The true-crime digital series “Philippines’ Most Shocking Stories” returned for a second season yesterday, October 28, on ABS-CBN News Channel’s YouTube and iWant with a gripping premiere episode on the 14-year manhunt for cult leader Ruben Ecleo – one of the country’s most haunting cases of crime, faith, and justice.
After earning almost six million views and strong engagement online in its first season, the series once again dives into the country’s most haunting real-life crimes that stunned the public, tragedies that changed lives, and mysteries that continue to raise questions decades later.
Among the stories revisited this season are tales of power, faith, fame, and justice, including the shocking abduction and killing of Korean businessman Jee Ick Joo, the 2009 Maguindanao Massacre, the 1967 Maggie dela Riva rape case, and many more.
Leading this season are journalists Lyza Aquino, MJ Felipe, Jeff Caparas, Jessie Cruzat, and Jeff Canoy, who bring their experience, insight, and empathy to stories that have long shocked the Filipino public.
‘I feel so happy and honored to be part of this new season,’ shared Lyza. ‘When I first heard ABS-CBN News was planning a project like this, I prayed really hard to be part of it. I’m a fan of true-crime podcasts, so this project is truly a dream come true.’
Unlike traditional news reports that focus on immediate facts, ‘Philippines’ Most Shocking Stories’ allows for a more immersive approach. ‘We don’t just tell people what happened; we explore the how and why, and even the emotional aftermath,’ she explained. ‘It’s a more reflective kind of storytelling that allows for emotion and deeper understanding.”
According to the show’s supervising producer, Jeff Canoy, the second season continues ABS-CBN News’ evolution in digital journalism. ‘Our reporters piece together stories that audiences may have followed before, but now we can add context, insights, and new perspectives that only come with time,’ said Jeff.
‘Philippines’ Most Shocking Stories’ bridges generations of viewers from those who lived through these events, to younger audiences discovering them for the first time. Each episode offers not just a retelling, but a reckoning with truth, accountability, and the human stories behind the nation’s darkest headlines.
‘Philippines’ Most Shocking Stories Season 2′ airs on the ABS-CBN News Channel YouTube and iWant.