BROADCAST journalist Anthony Taberna, a member of the Iglesia ni Cristo, announced his leave of absence from ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corp. Sunday, citing his inability to credibly comment on issues besetting his church.
He said his decision had nothing to do with the recent shooting attack on his coffee shop in Quezon City.
In an Instagram post, Taberna said he was leaving his regular television program “Umagang kay Ganda” and evening radio program “Dos por Dos” with a heavy heart.
“I am saddened that I have to leave because of what is happening. I, as an active member of INC, am in a situation that I may no longer be that credible to discuss the current issues besetting us. I stand by my religion, but I, too, have the responsibility as a journalist,” his message read.
He said ABS-CBN immediately approved his leave until such a time that the INC crisis has subsided.
“I thank you for understanding me during difficult times,” he posted.
Before his announcement, Taberna and his wife Rossell took part in the mass action of INC members on Shaw Boulevard and Edsa in Mandaluyong City.
He appealed for sobriety and urged the 1,700 crowd to maintain peace and order.
He also said the INC members came to join the rally voluntarily.
The religious group was on its fourth day of protests against Justice Secretary Leila de Lima’s decision to act on cases of harassment and illegal detention filed by an expelled minister, Isaias Samson Jr., a first cousin of Taberna’s mother.
Several men opened fire on Taberna’s Ka Tunying’s Cafe on August 28 at 2 a.m. No one was hurt.
