A sudden and explosive turn of events has thrust veteran broadcast journalist Julius Babao into the eye of a media storm. The respected TV5 anchor has gone on leave, citing the unforgettable words: “I cannot be bought.” His terse proclamation comes amid swirling allegations of a ₱10 million bribery deal, turning a once-routine lifestyle feature into a controversy that’s shaking media ethics to its core.

Babao’s unexpected absence from the primetime newscast Frontline Pilipinas—where he co-anchors alongside Cheryl Cosim—sent ripples across the newsroom. Ed Lingao and Lourd de Veyra filled in, but speculation was already rife. Officially labeled as “on leave,” insiders whisper that the timing coincides with renewed scrutiny over a previous interview Babao conducted with the Discaya couple.

In mid-2024, Babao featured contractor Sarah and Curlee Discaya in a “rags-to-riches” lifestyle profile on his YouTube show Julius UNPLUGGED. At the time, it was seen as inspirational content—until Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto ignited the fuse, carving out a public attack that questioned the motives behind the piece. In a now-viral post, Sotto suggested that journalists willing to interview politically ambitious contractors might be accepting hefty payouts—specifically, ₱10 million—implying compromised integrity. Though he didn’t name names, Babao and fellow veteran Korina Sanchez found themselves directly under fire.

In response, Babao issued a firm denial. He clarified that the Discaya feature was a “lifestyle story,” filmed well before any political ambitions surfaced, and was not compensated with millions but created to inspire viewers. “There is no truth to the claim that ₱10 million was involved,” he stated.

Days later, Babao took to social media again—this time with a cryptic and emotionally charged post. Quoting famed American journalist Walter Winchell, he wrote, “Now I know who my true friends are. Thank you for your love and understanding. God bless you all.” Industry watchers interpreted the message as signaling a betrayal or fractured trust behind closed doors.

Support has since poured in from his peers. Commentators and fellow reporters rallied behind the long-time journalist, asserting the importance of journalistic integrity and the distinction between news and lifestyle formats. Meanwhile, TV5 has remained silent on when—or if—Babao will return to the anchor desk.

For a man whose career spans decades—from ABS-CBN’s TV Patrol and Bandila, to Frontline Pilipinas—this is more than a temporary absence. It’s a public showdown over the values at the heart of journalism—integrity, transparency, and the sanctity of public trust. As of now, the question hangs heavy: will this leave mark a new chapter in Babao’s storied career, or the beginning of something much more profound?