CNN Philippines to stop operations from January 31 due to financial losses

CNN Philippines will stop operations from January 31 due to "significant financial losses", its owner announced Monday, in the latest blow for the media industry in the Southeast Asian nation.

The broadcaster began operating in the Philippines in 2015 as a franchise of CNN, delivering mainly English-language news on free-to-air, cable and pay television.

Staff were told Monday of the decision to shut down news and production operations on all platforms.

"The decision follows significant financial losses sustained over the past years, despite rigorous efforts to adapt and innovate in a rapidly evolving and challenging media landscape," CNN Philippines-owner Nine Media Corporation said, without providing details.

"We are aware of the impact of this closure on our valued employees and talents, we assure all affected staff will be provided with severance packages."

The closure will affect around 300 employees, a member of staff told AFP on the condition of anonymity.