MANILA: Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday (Dec 30) told owners of a media conglomerate that has drawn his ire to sell the company ahead of the network's franchise expiry.
The mercurial leader has a rocky relationship with the media, especially with those critical of his bloody anti-narcotics campaign, and he has threatened numerous times to block the franchise extension of ABS-CBN Corporation
"This ABS-CBN, your contract will expire, and you try to renew. I don't know what will happen to you," Duterte said in a speech before earthquake victims in the province of Cotabato.
The broadcast franchise of ABS-CBN, the country's largest media conglomerate with dozens of local and national radio and television stations covering news, entertainment and public affairs, will expire in March 2020.
"If I were you, just sell it," Duterte said of the network, which he had accused of not airing his paid advertisement during the presidential race in 2016.
A Bill to extend its licence is pending in congress, which is dominated by Duterte's allies.
ABS-CBN did not immediately respond to request for comment on a public holiday.
Duterte, in numerous public speeches, has lashed out at the media, while his office has at times accused media companies of bias or distorting his statements.
The Philippine leader enjoys a high approval rating and is wildly popular on social media. His supporters, including bloggers, fiercely defend him and his policies, and have targeted journalists.
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/rodrigo-duterte-philippines-abs-cbn-corp-media-sell-out-12220574
Monday, December 30, 2019
Duterte to ABS-CBN: Better to sell the network
'Magrenew kayo, ewan ko lang kung may mangyari diyan,' President Rodrigo Duterte tells the media giant
Months before the expiration of the media giant's franchise, President Rodrigo Duterte told ABS-CBN that it would be better to "just sell" the network as he reiterated that it was unlikely that Congress would renew its franchise.
Duterte made his latest tirade against ABS-CBN as he spoke to earthquake victims of M'lang town in Cotabato on Monday, December 30.
"Itong ABS, mag-expire ang contract ninyo. Magrenew kayo, ewan ko lang kung may mangyari diyan. Kung ako sa inyo, ipagbili 'nyo na ‘yan (ABS-CBN, your contract will expire. You want to renew, but I don't know if that will happen. If I were you, I'd sell it)," Duterte said.
ABS-CBN's legislative franchise was approved through Republic Act No. 7966 on March 30, 1995. It is set to expire on March 30, 2020.
In his latest rant, Duterte said that it was about time that the Filipino people "get back" at ABS-CBN, even though it was the Chief Executive who had an axe to grind against it. He had been slamming the network since the start of his presidency as it supposedly did not air his political ads during the 2016 campaign.
"I will make sure that you will remember this episode of our times forever," Duterte said on Monday, referring to ABS-CBN.
Several bills have been filed at the House of Representatives to renew the ABS-CBN franchise, but the lower chamber did not tackle them before the Christmas break.
If the bill is not passed and signed into law, ABS-CBN will have to close down its radio and television operations. House committee on legislative franchises chairman Franz Alvarez earlier said that the chamber would tackle the bills in early 2020.
Opposition lawmakers such as Senator Leila de Lima have urged Congress to renew the franchise, saying that doing otherwise would make them complicit in the death of democracy in the country.
Renewed threats
Duterte's rant against ABS-CBN was part of his usual diatribe against oligarchs he accused of "screwing over" the government.
On Monday, he again threatened to "jail" the Ayalas and Manny Pangilinan, for alleged corruption in their water distribution operations in Metro Manila, which both have denied. (READ: Look back: Duterte's tussles with big business)
Duterte started hitting the water concessionaires after the Ayala-led Manila Water won in an arbitration case against the Philippine government in a Singapore court, which ordered the latter to pay Manila Water P7.4 billion. After Duterte threatened to scrap the 1997 water deal with Manila Water and Pangilinan's Maynilad, both said they would no longer demand payment from government.
Duterte also lambasted the Inquirer Group on Monday, accusing it of being a "mouthpiece" of the oligarchs. He even "invited" the earthquake victims in the audience to join him in "attacking" the Inquirer office in Manila. (READ: Duterte's target: The Philippine Daily Inquirer)
"Hintayin ko kayo sa Maynila. Sabay-sabay tayo, sugurin natin 'yan sila. Kaya 'nyo? (I'll wait for you in Manila. Let's do it together, lets attack them. Can you do that)?" Duterte said, as his joke drew cheers and laughter from the audience.
In 2017, business tycoon and Duterte's friend Ramon Ang bought the majority shares of the Inquirer Group from the Prietos.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/248223-duterte-abs-cbn-sell-network-than-renew-franchise
Months before the expiration of the media giant's franchise, President Rodrigo Duterte told ABS-CBN that it would be better to "just sell" the network as he reiterated that it was unlikely that Congress would renew its franchise.
Duterte made his latest tirade against ABS-CBN as he spoke to earthquake victims of M'lang town in Cotabato on Monday, December 30.
"Itong ABS, mag-expire ang contract ninyo. Magrenew kayo, ewan ko lang kung may mangyari diyan. Kung ako sa inyo, ipagbili 'nyo na ‘yan (ABS-CBN, your contract will expire. You want to renew, but I don't know if that will happen. If I were you, I'd sell it)," Duterte said.
ABS-CBN's legislative franchise was approved through Republic Act No. 7966 on March 30, 1995. It is set to expire on March 30, 2020.
In his latest rant, Duterte said that it was about time that the Filipino people "get back" at ABS-CBN, even though it was the Chief Executive who had an axe to grind against it. He had been slamming the network since the start of his presidency as it supposedly did not air his political ads during the 2016 campaign.
"I will make sure that you will remember this episode of our times forever," Duterte said on Monday, referring to ABS-CBN.
Several bills have been filed at the House of Representatives to renew the ABS-CBN franchise, but the lower chamber did not tackle them before the Christmas break.
If the bill is not passed and signed into law, ABS-CBN will have to close down its radio and television operations. House committee on legislative franchises chairman Franz Alvarez earlier said that the chamber would tackle the bills in early 2020.
Opposition lawmakers such as Senator Leila de Lima have urged Congress to renew the franchise, saying that doing otherwise would make them complicit in the death of democracy in the country.
Renewed threats
Duterte's rant against ABS-CBN was part of his usual diatribe against oligarchs he accused of "screwing over" the government.
On Monday, he again threatened to "jail" the Ayalas and Manny Pangilinan, for alleged corruption in their water distribution operations in Metro Manila, which both have denied. (READ: Look back: Duterte's tussles with big business)
Duterte started hitting the water concessionaires after the Ayala-led Manila Water won in an arbitration case against the Philippine government in a Singapore court, which ordered the latter to pay Manila Water P7.4 billion. After Duterte threatened to scrap the 1997 water deal with Manila Water and Pangilinan's Maynilad, both said they would no longer demand payment from government.
Duterte also lambasted the Inquirer Group on Monday, accusing it of being a "mouthpiece" of the oligarchs. He even "invited" the earthquake victims in the audience to join him in "attacking" the Inquirer office in Manila. (READ: Duterte's target: The Philippine Daily Inquirer)
"Hintayin ko kayo sa Maynila. Sabay-sabay tayo, sugurin natin 'yan sila. Kaya 'nyo? (I'll wait for you in Manila. Let's do it together, lets attack them. Can you do that)?" Duterte said, as his joke drew cheers and laughter from the audience.
In 2017, business tycoon and Duterte's friend Ramon Ang bought the majority shares of the Inquirer Group from the Prietos.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/248223-duterte-abs-cbn-sell-network-than-renew-franchise
Philippines' Duterte tells troubled media conglomerate owners to sell out
MANILA, Dec 30 (Reuters) - Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday told owners of a media conglomerate that has drawn his ire to sell the company ahead of the network's franchise expiry.
The mercurial leader has a rocky relationship with the media, especially with those critical of his bloody anti-narcotics campaign, and he has threatened numerous times to block the franchise extension of ABS-CBN Corp.
"This ABS, your contract will expire, and you try to renew. I don't know what will happen to you," Duterte said in a speech before earthquake victims in the southern province of North Cotabato.
The broadcast franchise of ABS-CBN, the country's largest media conglomerate with dozens of local and national radio and television stations covering news, entertainment and public affairs, will expire in March 2020.
"If I were you, just sell it," Duterte said of the network, which he had accused of not airing his paid advertisement during the presidential race in 2016.
A bill to extend its licence is pending in congress, which is dominated by Duterte's allies.
ABS-CBN did not immediately respond to request for comment on a public holiday.
Duterte, in numerous public speeches, has lashed out at the media, while his office has at times accused media companies of bias or distorting his statements.
The Philippine leader enjoys a high approval rating and is wildly popular on social media. His supporters, including bloggers, fiercely defend him and his policies, and have targeted journalists.
https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/philippines-duterte-tells-troubled-media-conglomerate-owners-to-sell-out-2019-12-30
The mercurial leader has a rocky relationship with the media, especially with those critical of his bloody anti-narcotics campaign, and he has threatened numerous times to block the franchise extension of ABS-CBN Corp.
"This ABS, your contract will expire, and you try to renew. I don't know what will happen to you," Duterte said in a speech before earthquake victims in the southern province of North Cotabato.
The broadcast franchise of ABS-CBN, the country's largest media conglomerate with dozens of local and national radio and television stations covering news, entertainment and public affairs, will expire in March 2020.
"If I were you, just sell it," Duterte said of the network, which he had accused of not airing his paid advertisement during the presidential race in 2016.
A bill to extend its licence is pending in congress, which is dominated by Duterte's allies.
ABS-CBN did not immediately respond to request for comment on a public holiday.
Duterte, in numerous public speeches, has lashed out at the media, while his office has at times accused media companies of bias or distorting his statements.
The Philippine leader enjoys a high approval rating and is wildly popular on social media. His supporters, including bloggers, fiercely defend him and his policies, and have targeted journalists.
https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/philippines-duterte-tells-troubled-media-conglomerate-owners-to-sell-out-2019-12-30
Duterte tells ABS-CBN owners to just sell the TV network
Three months before the expiration of ABS-CBN's franchise, President Rodrigo Duterte Monday said the television network should just be sold as he vowed to give its owners an episode they won't forget.
Duterte, who has accused ABS-CBN of biased reporting and of "swindling" him for not airing his campaign commercial, said there is no assurance that the network's franchise would be renewed. The Lopez-owned network's franchise is set to expire on March 30, 2020.
"Your contract is about to expire. You will try to renew it but I don't know what will happen to that," the president said during his visit to earthquake victims in M'lang, Cotabato.
"Kung ako sa inyo ipagbili niyo na 'yan. Kasi ang mga Pilipino ngayon lang makaganti sa inyong kalokohan (If I were you, I would sell it. It's only now that Filipinos would be able to get back at your wrongdoings). And I will make sure that you will remember this episode of our times forever," he added.
Duterte claimed previous presidents did not act against the interests of some businesses because they were afraid of ABS-CBN.
Duterte had claimed that ABS-CBN did not return the money he paid for campaign commercials even if the advertisements did not air. He had also accused the network of magnifying "garbage" stories peddled by his critics.
Earlier this month, Duterte vowed to block the renewal of ABS-CBN's franchise.
"I will see to it that you're out," he said in a speech delivered in Malacañang last December 3.
Duterte blasts Inquirer
Duterte also accused broadsheet Philippine Daily Inquirer of being a "mouthpiece" of oligarchs.
"You son of a b****, Inquirer, everyone. You are silent. Because you are the mouthpiece of oligarchs in the Philippines. You son of a b**** Inquirer, you are on the take," the president said.
"You are no better than a prostitute. You sell your talent to the rich. Against the poor. Yan. That's why I have always been angry with the rich," he added.
Duterte claimed owners of the broadsheet have used their influence to evade taxes.
"They did not pay taxes, just like donut, just like Inquirer," the president said, apparently referring to the Prietos, the family that owns the broadsheet and the exclusive Philippine franchisee of Dunkin' Donuts.
Duterte had claimed that the Prietos only paid P8 million to settle a P1 billion tax deficiency of Dunkin Donuts during the time of former President Benigno Aquino III.
https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2019/12/30/1980834/duterte-tells-abs-cbn-owners-just-sell-tv-network
Duterte, who has accused ABS-CBN of biased reporting and of "swindling" him for not airing his campaign commercial, said there is no assurance that the network's franchise would be renewed. The Lopez-owned network's franchise is set to expire on March 30, 2020.
"Your contract is about to expire. You will try to renew it but I don't know what will happen to that," the president said during his visit to earthquake victims in M'lang, Cotabato.
"Kung ako sa inyo ipagbili niyo na 'yan. Kasi ang mga Pilipino ngayon lang makaganti sa inyong kalokohan (If I were you, I would sell it. It's only now that Filipinos would be able to get back at your wrongdoings). And I will make sure that you will remember this episode of our times forever," he added.
Duterte claimed previous presidents did not act against the interests of some businesses because they were afraid of ABS-CBN.
Duterte had claimed that ABS-CBN did not return the money he paid for campaign commercials even if the advertisements did not air. He had also accused the network of magnifying "garbage" stories peddled by his critics.
Earlier this month, Duterte vowed to block the renewal of ABS-CBN's franchise.
"I will see to it that you're out," he said in a speech delivered in Malacañang last December 3.
Duterte blasts Inquirer
Duterte also accused broadsheet Philippine Daily Inquirer of being a "mouthpiece" of oligarchs.
"You son of a b****, Inquirer, everyone. You are silent. Because you are the mouthpiece of oligarchs in the Philippines. You son of a b**** Inquirer, you are on the take," the president said.
"You are no better than a prostitute. You sell your talent to the rich. Against the poor. Yan. That's why I have always been angry with the rich," he added.
Duterte claimed owners of the broadsheet have used their influence to evade taxes.
"They did not pay taxes, just like donut, just like Inquirer," the president said, apparently referring to the Prietos, the family that owns the broadsheet and the exclusive Philippine franchisee of Dunkin' Donuts.
Duterte had claimed that the Prietos only paid P8 million to settle a P1 billion tax deficiency of Dunkin Donuts during the time of former President Benigno Aquino III.
https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2019/12/30/1980834/duterte-tells-abs-cbn-owners-just-sell-tv-network
Duterte tells ABS-CBN execs to sell company
President Rodrigo Duterte again vented his anger at ABS-CBN Corporation in his latest speech, even suggesting a way out for the hard-pressed major television network.
"Itong ABS-CBN, mag-expire ang contract ninyo, mag-renew kayo, ewan ko lang kung mangyari. Ako pa sa'yo, pagbili na ninyo 'yan," Duterte said in a talk to earthquake victims in Cotabato Monday.
[Translation: ABS-CBN, your contract is set to expire. I don't know if it will be renewed. If I were you, I'd sell the company.]
In a series of tweets Monday, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) said Duterte's latest statement bore "all the signs of a shakedown and raises questions over his real intentions for seeking to block the renewal of the broadcast network’s franchise."
"Words that appear to be marching orders to his minions in Congress, led by Alan Peter Cayetano, who has admitted having “personal objections” to renewing the franchise in a clear conflict of interest," they said.
NUJP added, "We call on the community of independent Filipino journalists and on citizens who cherish democracy to band together and protect the free arena of ideas that the closure or forced sale of ABS-CBN would severely weaken."
The franchise of the embattled media company will expire in March 2020, unless Congress and Duterte approve its extension.
Congress was unable to tackle five pending bills to extend ABS-CBN's franchise for another 25 years in 2019.
Duterte has also consistently stood firm against the network and its executives.
The President's primary objection stemmed from the network's alleged failure to run his paid campaign advertisements during the 2016 election.
ABS-CBN is one of the major TV networks in the country, with around 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.
https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2019/12/30/duterte-abs-cbn-franchise-sale.html
"Itong ABS-CBN, mag-expire ang contract ninyo, mag-renew kayo, ewan ko lang kung mangyari. Ako pa sa'yo, pagbili na ninyo 'yan," Duterte said in a talk to earthquake victims in Cotabato Monday.
[Translation: ABS-CBN, your contract is set to expire. I don't know if it will be renewed. If I were you, I'd sell the company.]
In a series of tweets Monday, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) said Duterte's latest statement bore "all the signs of a shakedown and raises questions over his real intentions for seeking to block the renewal of the broadcast network’s franchise."
"Words that appear to be marching orders to his minions in Congress, led by Alan Peter Cayetano, who has admitted having “personal objections” to renewing the franchise in a clear conflict of interest," they said.
NUJP added, "We call on the community of independent Filipino journalists and on citizens who cherish democracy to band together and protect the free arena of ideas that the closure or forced sale of ABS-CBN would severely weaken."
The franchise of the embattled media company will expire in March 2020, unless Congress and Duterte approve its extension.
Congress was unable to tackle five pending bills to extend ABS-CBN's franchise for another 25 years in 2019.
Duterte has also consistently stood firm against the network and its executives.
The President's primary objection stemmed from the network's alleged failure to run his paid campaign advertisements during the 2016 election.
ABS-CBN is one of the major TV networks in the country, with around 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.
https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2019/12/30/duterte-abs-cbn-franchise-sale.html
BREAKING: Duterte tells ABS-CBN to just sell the network
After threatening television giant ABS-CBN with closure by not renewing its franchise, President Duterte on Monday gave an unsolicited advice to the network — put it on sale.
Duterte made the proposal with little over two months left until ABS-CBN’s broadcast rights expires. It is congress that is mandated by the constitution to enact franchise bills pending before it.
If the franchise is not granted, the country’s largest network would have to close down its TV and radio operations by March 20, 2020.
“Itong ABS, mag-expire ang contract ninyo. Mag-renew kayo, ewan ko lang kung may mangyari diyan. Kung ako sa inyo ipagbili niyo na ‘yan,” Duterte said in a speech before earthquake victims in M’lang, North Cotabato.
“Kasi ang mga Pilipino ngayon lang makaganti sa inyong kalokohan. And I will make sure that you will remember this episode of our times forever,” he added.
Duterte has several times in the past threatened to block the franchise renewal of the Kapamilya network after what he claimed to be unfair treatment of him during the presidential campaign period.
The President has also repeatedly accused ABS-CBN of estafa for supposedly not providing him the airtime he had paid for during the May 2016 presidential elections.
He has also slammed the network for airing what he deemed to be unfair or slanted reports about him.
The proposed sale of ABS-CBN came on the heels of reports that Duterte’s friend, Davao-based businessman Dennis Uy recently formed the Udenna Communications Media and Entertainment Holdings Corp, which expands his business to media and entertainment sector.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1207388/fwd-breaking-3-months-before-franchise-expires-duterte-tells-abs-cbn-to-just-sell-the-network
Duterte made the proposal with little over two months left until ABS-CBN’s broadcast rights expires. It is congress that is mandated by the constitution to enact franchise bills pending before it.
If the franchise is not granted, the country’s largest network would have to close down its TV and radio operations by March 20, 2020.
“Itong ABS, mag-expire ang contract ninyo. Mag-renew kayo, ewan ko lang kung may mangyari diyan. Kung ako sa inyo ipagbili niyo na ‘yan,” Duterte said in a speech before earthquake victims in M’lang, North Cotabato.
“Kasi ang mga Pilipino ngayon lang makaganti sa inyong kalokohan. And I will make sure that you will remember this episode of our times forever,” he added.
Duterte has several times in the past threatened to block the franchise renewal of the Kapamilya network after what he claimed to be unfair treatment of him during the presidential campaign period.
The President has also repeatedly accused ABS-CBN of estafa for supposedly not providing him the airtime he had paid for during the May 2016 presidential elections.
He has also slammed the network for airing what he deemed to be unfair or slanted reports about him.
The proposed sale of ABS-CBN came on the heels of reports that Duterte’s friend, Davao-based businessman Dennis Uy recently formed the Udenna Communications Media and Entertainment Holdings Corp, which expands his business to media and entertainment sector.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1207388/fwd-breaking-3-months-before-franchise-expires-duterte-tells-abs-cbn-to-just-sell-the-network
Three-month countdown: What are ABS-CBN’s chances of renewing its franchise?
PANGASINAN, Philippines — The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines is rallying for public support to defend press freedom after President Rodrigo Duterte delivered fresh blows against media giant ABS-CBN, whose congressional franchise is set to expire in three months.
“Itong ABS, mag-expire ang contract ninyo. Mag-renew kayo, ewan ko lang kung may mangyari diyan. Kung ako sa inyo, ipagbili niyo na ‘yan...And I will make sure that you will remember this episode of our times forever,” Duterte said in a Monday speech while visiting earthquake victims in North Cotabato.
(ABS-CBN’s contract is about to expire. Try to renew your franchise, let’s see what happens. If I were you, I might as well sell the network.)
Admin-led Congress
The NUJP described Duterte's statement as a veiled threat with “[w]ords that appear to be marching orders to his minions in Congress, led by Alan Peter Cayetano, who has admitted having ‘personal objections’ to renewing the franchise in a clear conflict of interest.”
ABS-CBN's franchise is set to expire on March 30, 2020, after which its broadcast services will cease operation.
At least five bills have been filed to extend the media network’s broadcasting operations for another 25 years.
The House of Representatives, meanwhile, has not acted on the pending legislation to renew the said franchise.
An administration-recognized super majority stands in the House with about 290 members. It is helmed by Speaker Cayetano who was the president’s running mate in the 2016 elections and Cabinet appointee prior to speakership.
Duterte also brokered the initial "term-sharing" agreement between Cayetano and Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Jay Velasco that saw the former rise to the speakership.
President’s signature needed
Broadcast companies, including radio and television networks, in the Philippines are required to seek a franchise from Congress under Republic Act 3846.
“No person, firm, company, association or corporation shall construct, install, establish, or operate a radio station within the Philippine Islands without having first obtained a franchise therefore from the Philippine Legislature,” RA 3846 reads.
ABS-CBN’s current franchise was granted a term of 25 years under Republic Act 7966, approved on March 30, 1995. It states:
“The ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation, hereunder referred to as the grantee, its successors or assigns, is hereby granted a franchise to construct, operate and maintain, for commercial purposes and in the public interest, television and radio broadcasting stations in and throughout the Philippines.”
A congressional franchise bill needs to be approved by the House of Representatives before it is transmitted to the Senate. The version of the bill approved by both chambers would then still need the president’s approval.
Duterte, however, has repeatedly criticized ABS-CBN and stated that he is determined to block the renewal of its franchise.
“Ang inyong franchise mag-end (your franchise will end) next year. If you are expecting na ma-renew 'yan (its renewal), I'm sorry. You're out. I will see to it that you're out,” the president said earlier this month.
Last year, the president said he disapproves of the renewal of the media company’s franchise but would not meddle in renewal talks.
“Now, ABS-CBN, their franchise is due for renewal... But I will never also intervene. But if I had my way, I will not give it back to you,” Duterte said in August 2018.
ABS-CBN’s future
Global watchdog organizations have since taken to ABS-CBN's side amid the franchise renewal issue, denouncing the Philippine government's alleged attack on press freedom and democracy.
Labor group Defend Job Philippines also said that the politicking is threatening the livelihood of thousands of ABS-CBN employees.
NUJP has asked Congress to act independently on the franchise renewal issue, estimating that between 10,000 to 11,000 are at risk of losing their jobs.
The hashtag #ABSCBNIsNotForSale trended on Twitter toward the year’s end with citizens reacting at the president’s tirades.
“We call on the community of independent Filipino journalists and on citizens who cherish democracy to band together and protect the free arena of ideas that the closure or forced sale of ABS-CBN would severely weaken,” the NUJP said in a statement posted New Year’s Eve.
“The alternative— the death of freedom of the press and of free expression— is too horrible to contemplate.”
Detained Sen. Leila de Lima also related the franchise renewal issue to what she said is a pattern of government repression against its critics.
“The closure of a media outlet over a personal whim and political vendetta has no place in a free, democratic and just society,” the senator said in a statement earlier this month.
“Clearly, the President’s attacks on Rappler and Inquirer, and recently, his renewed threats of blocking ABS-CBN’s franchise, are part of his regime’s blatant crackdown, broader propaganda, and misinformation against media outlets, opposition leaders and organizations who criticize and challenge his crooked and brutal policies.”
https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2019/12/31/1981058/three-month-countdown-what-are-abs-cbns-chances-renewing-its-franchise
(ABS-CBN’s contract is about to expire. Try to renew your franchise, let’s see what happens. If I were you, I might as well sell the network.)
Admin-led Congress
The NUJP described Duterte's statement as a veiled threat with “[w]ords that appear to be marching orders to his minions in Congress, led by Alan Peter Cayetano, who has admitted having ‘personal objections’ to renewing the franchise in a clear conflict of interest.”
ABS-CBN's franchise is set to expire on March 30, 2020, after which its broadcast services will cease operation.
At least five bills have been filed to extend the media network’s broadcasting operations for another 25 years.
The House of Representatives, meanwhile, has not acted on the pending legislation to renew the said franchise.
An administration-recognized super majority stands in the House with about 290 members. It is helmed by Speaker Cayetano who was the president’s running mate in the 2016 elections and Cabinet appointee prior to speakership.
Duterte also brokered the initial "term-sharing" agreement between Cayetano and Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Jay Velasco that saw the former rise to the speakership.
President’s signature needed
Broadcast companies, including radio and television networks, in the Philippines are required to seek a franchise from Congress under Republic Act 3846.
“No person, firm, company, association or corporation shall construct, install, establish, or operate a radio station within the Philippine Islands without having first obtained a franchise therefore from the Philippine Legislature,” RA 3846 reads.
ABS-CBN’s current franchise was granted a term of 25 years under Republic Act 7966, approved on March 30, 1995. It states:
“The ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation, hereunder referred to as the grantee, its successors or assigns, is hereby granted a franchise to construct, operate and maintain, for commercial purposes and in the public interest, television and radio broadcasting stations in and throughout the Philippines.”
A congressional franchise bill needs to be approved by the House of Representatives before it is transmitted to the Senate. The version of the bill approved by both chambers would then still need the president’s approval.
Duterte, however, has repeatedly criticized ABS-CBN and stated that he is determined to block the renewal of its franchise.
“Ang inyong franchise mag-end (your franchise will end) next year. If you are expecting na ma-renew 'yan (its renewal), I'm sorry. You're out. I will see to it that you're out,” the president said earlier this month.
Last year, the president said he disapproves of the renewal of the media company’s franchise but would not meddle in renewal talks.
“Now, ABS-CBN, their franchise is due for renewal... But I will never also intervene. But if I had my way, I will not give it back to you,” Duterte said in August 2018.
ABS-CBN’s future
Global watchdog organizations have since taken to ABS-CBN's side amid the franchise renewal issue, denouncing the Philippine government's alleged attack on press freedom and democracy.
Labor group Defend Job Philippines also said that the politicking is threatening the livelihood of thousands of ABS-CBN employees.
NUJP has asked Congress to act independently on the franchise renewal issue, estimating that between 10,000 to 11,000 are at risk of losing their jobs.
The hashtag #ABSCBNIsNotForSale trended on Twitter toward the year’s end with citizens reacting at the president’s tirades.
“We call on the community of independent Filipino journalists and on citizens who cherish democracy to band together and protect the free arena of ideas that the closure or forced sale of ABS-CBN would severely weaken,” the NUJP said in a statement posted New Year’s Eve.
“The alternative— the death of freedom of the press and of free expression— is too horrible to contemplate.”
Detained Sen. Leila de Lima also related the franchise renewal issue to what she said is a pattern of government repression against its critics.
“The closure of a media outlet over a personal whim and political vendetta has no place in a free, democratic and just society,” the senator said in a statement earlier this month.
“Clearly, the President’s attacks on Rappler and Inquirer, and recently, his renewed threats of blocking ABS-CBN’s franchise, are part of his regime’s blatant crackdown, broader propaganda, and misinformation against media outlets, opposition leaders and organizations who criticize and challenge his crooked and brutal policies.”
https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2019/12/31/1981058/three-month-countdown-what-are-abs-cbns-chances-renewing-its-franchise
Rizal Day part of millennium bash
AN AWARD-WINNING film based on the life of national hero Jose Rizal and a musical based on his novel ''Noli Me Tangere'' will be presented today at the Rizal Park as part of the millennium celebrations and to mark the 123rd anniversary of his death.
Rizal was executed by firing squad at the same park, which was then called Bagumbayan.
A day later, the park will also be the center of the millennium celebrations, starting with a special concelebrated Misa Milenya (Millennium Mass) to be officiated by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle.
The millennium celebration frenzy will be repeated in several other parts of the country, from Metro Manila to as far north as Benguet and as far south as Davao Oriental.
Celebration organizers have issued helpful tips for enjoying and living through the revelry, including bringing your own survival kits.
Today's Araw ng Dakilang Bayani (Day of the Great Hero), which is part of the Pistang Milenyo Filipino (Filipino Millennium Festival), will also include a retracing at 5:30 a.m. of Rizal's last footsteps from his prison cell at Fort Santiago to the execution site.
The retracing will be done by the members of the Order of the Knights of Rizal.
At 7 a.m., President Duterte is expected to lead the traditional flag-raising and wreath-laying at the Rizal Monument.
''Rizal,'' the 1998 movie directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya, will be shown at 8 p.m. at the Rizal Park's open-air auditorium, according to Tourism Director Romulo de los Reyes, festival chair.
''Kanser,'' the musical, will be staged at 6 p.m. at the same place. It is directed by Tony Espejo.
Also at 6 p.m., a light and sound show on the martyrdom of Rizal will be presented.
At 7 p.m., designer Lito Perez will hold a modern kimono fashion show at the park's Japanese garden.
All the Rizal Park shows are open to the public for free.
The millennium celebrations at the Rizal Park, which kicked off on Thursday, will be capped by a grand fireworks display tomorrow at midnight.
The Department of Budget and Management allocated P30 million for the festivities at the Rizal Park and in other parts of the country.
Vigor and commitment
Yesterday, only two days before the world bids goodbye to 2019, President Duterte urged the people to greet the new year ''with renewed vigor.''
Speaking on his weekly radio-TV program "Mula sa Masa, Para sa Masa," Mr. Duterte promised to ''further intensify my commitment to ensure good governance and provide the people, especially the poor, with better services.''
He said that like in most Filipino homes, he and his family would pray together on New Year's Eve, aside from joining the Rizal Park festivities.
The President and other members of the First Family will attend the 5 p.m. Mass to be said by Cardinal Tagle at the Quirino Grandstand tomorrow.
Representatives of labor, women and children, fishermen, farmers, indigenous communities and other sectors will join them in the offertory procession.
Bro. Mike Velarde, Servant-Leader of El Shaddai, earlier announced he expected about 500,000 flock members to also attend the millennium Mass.
Pope's message
Pope Francis message to the Filipino people will be read during the Mass at the Quirino Grandstand and in selected Marian shrines in other parts of the country, according to Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat, who chairs the Committee on the Turn of the Century Celebration.
The Mass, which will project the Philippines as a pilgrimage destination in Asia, will be covered live by the national multi-media.
The President will then welcome the new millennium by leading a symbolic kapit-bisig (linking of arms), which will be replicated all over the country.
People joining the celebration at the Rizal Park are advised to bring food.
''People should bring their own food as if they're going on a picnic because, unfortunately, we can't offer them any,'' said De los Reyes.
He also advised people to bring raincoats or umbrellas.
They should also be on alert for petty criminals such as holdup men and pickpockets, although policemen and security men will be roving around the park, he said.
He predicted that the Dec. 31 crowd at Rizal Park alone could swell to at least 5 million.
House watch
People at the Rizal Park will be screened for guns, firecrackers and drugs by about 1,000 roving members of the Western Police District before and during the celebration with the President, according to Chief Supt. Avelino Razon, WPD director.
''Make sure somebody stays home to keep watch against burglars who might take advantage of the situation,'' said Razon. ''Nonetheless, there will be enough patrol units going around the other parts of the city to discourage criminals during the celebration.''
A concert and a huge dance party will follow the 50-minute fireworks display.
''On a happy note, there are no high-risk areas and no serious threats to the celebration,'' the WPD chief added.
What not to bring
Organizers of the millennium party on Ayala Avenue in Makati City also have tips for frolickers.
o Bring some cash. ''You don't have to bring anything, just cash,'' said P/Chief Insp. Candido Ruiz, traffic commander of the Ayala party.
Food, drinks and souvenirs will be sold at different booths to be set up on Ayala by Makati's five-star hotels, restaurants and Ayala Center merchants.
o Bring protection from the rain.
o Don't bring guns.
''No one with a gun will be allowed to enter the party premises,'' said Ruiz. ''Only those who are authorized to bring guns (policemen, security force) will be allowed to do so.''
o Don't bring pointed objects such as knives, ice picks and the like.
o Merrymakers will be allowed to bring alcoholic drinks as long as they are in plastic containers. Bottled drinks--juice, soft drinks, beer, liquor--are strictly prohibited.
Ruiz said organizers had not decided if they would allow beer in can.
The party will be free for all, so everyone is invited to attend. ''You can come in any attire you want,'' he said.
o Vehicles will be barred from the avenues, but not revelers, said traffic Executive Director Ernesto Camarillo of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.
Star-studded
Why should people choose the Ayala party over those at The Fort in Fort Bonifacio, Rizal Park in Manila and Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City?
''Because top celebrities, show biz personalities will be there to perform live before the crowd, which is expected to be more than 100,000,'' said Ruiz.
Camarillo said party organizers had been receiving feelers that President Duterte would proceed to Ayala after the official millennium party at Rizal Park.
With the theme ''One with the World,'' the Makati party will be hosted by Ayala Land's Ayala Malls in cooperation with GMA-7.
It will be telecast worldwide as part of the 26-hour Millennium Day broadcast of Britain's BBC and the US-based ABC networks.
The party will start at 5 p.m. and will build up at about 10 p.m. when entertainers perform musical numbers on a giant stage at the intersection of Ayala and Makati avenues.
People in the Ayala party can watch the different millennium celebrations around the globe starting at 8 p.m. through giant TV screens on the two intersecting avenues.
From 11:50 p.m. to midnight, and again at 1:30 a.m., about 800 million viewers around the world will be tuning in on the Ayala millennium celebration.
''We want to showcase the Philippines as a world-class entertainment center and we've gathered our best talents to achieve that,''' said Ayala Land marketing manager Tina Esguerra.
The Ayala party will end with fireworks, laser shows and a confetti shower.
Pollution and firecrackers
Though likely to be ignored by millennium revelers, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources warned against burning tires and the wanton use of pyrotechnics for these are dangerous to health and the environment as well as to property.
In a statement, DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu said burning tires and pyrotechnics give off ozone-depleting sulfur dioxide, heavy metals and their oxides.
As of yesterday, one man had been killed and more than 150 injured, mostly by firecrackers, in pre-millennium celebrations, said police.
The first death was recorded on Tuesday when a motorcycle ridden by a man who had just bought a bunch of firecrackers turned into a high-speed firebomb in Valenzuela, Metro Manila.
The package exploded and ignited the vehicle after coming in contact with the exhaust pipe, killing a bystander and injuring three motorists including the motorcycle rider who had both legs amputated, said Supt. Nemesio Neron.
Elsewhere in the country, 150 people were injured in firecracker blasts and 10 wounded by stray bullets, said Senior Supt. Rodolfo Tor, chief of the firearms and explosives unit of the Philippine National Police. With reports from Norman Bordadora, TJ Burgonio, Carlito Pablo, Michael Lim Ubac, AFP
Rizal was executed by firing squad at the same park, which was then called Bagumbayan.
A day later, the park will also be the center of the millennium celebrations, starting with a special concelebrated Misa Milenya (Millennium Mass) to be officiated by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle.
The millennium celebration frenzy will be repeated in several other parts of the country, from Metro Manila to as far north as Benguet and as far south as Davao Oriental.
Celebration organizers have issued helpful tips for enjoying and living through the revelry, including bringing your own survival kits.
Today's Araw ng Dakilang Bayani (Day of the Great Hero), which is part of the Pistang Milenyo Filipino (Filipino Millennium Festival), will also include a retracing at 5:30 a.m. of Rizal's last footsteps from his prison cell at Fort Santiago to the execution site.
The retracing will be done by the members of the Order of the Knights of Rizal.
At 7 a.m., President Duterte is expected to lead the traditional flag-raising and wreath-laying at the Rizal Monument.
''Rizal,'' the 1998 movie directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya, will be shown at 8 p.m. at the Rizal Park's open-air auditorium, according to Tourism Director Romulo de los Reyes, festival chair.
''Kanser,'' the musical, will be staged at 6 p.m. at the same place. It is directed by Tony Espejo.
Also at 6 p.m., a light and sound show on the martyrdom of Rizal will be presented.
At 7 p.m., designer Lito Perez will hold a modern kimono fashion show at the park's Japanese garden.
All the Rizal Park shows are open to the public for free.
The millennium celebrations at the Rizal Park, which kicked off on Thursday, will be capped by a grand fireworks display tomorrow at midnight.
The Department of Budget and Management allocated P30 million for the festivities at the Rizal Park and in other parts of the country.
Vigor and commitment
Yesterday, only two days before the world bids goodbye to 2019, President Duterte urged the people to greet the new year ''with renewed vigor.''
Speaking on his weekly radio-TV program "Mula sa Masa, Para sa Masa," Mr. Duterte promised to ''further intensify my commitment to ensure good governance and provide the people, especially the poor, with better services.''
He said that like in most Filipino homes, he and his family would pray together on New Year's Eve, aside from joining the Rizal Park festivities.
The President and other members of the First Family will attend the 5 p.m. Mass to be said by Cardinal Tagle at the Quirino Grandstand tomorrow.
Representatives of labor, women and children, fishermen, farmers, indigenous communities and other sectors will join them in the offertory procession.
Bro. Mike Velarde, Servant-Leader of El Shaddai, earlier announced he expected about 500,000 flock members to also attend the millennium Mass.
Pope's message
Pope Francis message to the Filipino people will be read during the Mass at the Quirino Grandstand and in selected Marian shrines in other parts of the country, according to Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat, who chairs the Committee on the Turn of the Century Celebration.
The Mass, which will project the Philippines as a pilgrimage destination in Asia, will be covered live by the national multi-media.
The President will then welcome the new millennium by leading a symbolic kapit-bisig (linking of arms), which will be replicated all over the country.
People joining the celebration at the Rizal Park are advised to bring food.
''People should bring their own food as if they're going on a picnic because, unfortunately, we can't offer them any,'' said De los Reyes.
He also advised people to bring raincoats or umbrellas.
They should also be on alert for petty criminals such as holdup men and pickpockets, although policemen and security men will be roving around the park, he said.
He predicted that the Dec. 31 crowd at Rizal Park alone could swell to at least 5 million.
House watch
People at the Rizal Park will be screened for guns, firecrackers and drugs by about 1,000 roving members of the Western Police District before and during the celebration with the President, according to Chief Supt. Avelino Razon, WPD director.
''Make sure somebody stays home to keep watch against burglars who might take advantage of the situation,'' said Razon. ''Nonetheless, there will be enough patrol units going around the other parts of the city to discourage criminals during the celebration.''
A concert and a huge dance party will follow the 50-minute fireworks display.
''On a happy note, there are no high-risk areas and no serious threats to the celebration,'' the WPD chief added.
What not to bring
Organizers of the millennium party on Ayala Avenue in Makati City also have tips for frolickers.
o Bring some cash. ''You don't have to bring anything, just cash,'' said P/Chief Insp. Candido Ruiz, traffic commander of the Ayala party.
Food, drinks and souvenirs will be sold at different booths to be set up on Ayala by Makati's five-star hotels, restaurants and Ayala Center merchants.
o Bring protection from the rain.
o Don't bring guns.
''No one with a gun will be allowed to enter the party premises,'' said Ruiz. ''Only those who are authorized to bring guns (policemen, security force) will be allowed to do so.''
o Don't bring pointed objects such as knives, ice picks and the like.
o Merrymakers will be allowed to bring alcoholic drinks as long as they are in plastic containers. Bottled drinks--juice, soft drinks, beer, liquor--are strictly prohibited.
Ruiz said organizers had not decided if they would allow beer in can.
The party will be free for all, so everyone is invited to attend. ''You can come in any attire you want,'' he said.
o Vehicles will be barred from the avenues, but not revelers, said traffic Executive Director Ernesto Camarillo of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.
Star-studded
Why should people choose the Ayala party over those at The Fort in Fort Bonifacio, Rizal Park in Manila and Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City?
''Because top celebrities, show biz personalities will be there to perform live before the crowd, which is expected to be more than 100,000,'' said Ruiz.
Camarillo said party organizers had been receiving feelers that President Duterte would proceed to Ayala after the official millennium party at Rizal Park.
With the theme ''One with the World,'' the Makati party will be hosted by Ayala Land's Ayala Malls in cooperation with GMA-7.
It will be telecast worldwide as part of the 26-hour Millennium Day broadcast of Britain's BBC and the US-based ABC networks.
The party will start at 5 p.m. and will build up at about 10 p.m. when entertainers perform musical numbers on a giant stage at the intersection of Ayala and Makati avenues.
People in the Ayala party can watch the different millennium celebrations around the globe starting at 8 p.m. through giant TV screens on the two intersecting avenues.
From 11:50 p.m. to midnight, and again at 1:30 a.m., about 800 million viewers around the world will be tuning in on the Ayala millennium celebration.
''We want to showcase the Philippines as a world-class entertainment center and we've gathered our best talents to achieve that,''' said Ayala Land marketing manager Tina Esguerra.
The Ayala party will end with fireworks, laser shows and a confetti shower.
Pollution and firecrackers
Though likely to be ignored by millennium revelers, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources warned against burning tires and the wanton use of pyrotechnics for these are dangerous to health and the environment as well as to property.
In a statement, DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu said burning tires and pyrotechnics give off ozone-depleting sulfur dioxide, heavy metals and their oxides.
As of yesterday, one man had been killed and more than 150 injured, mostly by firecrackers, in pre-millennium celebrations, said police.
The first death was recorded on Tuesday when a motorcycle ridden by a man who had just bought a bunch of firecrackers turned into a high-speed firebomb in Valenzuela, Metro Manila.
The package exploded and ignited the vehicle after coming in contact with the exhaust pipe, killing a bystander and injuring three motorists including the motorcycle rider who had both legs amputated, said Supt. Nemesio Neron.
Elsewhere in the country, 150 people were injured in firecracker blasts and 10 wounded by stray bullets, said Senior Supt. Rodolfo Tor, chief of the firearms and explosives unit of the Philippine National Police. With reports from Norman Bordadora, TJ Burgonio, Carlito Pablo, Michael Lim Ubac, AFP
DFA at OWWA Rescue Office, bubuksan sa Palayan City
Inaasahang bubuksan sa Marso ang satellite office ng Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) at Overseas Worker Welfare Administration (OWWA) Rescue Office sa Palayan City, Nueva Ecija.
Ayon kay Palayan City Mayor Rianne Cuevas, nag-uusap na sila ng mga opisyal ng DFA at OWWA para maglagay ng satellite office sa kanyang probinsiya upang hindi na mahirapan ang kanyang mga kababayan na OFW sa pagkuha at pag-renew ng kanilang pasaporte.
Sinabi ng Alkalde, maging ang mga OFW sa Aurora province at iba pang kalapit na lugar ay maaari ng kumuha ng kanilang passport sa Palayan City at hindi na kailangan pang lumuwas ng Metro Manila sa oras na mabuksan ang mga nabanggit na opisina.
“Nais lang po nating pagaanin ang mga buhay ng ating mga bayaning OFW habang nilalakad nila ang kanilang mga papeles, clearance at kontrata,” anang Alkalde.
Maging ang seaman’s book at iba pang requirement ay maaari ng kunin sa Palayan City “One Stop Business Hub” sa oras na maging ‘full operation’ na ito.
Sa ngayon, anang Alkalde ay inaalam na ng Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) kung gaano karami ang mga marino sa Nueva Ecija at Aurora para sa kanilang paglalagay ng processing office sa lungsod.
Para naman sa mga maiiwang pamilya ng OFW, maglalagay na rin ang Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) satellite office, maging ang “Go Negosyo” para sa maaaring pagkakakitaan ng mga ito habang nasa abroad ang kanilang kaanak.
Ayon pa kay Mayor Cuevas, libre ang pag-print, xerox, paggamit ng computer at internet sa One Stop Shop Center for OFW (OSSCO) office.
https://www.philstar.com/pilipino-star-ngayon/bansa/2019/12/30/1980751/dfa-owwa-rescue-office-bubuksan-sa-palayan-city
Ayon kay Palayan City Mayor Rianne Cuevas, nag-uusap na sila ng mga opisyal ng DFA at OWWA para maglagay ng satellite office sa kanyang probinsiya upang hindi na mahirapan ang kanyang mga kababayan na OFW sa pagkuha at pag-renew ng kanilang pasaporte.
Sinabi ng Alkalde, maging ang mga OFW sa Aurora province at iba pang kalapit na lugar ay maaari ng kumuha ng kanilang passport sa Palayan City at hindi na kailangan pang lumuwas ng Metro Manila sa oras na mabuksan ang mga nabanggit na opisina.
“Nais lang po nating pagaanin ang mga buhay ng ating mga bayaning OFW habang nilalakad nila ang kanilang mga papeles, clearance at kontrata,” anang Alkalde.
Maging ang seaman’s book at iba pang requirement ay maaari ng kunin sa Palayan City “One Stop Business Hub” sa oras na maging ‘full operation’ na ito.
Sa ngayon, anang Alkalde ay inaalam na ng Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) kung gaano karami ang mga marino sa Nueva Ecija at Aurora para sa kanilang paglalagay ng processing office sa lungsod.
Para naman sa mga maiiwang pamilya ng OFW, maglalagay na rin ang Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) satellite office, maging ang “Go Negosyo” para sa maaaring pagkakakitaan ng mga ito habang nasa abroad ang kanilang kaanak.
Ayon pa kay Mayor Cuevas, libre ang pag-print, xerox, paggamit ng computer at internet sa One Stop Shop Center for OFW (OSSCO) office.
https://www.philstar.com/pilipino-star-ngayon/bansa/2019/12/30/1980751/dfa-owwa-rescue-office-bubuksan-sa-palayan-city
TV5 open to let Lopezes buy block airtime if ABS-CBN doesn’t get franchise
WHILE TV5 Network Inc. is reluctant to take any step toward helping save ABS-CBN Corp.—in danger of closure unless it gets it’s a new franchise by March—the former is open to allowing the latter to buy block airtime to stream its content.
Manuel V. Pangilinan, who chairs TV 5’s parent PLDT Inc., also debunked online reports that the Lopez-led network is in talks to buy TV 5.
“No one is talking to us,” he said. “I don’t think they want to buy into a losing company.”
Pangilinan stressed his group’s cool reception to the prospect of being acquired.
“We’re not offering them anything, we’re not suggesting anything to them. We don’t want to take the first step,” he said.
ABS-CBN’s congressional franchise will expire on March 30. President Duterte has made it his mission to “block” the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, claiming that the company had been remiss in its duties as a media platform.
With this, Pangilinan said his group remains open to negotiating for terms not related to any form of equity acquisition.
“We have lots of highways on 5. Setting aside the politics, if they want to [buy] block time, we’re prepared to talk. We don’t have a lot of entertainment content, anyway. So, it’s up to them,” he said.
https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/12/30/tv5-open-to-let-lopezes-buy-block-airtime-if-abs-cbn-doesnt-get-franchise/
Manuel V. Pangilinan, who chairs TV 5’s parent PLDT Inc., also debunked online reports that the Lopez-led network is in talks to buy TV 5.
“No one is talking to us,” he said. “I don’t think they want to buy into a losing company.”
Pangilinan stressed his group’s cool reception to the prospect of being acquired.
“We’re not offering them anything, we’re not suggesting anything to them. We don’t want to take the first step,” he said.
ABS-CBN’s congressional franchise will expire on March 30. President Duterte has made it his mission to “block” the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, claiming that the company had been remiss in its duties as a media platform.
With this, Pangilinan said his group remains open to negotiating for terms not related to any form of equity acquisition.
“We have lots of highways on 5. Setting aside the politics, if they want to [buy] block time, we’re prepared to talk. We don’t have a lot of entertainment content, anyway. So, it’s up to them,” he said.
https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/12/30/tv5-open-to-let-lopezes-buy-block-airtime-if-abs-cbn-doesnt-get-franchise/
Pangan: Addressing the job mismatch
A BIG boost to addressing jobs mismatch with employers' demand is the entry of Asian Development Bank via a $400-million policy-based loan to support the Philippine government's efforts to increase youth employment.
At present, Public Employment Service Office (PESO) offices of local government units provide employment to the youth through its Special Program for the Employment of Students during vacation, or precisely in April every year and grant them salaries for 20 days of immersion in government offices and fast food chains.
At least, the salaries received by the students can augment funds for their tuition and other school needs.
I understand that Asian Development Bank has a long standing partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) regarding youth employment programs and it has plans to continue helping generate more job opportunities for young Filipinos.
I hope private Filipino entities would follow suit and give opportunities for employment to Filipino compatriots. ADB has a list of unemployed Filipinos, particularly the women sector and supports our labor policy referral including introduction of unemployment insurance.
ADB loan aims to address the skills mismatch between young job seekers and the competencies required by employers and I hope it will be used for this purpose.
* * *
Budget delays and boo-boos. There are apprehensions that the General Appropriations Bill for 2020 may suffer the same delay as last year's budget. Oh no!
But Senate President Vicente Sotto III expressed confidence that there would be no sad repeat of the Senate-House impasse over the 2019 national budget, blaming the P95 billion worth of post-ratification insertions by the lawmakers. Mahilig yata ang mga kongresista natin sa insertions!
The bad effect on the economy was witnessed by us, caused by the delay. Ayayay!
* * *
A bit of good news for seniors. Some 100 senior citizens in Pasay City were hired as temporary airport ushers by way of an agreement between the local government unit of Pasay City, the Manila International Airport Authority, Ang Probinsiyano party-list and Dole.
Reportedly, they will perform manageable tasks such as guiding airport passengers to their seats and to offices the patrons need to go to or which lanes to queue in.
The seniors will work for three hours in the morning and another three hours in the afternoon for 15 days with a salary of P537 daily wage rate.
I just hope other local government units will employ seniors in their turfs.
* * *
Non-renewal of ABS-CBN franchise. It is sad to hear that this entertainment giant network has been the target of the President's ire that its franchise will not be renewed by Congress, which is dominated by Duterte's allies.
Whatever will be the fate of the franchise, so many of its stars, artists and other workers will suffer the loss of their respective jobs just because of Duterte's tantrums and vindictiveness. Whew!
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1837974
At present, Public Employment Service Office (PESO) offices of local government units provide employment to the youth through its Special Program for the Employment of Students during vacation, or precisely in April every year and grant them salaries for 20 days of immersion in government offices and fast food chains.
At least, the salaries received by the students can augment funds for their tuition and other school needs.
I understand that Asian Development Bank has a long standing partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) regarding youth employment programs and it has plans to continue helping generate more job opportunities for young Filipinos.
I hope private Filipino entities would follow suit and give opportunities for employment to Filipino compatriots. ADB has a list of unemployed Filipinos, particularly the women sector and supports our labor policy referral including introduction of unemployment insurance.
ADB loan aims to address the skills mismatch between young job seekers and the competencies required by employers and I hope it will be used for this purpose.
* * *
Budget delays and boo-boos. There are apprehensions that the General Appropriations Bill for 2020 may suffer the same delay as last year's budget. Oh no!
But Senate President Vicente Sotto III expressed confidence that there would be no sad repeat of the Senate-House impasse over the 2019 national budget, blaming the P95 billion worth of post-ratification insertions by the lawmakers. Mahilig yata ang mga kongresista natin sa insertions!
The bad effect on the economy was witnessed by us, caused by the delay. Ayayay!
* * *
A bit of good news for seniors. Some 100 senior citizens in Pasay City were hired as temporary airport ushers by way of an agreement between the local government unit of Pasay City, the Manila International Airport Authority, Ang Probinsiyano party-list and Dole.
Reportedly, they will perform manageable tasks such as guiding airport passengers to their seats and to offices the patrons need to go to or which lanes to queue in.
The seniors will work for three hours in the morning and another three hours in the afternoon for 15 days with a salary of P537 daily wage rate.
I just hope other local government units will employ seniors in their turfs.
* * *
Non-renewal of ABS-CBN franchise. It is sad to hear that this entertainment giant network has been the target of the President's ire that its franchise will not be renewed by Congress, which is dominated by Duterte's allies.
Whatever will be the fate of the franchise, so many of its stars, artists and other workers will suffer the loss of their respective jobs just because of Duterte's tantrums and vindictiveness. Whew!
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1837974