Wednesday, December 4, 2019

LOOK: Proposed ABS-CBN program schedule

As part of revitalization, the main ABS-CBN channel will revamp it's daily program schedule by next year.

No more Kapamilya Blockbusters, KB Family Weekend & Ang Hari ng FPJ on ABS-CBN, Tagalog-dubbed Hollywood series, star-studded Christmas & Summer Station ID of ABS-CBN, Tapusin na ang FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano.

Sunday's Best on ABS-CBN will remain (since 2006), with more and more foreign movies in English-audio language and Filipino classic and current movies in digitally remastered and restored in 1080p HD widescreen and 4K UHD, as well as TV specials and national events

ABS-CBN Regional on all stations, would be revert back to ABS-CBN Nationwide.

Ibabalik ang Alas Singko Y Medya pag 5:30 (kapalit ng Umagang Kay Ganda, moving its timeslot from 5), Educational TV-produced shows pag 9, followed by cartoon shows (replacing Kapamilya Blockbusters), Today with Kris pag 11, longest-running noontime variety-show Magandang Tanghali, Bayan o MTB pag 12 pero mananatiling karibal sa show ng Eat Bulaga! sa GMA, pati ang Sunday musical variety show ASAP Natin 'to! back again to ASAP, SNN: Showbiz News Ngayon ni Boy Abunda pag 1:30, merger with SNN (1st incarnation) and Tonight with Boy Abunda, pamaagang timeslot ang mga local drama sa hapon (Kapamilya Gold) pag 2:00, then Star Music Video at 3:25, tsaka yung mga telenovelas pag 3:30, yung mga anime series sa hapon pag 4, original timeslot ng TV Patrol Regional sa hapon pag 5 p.m. Aired over ABS-CBN Regional stations nationwide, ang live program Rated K ni Korina Sanchez sa hapon pag 5:30, reformatted from magazine talk show on Sunday, and merger with Hoy Gising! and Balitang K, longest-running evening newscast TV Patrol, ibabalik sa pamaagang timeslot pag 6, pamaagang timeslot ang mga local drama (Primetime Bida) pag 6:30, mga weekly shows sa gabi pag 8 (including Maalaala Mo Kaya will be moving back to Thursday nights at 9:30), ang English newscast The World Tonight pag 11 tsaka ibabalik din ang XXX: Exklusibong, Explosibong, Exposé, Patrol ng Pilipino, Oh No, It's Johnny! at Ryan, Ryan, Musikahan. (The new version of XXX hosted by Julius Babao, Anthony Taberna and Zen Hernandez.)

Please revive again The Weekend News in English on Saturday and Sunday nights.

Ibabalik ang old Sunday programs gaya ng StarStudio (drama anthology), Your Song, Love Spell, The Buzz, Knowledge Power, Sharon at Wansapanataym (replacing KB Family Weekend, Banana Sundae, Ang Hari: FPJ on ABS-CBN & Rated J), Hourly Station ID ng ABS-CBN (2014) (created by Star Animation), followed by MTRCB Advisory before the next programming. (The original form of MTRCB Advisory says: Rated PG - ANG SUSUNOD NA PROGRAMA AY RATED “PG.” ITO AY NANGANGAILANGAN NG PATNUBAY AT GABAY NG MAGULANG PARA SA MGA BATANG MANONOOD. and Rated G - ANG SUSUNOD NA PROGRAMA AY RATED “G”. ITO AY PUWEDE SA LAHAT NG MANONOOD.), Christmas Message and Hourly S/ID ng ABS-CBN (every December only), starts from December 1 to January 1 each of the year similar to PTV/NBN-4, ABC/TV5/5, RPN-9 & IBC-13 and new sign-on and sign-off sequences ng ABS-CBN Channel 2: Announcement (without voice-over) in original form, the new version of station message voiced by Peter Musngi with new permit number, plus new Professional Electronics and Communications Engineers, Electronics and Communications Engineers and Technicians (PECE’s, ECE’s and ECT’s), First Class Radio-Telephone Operators and Second-Class Radio Telegraph Operator with license number and list of stations nationwide, followed by the Philippine National Anthem 1998 Centennial Version during the Presidency of Joseph Estrada (full, digitally remastered and restored version in 1080p HD widescreen and 4K UHD with end tagline with voiceover saying: “Ang watawat at pambansang awit ay sagisag ng ating pagka-Pilipino. Igalang natin at ipagpitagan ang mga ito” plus Philippine Centennial Logo and special thanks to) (replacing the 2013 Version produced by ABS-CBN) then a logo bumper (2014 version) and message saying “Ladies and gentlemen, in a few seconds, we will be on simultaneous satellite broadcast. Please stand by”, then a short patriotic message, teaser and station ID on sign-on.

ABS-CBN retains the 2016 logo and the classic slogan, “In the Service of the Filipino” which used since 1992.

ABS-CBN Channel 2 retains its 24-hour broadcasting service (since 2016) with the airing of O Shopping during late nights, except Tuesday mornings from 2 am to 3:55 am (sign-off) for its regular transmitter maintenance and scheduled interruptions during the Paschal Triduum of the Holy Week.

Sana maibabalik yung mga original timeslot sa ABS-CBN Channel 2 mula Lunes hanggang Linggo noong 90's at hindi na totoong itatapat o karibal ng permanenteng timeslot o block sa GMA-7 bilang Kapuso Network.

ABS-CBN was now revamping its content strategy to compete with other stations.

“I think the entertainment, lifestyle and news and current affairs will stay, substantially as it is. The sports content will still be there and we’re expanding the sports content. Then there will be some entertainment shows that we will be putting in,” he said.

“It’s not a shutdown situation for ABS-CBN. I think it’s a selective kind of programming. I think it’s the only way for ABS-CBN to compete. The viewing habits for video are slowly changing, so we want to move in the direction rather than stay with the legacy where we are not competitive,” the network said.

Sana ibalik ng ABS-CBN ung Ganitong Style ng TV Patrol Mananatili ang Segment na Star Patrol more on National, Local and World News then tapyasan nang Oras from 90 mins To 30 mins

Monday-Friday

  • 3:55 am - Kape't Pandasal
  • 4 am - Gising Pilipinas
  • 5 am - Balita Alas-Singko ng Umaga
  • 5:30 am - Alas Singko Y Medya (Hosted by Julius Babao and Christine Bersola-Babao, Co-hosts Eagle Riggs, Aida Gonzalez, Alvin Elchico, Mike Cohen, Kyle Balili, Bayani Agbayani, Franzen Fajardo, Ricky Velasco, Bianca Gonzalez, Kim Atienza, Anthony Taberna, Winnie Cordero, Ariel Ureta, Amy Perez, Jorge Cariño, Tina Marasigan, Gretchen Ho, Kori Quintos-Florita, Ariella Arida, Jeff Canoy, Bryan Termulo, Hanz Cua, Marlo Mortel, K Brosas, Long Mejia, Dawn Chang, Tommy Esguerra, Rufa Mae Quinto-Magallanes, KaladKaren Davila, Lady Pipay Navarro, Jacque Gonzaga, Isabella Vinzon and Justin Cuyugan) (Live)
  • 8 am - Teysi (Hosted by Tessie Tomas) (Live)
  • 9 am - Sineskwela
  • 9:30 am - 
    • Monday and Wednesday-Friday: Cartoons 
    • Tuesday: Mathdali (Hosted by Robi Domingo)
  • 10 am - Cartoons
  • 11 am - Today with Kris Aquino (Hosted by Kris Aquino) (Live)
  • 12 nn - Magandang Tanghali, Bayan! (Hosted by Randy Santiago, John Estrada, Willie Revillame, Roderick Paulate, Vanessa del Bianco, Amy Perez-Castillo, Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo, Claudine Barretto-Santiago, Jolina Magdangal-Escueta, Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio, Marvin Agustin, G. Toengi-Walters, Diether Ocampo, Wowie de Guzman, Belinda Panelo, Bayani Agbayani, Gary Lim, Dominic Ochoa, Vina Morales, Angela Velez, Camille Prats-Yambao, Dennis Padilla, Michelle Bayle, Karel Marquez, Aurora Halili, Bojo Molina, The Powerboys, Marissa Sanchez, Anne Curtis-Heussaff, Chary Lopez, Kiray Celis, Mylene Dizon, Regine Tolentino, Kaye Abad-Castillo, Paula Peralejo, Toni Gonzaga-Soriano, Pokwang, Bianca Manalo, John Prats, Matteo Guidicelli and Melai Cantiveros-Francisco plus dance performers Hashtags and GirlTrends / GT) (Live)
  • 1:30 pm - SNN: Showbiz News Ngayon (Hosted by Boy Abunda and Kris Aquino) (Live)
  • 2:30 pm - Drama / Star Music Video
  • 3 pm - Telenovela
  • 3:30 pm - Anime
  • 4 pm - Anime
  • 4:30 pm - Shoutout! (Hosted by Erich Gonzales, Enchong Dee, Robi Domingo, Sam Concepcion, Arron Villaflor, and Empress Schuck) (Live)
  • 5:30 pm - Rated K: Handa Na Ba Kayo? (Hosted by Korina Sanchez) (Live)
  • 6 pm - TV Patrol (Anchored by Julius Babao, Bernadette Sembrano and Ted Failon) (Live)
  • 6:30 pm - Drama
  • 7 pm - Drama
  • 7:30 pm - Pilipinas, Game Ka Na Ba? (Hosted by Edu Manzano)
  • 8 pm - 
    • OK Fine, 'To Ang Gusto Nyo! (Starring Aga Muhlach, Edu Manzano, Bayani Agbayani, Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio, Nikki Valdez, Michelle Bayle, Heart Evangelista-Escudero, Onyok Velasco, Christian Vasquez)
    • Oka Tokat (Starring Paul Salas, Sue Anna Ramirez, Jane Oineza, Joshua Colet and Makisig Morales) (Tuesday)
    • Toda Max (Starring Vhong Navarro, Robin Padilla, Angel Locsin and Pokwang) (Wednesday)
    • Attagirl (Starring Vanessa Del Bianco, Andrea del Rosario, Desiree del Valle, Michelle Bayle and Jessa Zaragosa-Avanzado) (Thursday)
    • Banana Split (Starring Angelica Panganiban, Cristine Reyes, Roxanne Guinoo-Yap, Valerie Concepcion, Dianne Medina, Princess Ryan, RR Enriquez, John Prats, Jason Gainza, Pooh, Badjie Mortiz, Zanjoe Marudo, Pokwang, Niña Jose-Quiambao, A.A. Ponce, Ryan Bang, Jobert Austria, Sunshine Garcia-Castro, Melai Cantiveros, Jef Gaitan, Boom Labrusca, Manuel Chua, Alex Gonzaga, Kean Cipriano, JC de Vera, Aiko Climaco, Ritz Azul and Wacky Kiray) (Friday)
  • 9 pm - 
    • STAR Cinema Presents (Friday)
  • 9:30 pm - 
    • STAR Mini-Series (Monday)
    • Bora (Starring Piolo Pascual, Diether Ocampo, Jericho Rosales, Bernard Palanca, Carlos Agassi, Roderick Paulate and Luis Manzano) (Tuesday)
    • Whattamen (Starring Marvin Agustin, Dominic Ochoa, and Ai-Ai de las Alas-Sibayan) (Wednesday)
    • Maalaala Mo Kaya? (Hosted by Charo Santos-Concio) (Thursday)
  • 11 pm - The World Tonight (Anchored by Tina Monzon-Palma, Tony Velasquez and Karen Davila) (Live)
  • 11:30 pm - 
    • Monday: XXX: Exklusibong, Explosibong, Exposé (Hosted by Julius Babao, Zen Hernandez and Anthony Taberna)
    • Tuesday: The Correspondents (Hosted by Karen Davila and Abner Mercado)
    • Wednesday: Oh No! It's Johnny! (Hosted by Johnny Litton, Maurice Arcache and Issa Litton)
    • Thursday: Ryan, Ryan Musikahan (Hosted by Ryan Cayabyab)
    • Friday: S.O.C.O. (Scene of The Crime Operatives) (Hosted by Gus Abelgas)
  • 12:30 am - Martin Late at Night (Hosted by Martin Nievera) (Live)
  • 1:30 am - The Score (Hosted by Mico Halili) (delayed telecast)
  • 2 am to 3:55 am - O Shopping


Saturday


  • 4 am - O Shopping
  • 5 am - Kape at Salita (Hosted by Bro. Bo Sanchez, Bro. Alvin Barcelona, Bro. Randy Borromeo, and Sr. Rissa Singson-Kawpeng)
  • 6 am - Salamat Dok! (Hosted by Bernadette Sembrano and Alvin Elchico)
  • 7 am - Family Rosary Crusade (Hosted by Rev. Fr. Allan Samonte) (Blocktimer)
  • 8 am - Ang Iglesia ni Cristo (Blocktimer)
  • 8:30 am - Dok Ricky, Pedia (Starring Dominic Ochoa, Louise Abuel, Yen Santos and Alessandra de Rossi)
  • 9 am - Sarap TV
  • 9:30 am - Pahina
  • 10 am - Coke Studio
  • 10:30 am - At Home Ka Dito (Hosted by Charlene Gonzales-Muhlach)
  • 11:30 am - Perfect Moments (Hosted by Jodi Sta. Maria, Angel Jacob and Rosanne Prieto)
  • 12 nn - Magandang Tanghali, Bayan! (Hosted by Randy Santiago, John Estrada, Willie Revillame, Roderick Paulate, Vanessa del Bianco, Amy Perez-Castillo, Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo, Claudine Barretto-Santiago, Jolina Magdangal-Escueta, Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio, Marvin Agustin, G. Toengi-Walters, Diether Ocampo, Wowie de Guzman, Belinda Panelo, Bayani Agbayani, Gary Lim, Dominic Ochoa, Vina Morales, Angela Velez, Camille Prats, Dennis Padilla, Michelle Bayle, Karel Marquez, Aurora Halili, Bojo Molina, The Powerboys, Marissa Sanchez, Anne Curtis-Heussaff, Chary Lopez, Kiray Celis, Mylene Dizon, Regine Tolentino, Kaye Abad-Castillo, Paula Peralejo, Toni Gonzaga-Soriano, Pokwang, Bianca Manalo, John Prats, Matteo Guidicelli and Melai Cantiveros-Francisco plus dance performers Hashtags and GirlTrends / GT)
  • 2:30 pm - Entertainment Live! (Hosted by Bianca Gonzalez, Toni Gonzaga-Soriano, Mariel Rodriguez-Padilla, Luis Manzano, Nikki Gil-Albert and Ogie Diaz)
  • 4 pm - STAR Magic Presents
  • 5 pm - Gokada Let's Go! (Starring Kim Chiu, Gerald Anderson, Gina Pareño, Matteo Guidicelli, Eda Nolan, Joem Bascon, Alex Gonzaga, Bangs Garcia, Badjie Mortiz, Kontin Roque, Jana Pablo and Dianne Medina)
  • 6 pm - Magandang Gabi, Bayan (Hosted by Noli de Castro) (Live)
  • 7 pm - Home Sweetie Home (Starring John Lloyd Cruz, Ellen Adarna, Toni Gonzaga-Soriano, Alex Gonzaga, Miles Ocampo, Clarence Delgado, Allegra Valiente, Bayani Agbayani, Rio Locsin, Edgar Mortiz, Jobert Austria, Nonong Ballinan, Fumiya Sankai, Yamyam Gucong and Jordan Ford)
  • 8 pm - Game/Reality Show
    • Celebrity Duets: Philippine Edition
    • Kakasa Ka Ba sa Grade 5?
    • Idol Philippines
    • The Kids' Choice
    • Little Big Shots
    • Pilipinas Got Talent
    • Pinoy Boyband Superstar
    • Search for the Star in a Million
    • Star Power
    • The Voice of the Philippines
    • The Voice Kids
    • The Voice Teens
    • The X Factor Philippines
    • U Can Dance
    • World of Dance Philippines
    • Your Face Sounds Familiar
    • Your Face Sounds Familiar: Kids
    • Your Moment
  • 9 pm - Arriba, Arriba! (Starring Jolina Magdangal-Escueta with Camille Prats-Yambao, Sandy Andolong-de Leon, John Lapus and Rufa Mae Quinto-Magallanes)
  • 10 pm - Bida si Mister, Bida si Misis (Starring Vhong Navarro, Cesar Montano and Maricel Soriano)
  • 11 pm - Laugh Out Loud (Hosted by Luis Manzano and Alodia Gosiengfiao)
  • 12 mn - The Bottomline with Boy Abunda
  • 1 am - F (Hosted by Cheska Garcia-Kramer, Angel Aquino, Daphne Osena-Paez and Amanda Griffin)
  • 1:30 am - Sports Unlimited (Hosted by Dyan Castillejo and Marc Nelson)
  • 2 am - The Weekend News (Live)
  • 2:30 to 3:30 am - O Shopping


Sunday


  • 5:30 am - Pluma (Blocktimer)
  • 6 am - Salamat Dok! (Hosted by Bernadette Sembrano and Alvin Elchico)
  • 7 am - Sunday TV Mass
  • 8 am - Cinema, Cinema, Cinema (Blocktimer)
  • 8:30 am - Bakbakan (Hosted by Dyan Castillejo)
  • 9:30 am - Matanglawin (Hosted by Kim Atienza)
  • 10:30 am - G Diaries (Hosted by Ernie Lopez)
  • 11 am - StarStudio (Drama Anthology)
  • 12 nn - ASAP (Hosted by Martin Nievera, Vhong Navarro, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Piolo Pascual, Vina Morales, Luis Manzano, Erik Santos, Gary Valenciano, Sarah Geronimo, Toni Gonzaga, Billy Crawford, Robi Domingo, Ogie Alcasid and Regine Velasquez-Alcasid) (Live)
  • 2 pm - Your Song presents
  • 3 pm - Love Spell presents
  • 4 pm - The Buzz (Hosted by Boy Abunda, Kris Aquino and Toni Gonzaga) (Live)
  • 5:30 pm - Knowledge Power (Hosted by Kim Atienza) (Live)
  • 6 pm - Sharon (Hosted by Sharon Cuneta) (Live)
  • 7 pm -
    • Wansapanatym
    • Komiks presents
    • Agimat: Ang Alamat ni Ramon Revilla
  • 8 pm - Game/Reality Show
    • Celebrity Duets: Philippine Edition
    • Kakasa Ka Ba sa Grade 5?
    • Idol Philippines
    • The Kids' Choice
    • Little Big Shots
    • Pilipinas Got Talent
    • Pinoy Boyband Superstar
    • Search for the Star in a Million
    • Star Power
    • The Voice of the Philippines
    • The Voice Kids
    • The Voice Teens
    • The X Factor Philippines
    • U Can Dance
    • World of Dance Philippines
    • Your Face Sounds Familiar
    • Your Face Sounds Familiar: Kids
    • Your Moment
  • 9 pm - George and Cecil (Starring Judy Ann Santos and Ryan Agoncillo)
  • 10 pm - Sunday’s Best
  • 12 mn - Business and Leisure (Hosted by Ray Louis Gamboa and Suzy Gamboa)
  • 1 am - The Weekend News (Live)
  • 1:30 am - Urban Zone (Hosted by Daphne Oseña Paez)
  • 2 am to 3:55 am - O Shopping

ABS-CBN stocks fall after Duterte’s threats of not renewing franchise

While the non-renewal of the franchise will hit ABS-CBN hard, a business expert says the company is likely to survive due to its diversified revenue stream

Shares of media giant ABS-CBN fell by 2.6% on Wednesday, December 4, a day after President Rodrigo Duterte again lashed out at the network and threatened not to renew its franchise.

Shares of the Lopez-led TV network closed at P16.96, lower by 0.46 points from its previous end price of P17.72 on Tuesday. The price is a 6-month low since June 2019.

It has settled within the P17 to P18 price range for several months now, but the P16-level has been a rare low for the stock.

ABS-CBN’s stock price has been on a downward trend since Duterte rose to the presidency on June 30, 2016.

Philstocks head of research Jun Calaycay told Rappler that the renewal of the franchise will definitely be appetizing for investors, as it can longer continue its legacy business as a broadcast network.

“The ABS-CBN franchise issue has become more political than anything else. It is being held hostage under the dictates of the whims of the President,” Calaycay said.

However, the network will likely survive even without the franchise, according to Calaycay.

The company has invested in TV on-demand applications and has other sources of revenues.

“If you look at the revenue breakdown, it sources its revenues not just from advertisements, but merchandise sale as well, and the latter consists quite a significant share of around 30% to 40%. They’re much more diversified than GMA 7,” he said.

Manila Water dips too

Meanwhile, Manila Water, another company that got the ire of Duterte, also suffered a dip in its share price.

Manila Water stocks were among the worst performers on Wednesday, falling by 4.79% to P17.90.

Metro Manila west zone water concessionaire Maynilad was also affected by the tirades. Companies that own and operate it, namely Metro Pacific Investments Corporation and DMCI Holdings, plunged by 10.7% and 3.9%, respectively.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index fell flat at 7,815, down by just over 39 points from its previous close.

A total of 122 companies declined, while 58 advanced and 47 remain unchanged. Net foreign buying stood at P922.2 million.

https://www.rappler.com/business/246435-abs-cbn-stocks-fall-duterte-threats-not-renewing-franchise

May pag-asa pa: House may tackle ABS-CBN franchise bill early next year – Cayetano

By JOHN CARLO M. CAHINHINAN

House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano said there is still hope that the franchise application of broadcast giant ABS-CBN may hurdle congressional approval before it expires by March 2020.

Cayetano’s remarks came following House Committee on Legislative Franchises chair Franz “Chicoy” Alvarez’s (Palawan) statement that there is a slim chance his panel may tackle this year proposed legislations that seek to grant the Kapamilya network a fresh-year franchise amid its impending expiration by March 2020.

According to Cayetano, there is “more than enough time” for Alvarez’s panel to tackle it by “January (or) February.”

“March pa naman ‘yung expiration ng franchise,” said Cayetano.

But Cayetano admitted that uncertainty still remains over the status of the ABS-CBN’s franchise application following President Rodrigo Duterte’s latest threat to block its renewal.

“Depende sa kalalabasan ng hearing. I cannot preempt the committee or the issues that will be taken,” said Cayetano’s response when asked if Congress can approve the Kapamilya network’s franchise bill ahead of its expiration in March 2020.

ABS-CBN needs to secure the passage of their congressional franchise on or before March 30, 2020—the expiration date set by its current franchise under Republic Act No. 7966—or the network will have to cease operating as a broadcast network if Congress fails to act on the franchise bill.

https://politics.com.ph/may-pag-asa-pa-house-may-tackle-abs-cbn-franchise-bill-early-next-year-cayetano/

Congress will fair on ABS-CBN franchise extension – Cayetano

With only a maximum 36 Congress session days left to act on legislative proposals, mass media giant ABS-CBN still has enough time to have their expiring legislative franchise extended, House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano disclosed yesterday.

Cayetano said Congress will be fair in dealing with the case of one of the country’s leading broadcast network that was castigated numerous times by President Duterte for various alleged offenses.

“I reiterate that Congress would be fair, will always have a fair hearing,” Cayetano declared in a Facebook Live interview yesterday.

He pointed out that the Lopez-owned network is aware that Congress has prioritized the proposed 2020 national budget and administration-backed revenue bills over all other measures.

“Pero we have more than enough time to tackle it in January, February dahil March pa naman ‘yung expiration ng franchise,” said the House leader.

There are seven bills proposing the renewal of the ABS-CBN legislative franchise for another 25 years.

Among the authors are House Deputy Speakers Vilma Santos (NP, Batangas); Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales (NP, Pampanga); Johnny Pimentel (PDP-Laban, Surigao del Sur); Reps. Sol Aragones (NPC, Laguna); Doy Leachon (PDP-Laban, Mindoro Oriental), and Jericho Nograles (PBA partylist).

Santos was a contract actress of the network while Aragones used to work as senior reporter for the embattled network.

Asked if there is an assurance that ABS-CBN will continue to operate past March 20, Cayetano said this will depend on the outcome of the hearing to be conducted by the House Committee on Legislative Franchises chaired by Palawan Rep. Chicoy Alvarez.

On Duterte’s apparent displeasure of the network, Cayetano said his stand on the issue will be respected by the  House. (Ben Rosario)

http://tempo.com.ph/2019/12/04/congress-will-fair-on-abs-cbn-franchise-extension-cayetano/

Don’t expect franchise renewal, Duterte tells ABS-CBN

President Rodrigo Duterte said he is not softening his stance against the franchise renewal of major television network ABS-CBN.

Duterte said  ABS-CBN will definitely be “out” next year.

Its contract is set to end by March 2020 unless Congress and the President approve its extension.
“Ang inyong franchise mag-end next year  (Your franchise will end next year). If you are expecting na ma-renew ‘yan (a renewa), I’m sorry. You’re out. I will see to it that you’re out,” said Duterte during the oath-taking of newly appointed government officials in Malacañang.

Duterte has repeatedly slammed the network.

Last year, he stood firm against the renewal of its franchise, citing its failure to air his presidential campaign ads in 2016, even though the network was paid to do so.

“Ang ABS-CBN, ‘yung bunganga ng inyong interes, they protect you...Kayo ngayon, mag-renew kayo ngcontract? Ilan kayong mga senador ngayon na nagbayad sa inyo na hindi ninyo pinalabas ‘yung kanila?” Duterte said.

The President said  ABS-CBN showed preference in broadcasting the political ads of former Senator Antonio Trillanes over others.

“Unang nilabas ninyo ‘yung kay Trillaness.. ‘yung using the children of a propaganda. Tinanggap ninyo ang P2 million ko, ni wala... Hindi lang ako ‘yung na-ganoon, Chiz Escudero, marami. Lahat sa Congress,” he said.

“And you want us to bow down to your wealth and money and influence? Well, not with this administration. I am for the people and I will kill for the people,” Duterte stressed.

Five bills have been filed to extend the ABS-CBN franchise for another 25 years.

Last October, House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano said  a panel from the lower chamber is set to tackle the renewal before the year ends.

However, contrary Cayetano’s statement, the chairman of the House Committee on Legislative Franchises said the House of Representatives will not tackle the bills renewing the franchise of ABS-CBN this year.

In a television interview, Palawan Rep. Franz Alvarez said his committee has no scheduled hearing until Congress adjourns for the Christmas break starting December 20.   

Cayetano has said to show fairness, the House will discuss at least the  proposed bills for the franchise renewal of the ABS-CBN.

Both House leaders did not give assurance whether the Lopez-owned company will get another 25-year franchise to operate before the expiration in March 2020.

To date there are at least six bills pending in the  committee to extend the ABS-CBN franchise for another 25 years.

Meanwhile,  Cayetano said Congress will be fair to anyone and will always have a fair hearing.

“Alam naman din ito ng management ng ABS-CBN na uunahin namin ang budget at saka  revenue bills. Pero we have more than enough time to tackle it in January, February dahil March pa naman yung expiration ng franchise,” Cayetano said in a statement.

When asked if there is a chance to be approved, the Speaker replied “Depende sa kalalabasan ng hearing. I cannot preempt the committee or the issues that will be taken.”

Meanwhile, Cayetano said the House respects the stand of  President Duterte when he strongly opposed the renewal of franchise of ABS-CBN.

“As you know he’s the President at mayroon siyang stand sa mga issue, so nirerespeto natin ‘yan. Having said,  nirerespeto rin ng ating Pangulo ‘yung proseso, so, hintayin na lang natin ‘yung proseso, but even the President admits that there has to be a fair process,” Cayetano pointed out.

All franchise bills must first be approved by the House before they go to the Senate.

https://journal.com.ph/news/nation/dont-expect-franchise-renewal-duterte-tells-abs-cbn

PNP all set to secure Davao de Oro plebiscite

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said security measures are in place to ensure the successful conduct of the special plebiscite on the renaming of the province of Compostela Valley to Davao de Oro on Saturday.

PNP spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Bernard Banac said PNP officer-in-charge, Lt Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa, through the PNP permanent liaison with the Commission on Elections (Comelec), has assured the readiness of the Compostela Valley Police Provincial Office under Col. Joselito Loriza, to perform official functions as deputized agents of Comelec for this plebiscite.

“The PNP high command has alerted the PNP Regional Office in Southern Mindanao, particularly the Compostela Valley Police Provincial Office (PPO), to provide all available assistance as deputized agents of the Commission on Elections for the holding of a special plebiscite,” Banac said in a statement.

He said the ComVal PPO will be primarily responsible for enforcing rules and regulations of the Comelec, particularly the implementation of the province-wide gun ban, liquor ban and other rules against prohibited acts.

The other Police Provincial Offices and Regional Mobile Forces under PRO-11 were also alerted to provide possible augmentation to ComVal for this security operation.

Under Memorandum Order (MO) 42 dated November 28 but released on Tuesday, Duterte concurred with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in the deputation of the PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for a referendum on the renaming of Compostella Valley to Davao de Oro province.

"Pursuant to Section 2(4), Article IX-C of the Constitution, the Comelec is empowered to deputize, with the concurrence of the President, law enforcement agencies and instrumentalities of the Government, including the AFP, for the exclusive purpose of ensuring free, orderly, honest, peaceful, and credible elections," Duterte said in the memorandum.

"By virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution and existing laws, [I] hereby concur with Comelec Resolution No. 10616, deputizing the AFP, the PNP, and other law enforcement agencies and instrumentalities of the Government, in connection with the 07 December 2019 Plebiscite in the Province of Compostela Valley," he added.

On April 7, 2019, Duterte signed Republic Act 11297 renaming Compostela Valley to Davao de Oro.

Presently, Compostela Valley is the only province in Davao Region that does not bear the name "Davao."

The Davao Region is composed of Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur, and Davao Occidental.

Under RA 11297, changing the name of Compostela Valley to Davao de Oro will need the nod of a majority of residents of the province through a plebiscite that will be conducted for its eventual ratification.

Duterte's MO 42 directs law enforcement agencies and other concerned agencies to "coordinate and cooperate with the Comelec in the performance of their duties and functions."

The memorandum, signed by Duterte on November 26, takes effect immediately.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1087909

House assures fairness in tackling ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal

Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano on Wednesday assured that the House of Representatives would be fair in tackling the bill seeking the renewal of the 25-year congressional franchise to local broadcast network ABS-CBN.

In an interview, Cayetano noted that the chamber will not have enough time to tackle the bill this year, noting that there would be enough time in January or February next year.

“I reiterate that Congress would be fair, will always have a fair hearing. Alam naman to din ng management ng ABS-CBN na uunahin namin ang budget at tsaka mga revenue bills (The ABS-CBN management knows that we will prioritize the budget and revenue bills),” Cayetano said.

“Pero (But) we have more than enough time to tackle it in January, February dahil March pa naman ‘yung expiration ng franchise (because the expiration of the franchise is still in March). Mare-renew kaya sila (Will they be renewed) by that time? Depende sa kalalabasan ng hearing (It depends on the outcome of the hearing). I cannot preempt the committee or the issues that will be taken,” he added.

On Tuesday, President Rodrigo Duterte announced that he is not bent on granting the renewal of the 25-year congressional franchise to local broadcast network ABS-CBN.

Duterte made the pronouncement before the newly-appointed government officials, as he was still irked by ABS-CBN's supposed bias by slanting reports about him.

"ABS-CBN, you're a mouthpiece of… Ang inyong franchise, mag-end next year (Your franchise will end next year)," Duterte said in a speech delivered at the Palace's Heroes Hall.

Cayetano said he respects Duterte’s stance on the matter, noting that the President also respects Congress’ processes.

“As you know he’s the President at meron siyang stand sa mga issues so nirerespeto natin yan (and he has a stand on the issues, so we respect that). Having said that nirerespeto rin ng ating pangulo yung proseso so hintayin na lang natin yung proseso na yun (the President also respects the process so let’s wait for that) but even the President admits that there has to be a fair process,” he said.

ABS-CBN's franchise is set to expire on Mar. 30, 2020.

Several bills have been filed at the House of Representatives, seeking the renewal of the local media giant's congressional franchise.

However, the House franchise committee has not tabled the proposed measures for discussion.

Radio and television broadcast firms in the country are required to seek a franchise from Congress, pursuant to Republic Act 3846.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1087883

Cayetano: 'Congress will be fair' on ABS-CBN franchise renewal

The House will not be tackling bills seeking to renew ABS-CBN Corporation's legislative franchise, which expires in March of next year, for the rest of 2019, House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano (Taguig) said on Wednesday, saying also that Congress would be "fair" in deliberating the bills.

He said the House needs to prioritize the P4.1-trillion 2020 budget bill, which both chambers of Congress have passed and which will go to the bicameral conference committee.

"I reiterate that Congress would be fair. We'll always have a fair hearing. Alam naman 'to din ng management ng ABS-CBN na inuna namin 'yung budget at saka mga revenue bills," Cayetano told reporters.

"Pero we have more than enough time, more than enough time to tackle it in January, February, dahil March pa naman 'yung expiration ng franchise."

(I reiterate that Congress would be fair. We'll always have a fair hearing. ABS-CBN's management knows that we prioritized the budget and the revenue bills. But we have more than enough time to tackle it in January, February because the expiration of the franchise is still in March.)

President Rodrigo Duterte, who has the power to approve or veto bills that Congress passes, has already said the franchise will not be renewed.

The franchise's renewal has been pending since September 15, 2014.

Their current franchise, which was approved by virtue of Republic Act No. 7966, expires on March 20, 2020, at which point their radio and broadcast operations will have to shut down if no renewal is approved.

As with all bills, the Senate must also approve a counterpart measure.

Rep. Franz Alvarez (Palawan), who chairs the House committee on legislative franchises, told CNN Philippines on Wednesday that the committee no longer has any hearings scheduled through December 20, at which point the 18th Congress would adjourn session for the holidays.

In saying this, however, Cayetano contradicted his earlier claim that the House would see to it that the issue would be tackled before the end of the year.

"Siguro before the end of the year probably the hearings will start. But we have a little bit of time naman" he was quoted as telling reporters earlier on October 29.

"Kung 'yong budget one month naipasa, definitely we [can] have hearings kasi may mga issues na kailangang i-resolve."

(If we were able to pass the budget in one month, then definitely we can have hearings because there are issues that need to be resolved.)

Duterte: If you expect your franchise to be renewed, I'm sorry

Cayetano's and Alvarez's statements came after a scathing threat made by Duterte on Tuesday that he would guarantee they would not receive a 25-year renewal.

"Ang iyong franchise mag-end next year. If you expect ma-renew 'yan, I'm sorry. I will see to it that you’re out," reiterated Duterte during a speech in front of new government officials at Malacañang, before whom he launched into another rant against what he said were oligarchs "screwing over" the country.

The chief executive's ire for the media network has extended back to 2017, when he publicly accused them of "swindling" him during his campaign.

Duterte has constantly targeted ABS-CBN, as well as the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Rappler,  for what he said was their insistence on releasing reports that put him in a bad light.

The president also said ABS-CBN did not air his paid political advertisements while they aired anti-Duterte advertisements paid for by his political rivals.

'Weapon to control free press'

Media watchdog organization Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR) in a statement released in June 2016 said that Duterte's moves against the network were signs of "congressional franchises [being used] as a weapon to control a free press."

In the same statement, CMFR argued that the dependence of broadcasting corporations on Congress and the Office of the President was a setup that was prone to abuse.

"It has not helped that Duterte himself has fanned the flames of resentment against the press by lashing out at the media in several of his now controversial press briefings," CMFR said in their statement.

"For a press used to politicians and their temperament, this is all par for the course. But what if a large and influential network – like ABS-CBN – owes its very existence to the government or, to be more specific, the now Duterte-controlled Congress?"

"The right to a free press is too precious a right to be at the disposal of government officials who, more often than not, react adversely to media coverage by using their power to stop the operations of media organizations they regard as too critical," they added.

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2019/12/04/1974234/cayetano-congress-will-be-fair-abs-cbn-franchise-renewal

Thousands of ABS CBN workers fear of losing their jobs

By Leslie Ann Aquino

Defend Job Philippines reiterated its call to President Duterte to save the jobs of the thousands of workers of ABS CBN by granting a fresh 25-year franchise to the TV network giant.

The labor group issued the appeal following the latest remark of the President that he will not sign a legislative franchise for ABS CBN. The network’s legislative franchise will expire on March 30, 2020.

Since 2018, President Duterte has been vocal on his claims of the supposed failure of ABS-CBN to air his presidential campaign advertisements in 2016, and the company’s alleged political bias.

“Being vital in operating for the next 25 years, the legislative franchise of ABS-CBN will save the jobs and source of livelihood of more than 10,000 Filipino workers and their families,” Christian Lloyd Magsoy, spokesperson of Defend Job Philippines, said in a statement.

Magsoy added: Politics and personal ires of our politicians must be set aside for the sake of the looming loss of employment and livelihood of the Filipino working force. Our workers must not be made hostage and victimized of any political actions of the government.

The group urged Duterte to just resolve his rift with the ABS-CBN management in proper venues.

“President Duterte should rethink his threat to veto the franchise of ABS-CBN and let the company smoothly operate for the sake of its workers,” Magsoy said.

The labor leader also appealed to lawmakers to set aside political patronage.

“Members of the Upper and Lower House of the 18th Congress should set aside politics and political patronage system in voting for the said measure (and) think of the benefit of the thousands of workers, employees, and talents, who are relying on the said broadcast media company,” said Magsoy.

Meanwhile, Alan Tanjusay of the Associated Labor Unions Trade Union Congress of the Philippines revealed that around 5,000 ABS-CBN employees who are working at the national and regional networks are deeply worried about the future of their jobs and the source of their livelihood in case President Duterte turns down the renewal of the network’s franchise to operate.

“Some of them came to me and said they are seriously worried every day about losing their jobs. Particularly worried are those employees who are above 35 years old who think they might be unable to get decent jobs because they think they are old and past age qualifications,” he said in a separate statement.

“Some are worried of what will happen to their families who will also be financially affected once they lose their jobs. Some of the employees future plans are on hold, and some are trying to save their salary,” added Tanjusay.

“But all of them are very worried whether the ABS CBN management will respect and honor their obligations and responsibilities under the labor laws and pay them their separation wages and benefits because some of them have worked in the network for several decades,” he said.

According to Defend Job Philippines, the TV network employs 6,730 regular employees, 900 non-regular workers and more than 3,325 talents since the end of 2018 citing the company’s report to the Securities and Exchange Commission and Philippine Stocks Exchange.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/12/04/thousands-of-abs-cbn-workers-fear-of-losing-their-jobs/

House won't tackle ABS-CBN franchise renewal bill in 2019 anymore

'We have more than enough time...to tackle it in January, February, dahil March pa naman 'yung expiration ng [ABS-CBN] franchise,' says House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano

A day after President Rodrigo Duterte's fresh tirades against ABS-CBN Corporation, the House of Representatives will continue to sit on the bills seeking to renew the franchise given to the media network.

On Wednesday, December 4, House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, a Duterte ally, said lawmakers have "more than enough time" to tackle the measure in January and February next year. ABS-CBN's legislative franchise, however, expires by March 30, 2020.

"I reiterate that Congress would be fair. We'll always have a fair hearing. Alam naman 'to din ng management ng ABS-CBN na inuna namin 'yung budget at saka mga revenue bills (ABS-CBN's management knows we prioritized the budget and the revenue bills)," Cayetano said in an ambush interview.

"Pero we have more than enough time, more than enough time to tackle it in January, February, dahil March pa naman 'yung expiration ng franchise (But we have more than enough time to tackle it in January, February because the expiration of the franchise is still in March)," added the Taguig City-Pateros congressman.

House committee on legislative franchises chairperson Franz Alvarez told CNN Philippines that his panel has no committee hearings scheduled anymore until December 20, when the 18th Congress adjourns session for the holidays.

This means there will be no committee deliberations this month for at least 5 bills in the House seeking to renew ABS-CBN's legislative franchise for another 25 years.

This goes against Cayetano's earlier pronouncement that the House would begin tackling the bills by end-2019.

On Tuesday night, December 3, Duterte once again vowed to block the renewal of the franchise of ABS-CBN, which he previously accused of "swindling" him for supposedly not airing his paid political advertisements during the 2016 presidential campaign.

Cayetano, Duterte's running mate in 2016, earlier said he has a "personal complaint" against ABS-CBN, citing the alleged unfair airtime given by the network to vice presidential candidates.

Still, the Speaker assured ABS-CBN of "fair" deliberations in the House and said Duterte "respects" the legislative process.

"As you know, he's the President at mayroon siyang stand sa mga issues so nirerespeto natin 'yan. Having said that, nirerespeto rin ng ating Pangulo 'yung proseso so hintayin na lang natin 'yung proseso na 'yun. But even the President admits that there has to be a fair process," Cayetano said.

(As you know, he's the President and he has a stand on issues so we respect that. Having said that, the President also respects the process so let's just wait for that to happen. But even the President admits there has to be a fair process.)

ABS-CBN's current franchise, which was approved through Republic Act No. 7966 on March 30, 1995, is set to expire on March 30, 2020. If the bill renewing the franchise approve or does not get signed into law, ABS-CBN would have to continue or close down its radio and television operations.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/246399-house-not-tackle-abs-cbn-franchise-renewal-bill-2019-anymore

Cayetano: We have enough time to tackle ABS-CBN franchise next year

House Speaker Alan Cayetano on Wednesday said the chamber has enough time to tackle the franchise renewal of radio-television giant ABS-CBN Corp. next year, confirming that the House would no longer tackle the franchise this year.

The Taguig-Pateros representative was asked about a report of CNN Philippines, which tagged House legislative franchises committee chair and Palawan Rep. Franz Alvarez as saying that the House would no longer tackle ABS-CBN’s franchise this year. Alvarez later confirmed this to reporters.

“Walang hearing sa December 10, walang hearing (There will be no hearing on December 10, there will be no hearing) for the year,” Alvarez said.

The chamber would go on a Christmas break from Dec. 21 until Jan. 20.

“I reiterate that Congress would be fair, will always have a fair hearing. Alam naman ito din ng management ng ABS-CBN na uunahin namin ang budget atsaka mga revenue bills,” Cayetano said in an interview.

(I reiterate that Congress would be fair, will always have a fair hearing. ABS-CBN management knows this also that we will prioritize the budget and revenue bills.)

“Pero we have more than enough time to tackle it in January, February dahil March pa naman ‘yung expiration ng franchise,” he added.

(But we have more than enough time to tackle it in January, February because the expiration of the franchise will still be in March.)

But will the network have its franchise renewed before its expiration on March 30, 2020? The Speaker could not say, for now, noting that it would depend on the panel’s discussions.

“Depende sa kalalabasan ng hearing. I cannot preempt the committee or the issues that will be taken,” he added.

(It depends on the outcome of the hearing. I cannot preempt the committee or the issues that will be taken.)

Meanwhile, House Minority Leader and Manila 6th District Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. said minority members have the freedom to decide on ABS-CBN’s franchise.

“Of course hindi ko masasabi sa majority congressman (But of course I cannot say the same with the majority congressmen),” he said in a press conference,

The six-member Makabayan opposition bloc for their part supports ABS-CBN, according to ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro.

President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday night issued a new threat to block the network’s franchise renewal.

Cayetano said he respects the opinion of his former running mate during the 2016 elections.

“Having said that, nirerespeto rin ng ating Pangulo ‘yung proseso so hintayin na lang natin ‘yung proseso na ‘yun but even the President admits that there has to be a fair process,” the congressman said.

(Having said that, our President also respects the process so let’s just wait on that process but even the President admits that there has to be a fair process.)

Both Cayetano and Duterte had accused the broadcast giant of being unfair to them during the 2016 national election campaign. But ABS-CBN chair Eugenio “Gabby” L. Lopez III, at the time, brushed aside such allegations.

Every now and then, the President has been repeatedly uttering threats against media outfits critical of his administration like ABS-CBN, broadsheet Philippine Daily Inquirer, and online news site Rappler.

Edited by KGA

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1197915/cayetano-we-have-enough-time-to-tackle-abs-cbn-franchise-next-year

Oras de peligro! ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal dead in 2019, Alvarez says

By JOHN CARLO M. CAHINHINAN

The House of Representatives will no longer tackle this year the franchise application of broadcast giant ABS-CBN amidst latest threat from President Rodrigo Duterte to block its renewal.

Legislative Franchise panel chair and Palawan Rep. Franz “Chicoy” Alvarez told CNN Philippines that his committee doesn’t have any remaining matter to hear this 2019, with Congress scheduled to take its Christmas recess starting on December 20.

In his speech on Tuesday, Duterte said network executives of the Kapamilya Network that he will make sure that their franchise will no longer be renewed once it expires on March 2020.

“Ang inyong franchise mag-end next year. If you are expecting na ma-renew ‘yan, I’m sorry. You’re out. I will see to it that you’re out,” said Duterte.

House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano earlier said ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal will be most likely discuss by Alvarez’s panel this December, as “there are real issues” that need to be tackled by Congress over the matter.

Duterte’s partymate in the PDP Laban recently have joined calls for the renewal of the legislative franchise of the Kapamilya network.

PDP Laban executive vice-president and Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales together Deputy Speakers Johnny Pimentel and Salvador “Doy” Leachon filed House Bill No. 5608—a proposed legislation that seeks to grant the “Kapamilya Network,” a fresh 25-year congressional franchise.

The move comes with less than three months remaining in the current congressional franchise of ABS-CBN under Republic Act No. 7966 that will expire in on March 30, 2020.

In his October 30 interview with ABS-CBN’s Umagang Kay Ganda, Cayetano admitted that the congressional franchise renewal of network giant ABS-CBN remains uncertain.

“So hindi naman ako makasagot sa inyo ng definite ngayon na definitely hindi, o definitely maibibigay,” said Cayetano.

ABS-CBN needs to secure the passage of their congressional franchise on or before March 30, 2020—the expiration date set by its current franchise under Republic Act No. 7966—or the network will have to continue to or cease operating as a broadcast network if Congress approves or fails to act on the franchise bill.

Aside from HB 5608, at least five similar legislations were filed at the Lower House to in a bid give ABS-CBN a fresh 25-year franchise.

https://politics.com.ph/oras-de-peligro-abs-cbns-franchise-renewal-dead-in-2019-alvarez-says/

Boy Abunda reacts to ABS-CBN franchise renewal issue

Inaasam ni Boy Abunda ang “the best” sa usapin ng franchise renewal ng ABS-CBN.

“I am not familiar with the problem. Hindi ko alam ang detalye ng problema.

"Pero ano man yun, sana ay maayos,” sabi ni Boy nang pumirma ito ng kontratra bilang spokesperson at ambassador ng AMA Online Education sa Kamameshi Restaurant, Greenhills, noong nakaraang linggo.

Sakaling hindi matuloy ang franchise renewal, may mga plano na ba siyang naiisip?

“Ang dami kong offer na magturo,” saad niya.

“Hindi ko alam how I’m going to behave. I’m under contract with ABS-CBN and I will remain loyal to ABS.

“My contract is still at the end of 2020.

“Halimbawa at mangyari kung ano man ang mangyayari, I will address that as it happens.

"But, I will honor my contract and my relationship and my friendship with people in ABS-CBN.”

Gusto niyang magturo at makapagtayo ng isang academe of the art.

“Parang gusto ko. Well, hindi parang... gusto ko talaga. Gusto kong magturo.

"I’d like to be able to... malay natin, with this AMA OED involvement, I’d like to put up my own academy.

“Pero simple lang, alam mo yung academy of the arts. May public speaking, may acting.

“I’m talking to one of the foremost acting coaches in this country, baka puwedeng ilang mga artes ang tawag namin sa National Commission for Culture of the Arts.”

Dugtong pa niya, “I’d like to put up my own school.”

Sa ngayon ay nauupo na siya sa ilang defense.

Hindi raw niya puwedeng sabihin na mas lamang na ang kagustuhan niyang magturo kumpara sa mag-host ng talk shows sa telebisyon.

Sa ngayon ay apat ang talk shows niya.

“Hindi ako nag-iisip ng talk show dahil sa kasalukuyan, I’m doing four.

"I’m doing Your Moment, Insider Cinema on cable. I have Bottomline and Tonight with Boy Abunda.

"And that’s the only reason why ang hirap sagutin, ‘Are you thinking of another show?’

“Parang ang hirap. I’m doing a lot and that will always be a priority.”

DOES BOY MISS THE BUZZ?

Nang sumabog ang kontrobersiya sa Barretto sisters na sina Gretchen, Marjorie, at Claudine, ang daming naka-miss sa showbiz talk show nila noong The Buzz.

Hindi ba niya nami-miss?

“Na-miss ko,” pag-amin ni Boy.

“At nakaka-flatter naman na hinahanap ng taong-bayan ang The Buzz.

"Pero you also have to be realistic. After the issue, what?

“There are economic considerations. Is this economically viable?

"Siyempre, nakaka-miss. Buhay ko yun ng 15, 16 years.

"Nakaka-miss, nakaka-miss siya."

House won’t tackle ABS-CBN franchise renewal bill this year – solon

The House of Representatives will not act on bills seeking to renew the franchise of major television network ABS-CBN until the year ends, a lawmaker said Wednesday.

House Committee on Legislative Franchises Chairman Franz Alvarez told CNN Philippines on Wednesday that his panel has no scheduled hearings until Congress adjourns for the Christmas break on December 20.

This is contrary to the statement of House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano in October that a House panel will tackle the renewal by yearend.

All franchise bills must first be approved by the House before they go to the Senate. ABS-CBN's franchise will expire on March 30, 2020 unless Congress and the President approve a new one. Five bills have been filed to extend the franchise for another 25 years.

President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday said he will personally make sure the TV network will be out of business when its license to operate expires.

"Ang inyong franchise mag-end next year [Your franchise will end next year]. If you are expecting na ma-renew 'yan [a renewal], I'm sorry. You're out. I will see to it that you're out," said Duterte in a speech.

The President has repeatedly slammed the network since 2018 for supposedly failing to air his presidential campaign advertisements in 2016.

ABS-CBN would be forced to shut down its broadcast operations if it fails to secure a fresh 25-year franchise from Congress, which is currently dominated by Duterte’s allies.

The TV network, one of the largest in the country, had 6,730 regular employees, 900 non-regular employees and 3,325 talents at the end of 2018, according to its report to the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Philippine Stock Exchange.

CNN Philippines correspondent Xianne Arcangel contributed to the report.

https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2019/12/4/ABS-CBN-franchise-renewal-House-bill.html

President Rodrigo Duterte to ABS-CBN: "I'm sorry, you're out!"

Hindi pa rin nagpapatinag si Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte sa kanyang bantang hindi niya pipirmahan ang anumang panukalang batas para sa franchise renewal ng broadcast giant na ABS-CBN.

Nakatakdang magtapos ang 25-year franchise to broadcast ng Kapamilya Network sa March 2020 o tatlong buwan na lamang mula ngayon.

Sa kanyang talumpati sa harap ng mga bagong talagang opisyal ng gobyerno sa Malacañang kahapon, December 3, muling binuhay ng Pangulo ang kanyang naunang banta laban sa ABS-CBN na hindi niya hahayaang makapag-renew ito ng prangkisa.

Diin pa niya, huwag nang umasa ang istasyong ma-renew ang kanilang prangkisa.

Sabi ni Duterte, “Ikaw, ABS-CBN, you’re a mouthpiece of…

“Ang inyong franchise mag-end next year.

“If you are expecting na ma-renew 'yan, I'm sorry. You're out.

“I will see to it that you're out.”

Muli ring inungkat ng Pangulo ang panggagantso diumano ng network sa kanya at sa ilan pang kandidato noong 2016 Presidential Elections nang hindi inere ang kanilang political advertisements kahit bayad na ang mga ito.

“Ilan kaming mga kandidato na kinuha ninyo ang pera namin, but never aired our propaganda.

“Ako, Chiz Escudero... lahat kami.

“Pero yung propaganda ni Trillanes [former Senator Antonio Trillanes] portraying children and which is really a prohibited act under the rules of the Election Code, in spite of the fact na may TRO [Temporary Restraining Order] na huwag ninyong ipalabas, pinalabas ninyo.”

NETWORK EXECUTIVES REACHING OUT TO HIM?

Kasunod nito, nagpahiwatig ang Presidente na may ilang ehekutibo ng istasyon ang diumano’y “nagmamakaawa” sa kanya upang pirmahan ang franchise renewal ng ABS-CBN.

Saad pa ni Duterte, “Ngayon, you come to me begging.

“E, yung mga ang... ang kawawa, kayong second generation na walang ka among-among [hindi alam paano makitungo] diyan sa akin, parang hindi na malaman kung ano ang body language nila.”

May halos sampung panukalang batas sa Lower House ukol sa franchise renewal ng ABS-CBN ang nakahain, pero hindi pa ito natatalakay ng Committee on Legislative Franchises dahil inuuna ng Kongreso ang 2020 National Budget.

Sa Senado naman ay may isang panukalang ganun din ang layunin, ngunit hindi pa rin ito natatalakay.

Ayon naman kay House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, magkakaroon ng public hearing tungkol dito upang marinig ang magkabilang panig dahil pati siya ay may personal ding himutok laban sa ABS-CBN.

Simula nang pumutok ang isyung ito, hindi nagbibigay ng anumang pahayag ang ABS-CBN ukol sa isyu.

https://www.pep.ph/news/local/147967/president-rodrigo-duterte-abs-cbn-franchise-renewal-a718-20191204

PRRD nixes ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal

President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday announced that he is not bent on granting the renewal of the 25-year congressional franchise to local broadcast network ABS-CBN.

Duterte made the pronouncement before the newly-appointed government officials, as he was still irked by ABS-CBN's supposed bias by slanting reports about him.

"ABS-CBN, you're a mouthpiece of… Ang inyong franchise, mag-end next year (Your franchise will end next year)," Duterte said in a speech delivered at the Palace's Heroes Hall.

"If you are expecting na ma-renew iyan (that it will be renewed), I'm sorry, you're out. I will see to it na (that) you're out," he added.

ABS-CBN's franchise is set to expire on March 30, 2020.

Several bills have been filed at the House of Representatives, seeking the renewal of the local media giant's congressional franchise.

However, the House franchise committee has not tabled the proposed measures for discussion.

Radio and television broadcast firms in the country are required to seek a franchise from Congress, pursuant to Republic Act 3846.

On November 4, House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano admitted that he had "personal" objections to ABS-CBN's franchise renewal because of the company's leaders who "interfered unjustly".

In his latest speech, Duterte lambasted ABS-CBN anew for alleged failure to air his paid advertisements on television during the 2016 presidential campaign.

The President said he would not change his mind, despite the news outfit's persistence to come to him "begging".

"Ilan kaming mga kandidato na kinuha ninyo ang pera namin (You took my money, as well as the other candidates), but never aired our propaganda," he said.

On August 3 last year, Duterte revealed that ABS-CBN kept on sending emissary to his office to negotiate the renewal of its franchise.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1087836

I’ll see to it that you’re out, President tells ABS-CBN

President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday vowed that “he will see to it” that the franchise of broadcast giant ABS-CBN would be or not be renewed.

The President made the statement as he lashed out against the alleged onerous contract between the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System and the two water concessionaires—Manila Water Co. Inc. and Maynilad Water Services Inc.

“Your franchise will end next year. If you are expecting that it will be renewed, I’m sorry. You’re out. I will see to it that you’re out,” he said, addressing ABS-CBN.

There was no immediate response to the Inquirer’s request from the network to comment on the President’s latest statement.

Republic Act No. 3846 requires radio and television broadcasters in the Philippines to obtain a franchise from Congress.

It was the first time that the President had stated that he would personally ensure that the network’s franchise would not be renewed. ABS-CBN’s 25-year franchise expires on March 30, 2020.

Election campaign ad

Since he took office, Duterte has repeatedly threatened ABS-CBN’s franchise because the network allegedly ran a negative ad against him when he campaigned for President in 2016 and for refusing to air his own propaganda.

“There were several of us candidates from whom you took money but never aired our propaganda. Me, Chiz Escudero, all of us,” he said in Malacañang at the oathtaking of the executive committee of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines.

On the other hand, he said the network aired the ad of one of his sharpest critics, former Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, that portrayed children allegedly in violation of the election law.

Trillanes, who was then running for Vice President, showed children reacting negatively to video clips of Duterte cursing Pope Francis and his joke about the gang rape and murder of an Australian missionary during a prison riot in Davao City in 1989.

In April 2017, the President accused the network of being unfair in reporting about him, including his brutal war on drugs.

Eugenio “Gabby” L. Lopez III, ABS-CBN chair, at the time brushed aside Duterte’s attacks, saying “it’s part and parcel of our work being a media institution.”

Lopez also said he “[did] not anticipate” significant problems in the approval of ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal.

The President may not have a hard time blocking the renewal as both the Senate and the House of Representatives are dominated by his allies.

Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano early last month said he also had personal objections to the franchise renewal but promised that the House would be “fair” to the network.

He said the President’s dispute with ABS-CBN was between Duterte and the network. But he noted that Duterte had “legitimate criticisms” against the broadcast giant.

Press freedom

“On one hand I feel that we have to protect the freedom of the press and freedom of expression; on the other hand, I feel that there’s certain instances in history, and in the 2016 election, that some sectors or leaders of ABS-CBN interfered unjustly,” he said.

But Cayetano assured the public that “we will find a conclusion that is acceptable to everyone but will be good for the country.”

“First and foremost, telling it straight, we will be fair. It’s our duty to be fair,” he said. —Reports from Julie M. Aurelio and Inquirer Research

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1197788/ill-see-to-it-that-youre-out-president-tells-abs-cbn

Congress targets ratification of 2020 budget next week

THE HOUSE of Representatives and the Senate expect ratification of the proposed P4.1-trillion national budget for 2020 by next week to enable enactment before the year ends, key legislators said separately on Tuesday, while the Budget department has begun the process of crafting the 2021 spending plan.

House Appropriations Committee Chairman Rep. Isidro T. Ungab of Davao’s 3rd District said the body’s secretariat completed on Monday its review of the Senate version of the 2020 national budget, in time for his meeting yesterday with his counterpart, Senator Juan Edgardo M. Angara.

“The House Appropriations secretariat just finished studying yesterday the figures in Senate’s GAB as approved on final reading. I presented these findings to the House bicameral conference committee panel and will proceed to discuss the details with my Senate counterpart, Sen. Angara,” Mr. Ungab said in a mobile phone message on Tuesday, referring to the general appropriations bill (GAB).

“We will be working this week despite the inclement weather.”

The House approved House Bill No. 4228, or the General Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2020, on third and final reading on Sept. 20, while the Senate approved its version on Nov. 27.

The 18th Congress aims to submit the budget to President Rodrigo R. Duterte for signing ahead of its Dec. 21, 2019- Jan. 19, 2020 break in order to ensure yearend enactment.

Pressed for a target, Mr. Ungab said, “Hopefully, ratified na by next week to give time for printing.”

‘FEW POINTS OF DISAGREEMENT’

Senate President Vicente C. Sotto III confirmed the timetable, saying: “We’re on track.”

“I understand in the bicam(eral conference committee), there will be very few points of disagreement. Tingin ko baka… (I think) on the week of the (Dec.) ninth, baka mai-ratify namin (we may be able to ratify the 2020 budget),” Mr. Sotto told reporters in a briefing in Mandaluyong City on Tuesday.

Mr. Sotto said that, so far, Mr. Angara has not flagged any major contention that could delay passage of the 2020 national budget.

“Ang sabi lang niya sa akin (Mr. Angara told me) ‘everything’s fine, all is well, everything’s fine’,” Mr. Sotto said, adding that he does not expect the House to again make changes after ratification — a controversy that contributed to delayed enactment of the 2019 national budget.

“I don’t expect Speaker (Alan Peter S. ) Cayetano and the Chairman of Appropriation to do something like that.”

Mr. Duterte signed the 2019 budget on April 15, but vetoed some P95.3-billion appropriations deemed unconstitutional, reducing its total to P3.662 trillion.

A review of the Senate Committee report, shared by Appropriations Vice-Chairman Jose Ma. Clemente S. Salceda of Albay-2nd District, showed differences in Senate and House appropriations for the Department of Transportation (DoTr), Department of Health (DoH) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

House Bill No. 4228 allocated P146.04 billion to the DoTr, P529.75 billion to the DPWH and P88.92 billion to the DoH; while the Senate provided P120.32 billion, P536.58 billion and P100.49 billion, respectively.

WORK ON 2021 BUDGET BEGINS

And with work on the proposed 2020 national budget in the homestretch, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has instructed government offices to start crafting their spending plans for 2021.

The DBM released the national budget call for 2021 through the national budget memorandum no. 133, dated Nov. 29, that was signed by Acting Budget Secretary Wendel E. Avisado.

In a text message, Mr. Avisado said the Development & Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) will convene on Dec. 11 to discuss the proposed national budget for 2021 and review macroeconomic and fiscal targets.

Under the budget call, the DBM said it will maintain a cash budgeting system (CBS) that forces state offices to spend their allocations on time by limiting project obligation of such funds to within the fiscal year, compared to two years in the previous practice.

“In the third year of the transition towards CBS, there will be greater focus on ensuring the implementation-readiness of proposals through better procurement planning, programming of projects and activities, and coordination among agencies,” it explained.

The DBM also cited the need for closer coordination between officials of national and local government offices to make sure that national plans and projects are relevant to the grassroots and that local plans and projects adhere to national priorities.

“The Department Secretary/Head of Agency shall be held accountable in ensuring that its budget proposals have undergone the proper RDC review process with a duly issued endorsement,” DBM said in the memorandum, referring to regional development councils that have both national and local government representatives.

https://www.bworldonline.com/congress-targets-ratification-of-2020-budget-next-week/

Butuan health center upgraded

Oliver John Tiu (left), SM Group vice president for operations in Mindanao, and SM Foundation’s Connie Angeles turn over a symbolic ‘160’ sign to Butuan Mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada (right) for the wellness center the mall giant just renovated for the city.

With the recent turnover of its 160th Wellness Center to Butuan Medical Center, SM Foundation, together with SM City Butuan, ensured that residents of Butuan and its neighboring provinces will now have access to comfortable medical facilities without compromising the quality of the services.

Pediatrician Dr. Caridad Berdeos Plete, who has been with BMC for 13 years, said she is looking forward to more comfortable consultations with her patients in the air-conditioned rooms of the renovated wards with comfortable beds and ample moving spaces for the watchers.

Before the renovation, BMC patients’ illnesses sometimes get worsened due to the cramp and poor ventilation of the old ward.

OIC chief nurse, Paul Ritchie Pelos, who has been with the hospital since 2014 kid that the hotel-like ambiance of the renovated wards might encourage patients and watchers to overstay but he pressed that they will make sure to discharge the patients as soon as they are healed so others can use the upgraded medical facilities.

Moreover, noting that the children and elderly are the most vulnerable to virulent diseases, SM Foundation ensured that their new wards are shielded from the main ward of BMC via thick doors.

Also part of the renovation are the comfort stations for children and the elderly where they can stay comfortably while waiting for their doctors.

SMFI Executive Director for Health and Wellness Programs Connie Angeles explained: “Children and senior citizens are the most susceptible to viruses and bacteria that cause more deadly ailments. They are also the ones that need better protection as their immune systems are not as strong as people in between these stages.”

Butuan Mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada said: “This effort has raised the bar and upgraded the quality requirements for public buildings like health centers and hospitals.”

Lagnada said he’s delighted that SM Foundation went ahead with the BMC upgrade even before the SM City Mall would open by February 14, 2020.

“With this, the Butuanons are grateful. This clearly demonstrates your desire to spread social good to people,” he added.

With the upgrade, the hospital can now qualify for certification as Level 3 tertiary health facility, said Dr. Plete.

http://www.manilastandard.net/lgu/mindanao/311623/butuan-health-center-upgraded.html

Congress leaders: 2020 budget bill OK next week

By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz & Butch Fernandez

CONGRESS leaders have moved to avert the prospect of the government operating under a reenacted 2019 budget by January should lawmakers miss a deadline to ratify and submit to Malacañang for signing into law the final reconciled version of the P4.1-trillion 2020 budget bill before they adjourn for the Christmas recess on December 20.

“I do not expect hitches,” Senate President Vicente Sotto III told the BusinessMirror, adding he expects the annual money measure to be “ratified by next week.”

This, as Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon disclosed Tuesday that the Senate-House conference committee is on track to meet their deadline, forming a “small committee” to identify conflicting provisions in the two chambers’ versions that are likely to delay the process.

“The bicam authorized Sen. Angara and Cong. Ungab to constitute a small committee to go over the conflicting versions,” said Drilon. “I have worked with Senator Angara and Congressman Ungab in the past congresses. They are competent and reasonable legislators, and I am confident they can finish their task before we adjourn on December 20,” he added.

Angara, however, declined when asked to predict if the bicameral panel can meet the yearend deadline.

In a text message to BusinessMirror, Angara admitted: “It’s hard to say ahead of time. We are really trying to pass it before the congressional break, knowing what happened with the 2019 budget. Whatever differences may arise both panels realize the need for a timely passage of the budget.”

Ungab, the House Committee on Appropriations chairman, said members of the House and Senate Bicameral Conference Committee will be working this week despite the inclement weather to settle discrepancies in the two chambers’ different versions of the budget bill, including their institutional amendments or realignments.

“The House Appropriations Secretariat just finished studying [Monday] the figures in the Senate’s GAB [general appropriations bill] as approved on final reading. I presented these findings to the House Bicameral Conference Committee Panel and will proceed to discuss the details with my senate counterpart, Senator Angara. Both chairmen will still have to go through the details and we still have to agree on the contentious figures,” Ungab explained.

“Nevertheless, both panels agree on the need to pass and approve the national budget before the Christmas break [on December 18],” he said.

Meanwhile, a source from the House said the bicameral conference committee is eyeing to finish and approve the budget this week for the two chambers’ ratification on Monday next week.

Congress is eyeing to submit the 2020 national budget to President Duterte on December 20.

Earlier, House Committee on Ways and Means Chairman Joey Sarte Salceda said the senators have realigned P135 billion under the 2020 budget.

He said the P135 billion has been realigned to the unprogrammed projects of the government.

The Department of Budget and Managment said the national budget provides for standby appropriation under unprogrammed funds that will supposedly give the government some allowance to undertake proactive measures in urgent situations. However, this was not detailed in the Palace’s National Expenditure Program (NEP).

Realignments for 4 sectors
In the House of Representatives, P9.5 billion in funds were realigned to various government agencies, covering the sectors of infrastructure, agriculture, education and health care.

At least P3.5 billion was allocated through the Department of Agriculture (DA) to enable it to buy more palay from farmers amid the plummeting farm-gate prices in certain parts of the country and to set up a quick-response fund.

The institutional amendments also included P800 million to the Department of Education (DepEd) for the operation of schools from Kinder to Grade 12, and establishment of model day-care centers nationwide.

The Philippine General Hospital (PGH) also got P500 million as part of the realignments, while the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) received P250 million for the maintenance and other operating expenses of community-based rehabilitation centers.

The other beneficiaries of the amendments were: the Department of Health (DOH) to augment funds for the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) in the amount of P100 million and another P100 million for a quick-response fund; the Philippine National Police  (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) which received P1 billion each to set up their respective camp development funds; and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), P500 million for its  National Resource Conservation and Development-Protected Areas and Development Management Program (NRCD-PADMP).

The Department of Transportation (DOTr), P274.95 million for the operating expenses of the Davao International Airport (DAI); National Electrification Administration (NEA), P500 million for its  sitio electrification program; Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), P500 million for the special allowances of traffic enforcers and field personnel, and salary increases of 4,000 job order personnel; and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), P500 million, for the preparation and training of athletes for 2020 Olympic Games and 10th Asean Para Games.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/12/04/congress-leaders-2020-budget-bill-ok-next-week/