Victorico “Ricky” Vargas, who took charge after Jane Basas’ abrupt departure in January, began a two-month medical leave on Sept. 1 this year.
MediaQuest, part of the PLDT Group, controls major assets including TV5, Cignal, The Philippine STAR and BusinessWorld.
“Please be advised that I will be on medical leave for a couple of months, starting 1st September 2026,” Vargas said in an internal announcement seen by InsiderPH.
The longtime MVP lieutenant previously led Maynilad Water Services Inc., currently chairs The Philippine STAR and has held prominent leadership roles across Philippine basketball and boxing.
Group chief financial officer Christopher Lizo will serve as MediaQuest officer-in-charge while retaining his concurrent role as OIC of Cignal.
MediaQuest director Chaye Revilla will oversee TV5 and its entertainment business, working closely with Lizo.
The transition could draw Pangilinan more deeply into MediaQuest, continuing his practice of taking a direct role when key businesses face major changes.
“I have also requested our Chairman, MVP, to spend as much time as he can spare,” Vargas said.
“I enjoin everyone’s cooperation, support, and continued commitment during this period,” he added.
—Edited by Miguel R. Camus
