In 2020, Kim Chiu, a beloved figure in Philippine entertainment, faced a year of significant events and growth. One of the most impactful events was her reaction to the ABS-CBN shutdown.

On May 5, the country’s largest media network, where Kim had built much of her career, was taken off-air due to the expiration of its franchise, which had not been renewed. Many fans and industry members were vocal about the impact, as the shutdown affected thousands of employees and millions of viewers.

In an emotional public statement, Kim questioned, “Why take away ordinary people’s dreams?”

She expressed empathy for both the staff and the viewers who relied on ABS-CBN for employment, entertainment, and information. Her stance highlighted the broader impact of the closure on Filipino lives and underscored her support for media freedom​.

Not long after, Kim found herself in the spotlight again due to a viral video in which she discussed the network closure through an analogy about classroom rules, popularly referred to as the “bawal lumabas” statement. This off-the-cuff comment drew widespread attention on social media, leading to both support and criticism.

Instead of shying away, Kim turned this experience into a creative opportunity. Embracing the viral moment, she transformed the phrase into a song titled “Bawal Lumabas,” which she released with accompanying merchandise. Her creative response and the proceeds from her merchandise line were directed toward helping those in need, showcasing her resilience and ability to turn a challenging moment into a platform for charity and positivity.

Throughout the year, Kim also openly addressed the struggles of maintaining mental health under public scrutiny. In interviews, she shared how she practices self-care to cope with the pressures of fame, acknowledging that being in the public eye often feels like “being under a microscope.”

Kim highlighted the importance of grounding oneself amid criticism and negativity and her commitment to mental well-being. This honesty resonated with fans, offering insight into the pressures of her profession and her approach to resilience.