pai INQ