By Vanne Terrazola
Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon on Saturday called on the House of Representatives to act on the legislative franchise of media and entertainment conglomerate ABS-CBN.
Drilon, in an interview over DWIZ radio, said public interest dictates that congressmen should take up the long-languishing bills seeking the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, which will expire on March 30.
“Mayroon tayong tungkulin (We have a duty). Nakabinbin ang franchise application, March 30 ang deadline (The franchise application is pending, and the deadline is on March 30). It is in the public interest that it should be acted upon,” he said.
House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano on Friday dismissed as “not that urgent” the discussions on the franchise renewal of ABS-CBN, saying the media giant may still operate until 2022.
He echoed Senate President Vicente Sotto III and Isabela Rep. Antonio Albano who earlier said that ABS-CBN could operate as long as bills extending or renewing its franchise are pending.
But Drilon, who was former Department of Justice (DOJ) secretary, maintained that a legislative franchise is needed for the company to continue doing business beyond March.
He recalled issuing an opinion, as DOJ chief, on June 20, 1991 stating that a certain radio station can continue to operate without a franchise from Congress.
“However, the Supreme Court (SC), in a case involving Associate Communications, said a franchise is needed [to continue operating],” he said in a mix of English and Filipino.
“Kaya ang sinasabi ko ay dapat aktuhan na ito (That’s why I was saying that this should be acted upon). Kung hindi pwede, eh di hindi pwede (If the franchise renewal was denied, then they can no longer operate). Habang nakabinbin ito (Because as long as it is pending), ABS-CBN’s continued broadcast will always be questioned, lalo na kung (especially if) they will continue to operate on the basis of the provisional authority by the NTC (National Telecommunications Commission), na pwedeng i-withdraw anytime (which can be withdrawn anytime),” Drilon said.
Bills for the extension of ABS-CBN’s franchise have been pending at the House of Representatives since the 16th Congress.
The chamber is dominated by allies of President Duterte, who has repeatedly vowed to block the franchise grant for the network’s failure to air his 2016 campaign ad.
On Monday, Feb. 10, Solicitor General Jose Calida filed a quo warranto petition before the SC to revoke ABS-CBN’s franchise.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/02/15/drilon-urges-house-to-act-on-abs-cbn-franchise-renewal/
Saturday, February 15, 2020
Cayetano: Press freedom and media franchise are two different things
Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano on Saturday said people should not equate press freedom with media franchise, and believe that free speech ends with Congress' failure to renew ABS-CBN network's privilege to broadcast.
Cayetano cleared up the issue amid condemnation by some journalists of the supposed calculated move to shut down broadcast network ABS-CBN on "flimsy" grounds, which they see as curtailment of press freedom.
“If press freedom is automatic, then there should be no more hearings in Congress (on the ABS-CBN franchise). We will just have to grant it automatically. But no, Congress has to legislate it," Cayetano said in a statement.
Cayetano also urged the public to not equate press freedom with the franchise.
While Cayetano claimed he understood the concerns of those fighting for the freedom of the press, he maintained that this was "not an open-close case of press freedom."
"It’s also accountability to our present laws, especially election laws. Personally, that’s what I want to hear when the hearings are held, what reforms ABS-CBN will undertake to address their perceived bias and alleged violations of their franchise,” he said.
On the other hand, the Speaker urged critics and supporters of ABS-CBN to send their comments to the House of Representatives on the renewal of the network's franchise.
"All those opposed to renewing the franchise, submit your comments to the House committee on legislative franchises, which will forward these to ABS-CBN so they can already respond,” Cayetano said.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has given ABS-CBN 10 days to submit their answer to the quo warranto petition filed by Solicitor General Jose Calida.
“On one hand, I would rather [that] the SolGen did not file it. But on the other hand, at least, people are now talking about the issues," said Cayetano.
"As for me, I am open-minded. I have read the reply of ABS-CBN to the SolGen and I am waiting for their official comment [...] I think this is the way to find a solution. Welcome the issues against ABS-CBN, but also welcome their reply, so that we can finally get somewhere with all of these," he added. —Joahna Lei Casilao/LBG, GMA News
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/726130/cayetano-press-freedom-and-media-franchise-are-two-different-things/story/
Cayetano cleared up the issue amid condemnation by some journalists of the supposed calculated move to shut down broadcast network ABS-CBN on "flimsy" grounds, which they see as curtailment of press freedom.
“If press freedom is automatic, then there should be no more hearings in Congress (on the ABS-CBN franchise). We will just have to grant it automatically. But no, Congress has to legislate it," Cayetano said in a statement.
Cayetano also urged the public to not equate press freedom with the franchise.
While Cayetano claimed he understood the concerns of those fighting for the freedom of the press, he maintained that this was "not an open-close case of press freedom."
"It’s also accountability to our present laws, especially election laws. Personally, that’s what I want to hear when the hearings are held, what reforms ABS-CBN will undertake to address their perceived bias and alleged violations of their franchise,” he said.
On the other hand, the Speaker urged critics and supporters of ABS-CBN to send their comments to the House of Representatives on the renewal of the network's franchise.
"All those opposed to renewing the franchise, submit your comments to the House committee on legislative franchises, which will forward these to ABS-CBN so they can already respond,” Cayetano said.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has given ABS-CBN 10 days to submit their answer to the quo warranto petition filed by Solicitor General Jose Calida.
“On one hand, I would rather [that] the SolGen did not file it. But on the other hand, at least, people are now talking about the issues," said Cayetano.
"As for me, I am open-minded. I have read the reply of ABS-CBN to the SolGen and I am waiting for their official comment [...] I think this is the way to find a solution. Welcome the issues against ABS-CBN, but also welcome their reply, so that we can finally get somewhere with all of these," he added. —Joahna Lei Casilao/LBG, GMA News
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/726130/cayetano-press-freedom-and-media-franchise-are-two-different-things/story/
ABS-CBN franchise bills not urgent? House used to multitasking, solon says
Albay 1st District Rep. Edcel Lagman on Saturday said lawmakers are used to multi-tasking as he cited House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano's "foot-dragging" on the franchise renewal of ABS-CBN Corp., which is set to expire in March.
The House of Representatives, he said, "could legislate on several measures within a short timeframe or almost simultaneously," as he countered Cayetano's statements Friday that the network's franchise renewal is "not that urgent."
"Moreover, the committee on legislative franchises is not overwhelmed with the pendency of major bills, which are more greatly important than the 11 proposals to renew ABS-CBN’s franchise," Lagman said in a statement.
Cayetano earlier questioned the urgency of holding congressional hearings on the network's franchise bid, saying ABS-CBN could still operate until the 18th Congress ends in 2022.
"Hindi [ito] ganoon ka-urgent. Bakit? Kasi hanggang December 31, 2022, pwedeng mag-operate," he said.
(This is not that urgent. Why? Because ABS-CBN can operate until December 31, 2022.)
In his statement, Lagman said the media giant is being given an "illusory remedy" of a provisional authority from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to continue broadcast operations past the expiration of its franchise.
"ABS-CBN is being given an illusory alternative remedy instead of being granted a justified renewal of its franchise," he said.
"The renewal of a franchise is the legal, proper and traditional course of action under the sole jurisdiction of the Congress," he added.
The NTC, Lagman said, could be influenced by President Rodrigo Duterte who is determined to block the network's franchise renewal.
"If the House of Representatives, which is an independent branch of government, kowtows to the repeated pronouncements of the President that he is against the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, with more reason that the NTC, an agency under the Executive Department headed by the President himself, would go against the wishes of President Duterte by issuing a provisional authority," he said.
Some 11 bills seeking an extension of ABS-CBN's franchise were filed before the lower chamber.
'IMPARTIAL JOB'
Meanwhile, Cayetano, in a statement issued on Saturday, reiterated the House would do an "impartial job" in taking up measures seeking to renew the network's franchise.
"So, what I request is we join the issues. All those opposed to renewing the franchise, submit your comments to the House committee on legislative franchises, which will forward these to ABS-CBN so they can already respond. That’s the way our democracy works," he said.
On the move of the Office of the Solicitor General to shut down ABS-CBN through a quo warranto petition, Cayetano said he'd "rather the SolGen did not file."
"But on the other hand, at least, people are now talking about the issues. As for me, I am open-minded. I have read the reply of ABS-CBN to the SolGen and I am waiting for their official comment,” he said.
The franchise woes that ABS-CBN is facing, Cayetano added, should not be equated with press freedom.
"This is not an open-close case of press freedom. It’s also accountability to our present laws, especially election laws. Personally, that’s what I want to hear when the hearings are held, what reforms ABS-CBN will undertake to address their perceived bias and alleged violations of their franchise," he said.
For several days, ABS-CBN had received an outpouring of support from different sectors, saying the government's move is an assault to press freedom and threatens the livelihood of thousands of employees.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/15/20/abs-cbn-franchise-bills-not-urgent-house-used-to-multitasking-solon-says
The House of Representatives, he said, "could legislate on several measures within a short timeframe or almost simultaneously," as he countered Cayetano's statements Friday that the network's franchise renewal is "not that urgent."
"Moreover, the committee on legislative franchises is not overwhelmed with the pendency of major bills, which are more greatly important than the 11 proposals to renew ABS-CBN’s franchise," Lagman said in a statement.
Cayetano earlier questioned the urgency of holding congressional hearings on the network's franchise bid, saying ABS-CBN could still operate until the 18th Congress ends in 2022.
"Hindi [ito] ganoon ka-urgent. Bakit? Kasi hanggang December 31, 2022, pwedeng mag-operate," he said.
(This is not that urgent. Why? Because ABS-CBN can operate until December 31, 2022.)
In his statement, Lagman said the media giant is being given an "illusory remedy" of a provisional authority from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to continue broadcast operations past the expiration of its franchise.
"ABS-CBN is being given an illusory alternative remedy instead of being granted a justified renewal of its franchise," he said.
"The renewal of a franchise is the legal, proper and traditional course of action under the sole jurisdiction of the Congress," he added.
The NTC, Lagman said, could be influenced by President Rodrigo Duterte who is determined to block the network's franchise renewal.
"If the House of Representatives, which is an independent branch of government, kowtows to the repeated pronouncements of the President that he is against the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, with more reason that the NTC, an agency under the Executive Department headed by the President himself, would go against the wishes of President Duterte by issuing a provisional authority," he said.
Some 11 bills seeking an extension of ABS-CBN's franchise were filed before the lower chamber.
'IMPARTIAL JOB'
Meanwhile, Cayetano, in a statement issued on Saturday, reiterated the House would do an "impartial job" in taking up measures seeking to renew the network's franchise.
"So, what I request is we join the issues. All those opposed to renewing the franchise, submit your comments to the House committee on legislative franchises, which will forward these to ABS-CBN so they can already respond. That’s the way our democracy works," he said.
On the move of the Office of the Solicitor General to shut down ABS-CBN through a quo warranto petition, Cayetano said he'd "rather the SolGen did not file."
"But on the other hand, at least, people are now talking about the issues. As for me, I am open-minded. I have read the reply of ABS-CBN to the SolGen and I am waiting for their official comment,” he said.
The franchise woes that ABS-CBN is facing, Cayetano added, should not be equated with press freedom.
"This is not an open-close case of press freedom. It’s also accountability to our present laws, especially election laws. Personally, that’s what I want to hear when the hearings are held, what reforms ABS-CBN will undertake to address their perceived bias and alleged violations of their franchise," he said.
For several days, ABS-CBN had received an outpouring of support from different sectors, saying the government's move is an assault to press freedom and threatens the livelihood of thousands of employees.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/15/20/abs-cbn-franchise-bills-not-urgent-house-used-to-multitasking-solon-says
Lagman to Cayetano: Stop foot-dragging on ABS-CBN franchise renewal
Albay 1st District Representative Edcel Lagman says Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano's timetable for the House to take up the ABS-CBN franchise renewal 'reveals a patent prolongation'
Albay 1st District Representative Edcel Lagman on Saturday, February 15, urged the House of Representatives to act on the franchise renewal of network giant ABS-CBN now, instead of offering the "illusory remedy" of a provisional authority from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to allow its operations past March 30.
“ABS-CBN is being given an illusory alternative remedy instead of being granted a justified renewal of its franchise,” Lagman said in a statement.
"The renewal of a franchise is the legal, proper, and traditional course of action under the sole jurisdiction of the Congress," he added.
ABS-CBN's franchise will expire on March 30. Several bills have been filed in Congress to renew it, but are mostly left untouched by legislators.
Lagman issued the statement a day after Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano downplayed the urgency of tackling the ABS-CBN franchise renewal amid criticism over the slow pace of the process. Cayetano had said that the network can secure a provisional authority to operate from the NTC while the 18th Congress has not adjourned sine die.
"The reasons proffered by Speaker Alan Cayetano for foot-dragging on the renewal of the franchise of ABS-CBN are not so overriding as to sacrifice the freedoms of the press and expression for expediency,” he said.
"If the House of Representatives, which is an independent branch of government, kowtows to the repeated pronouncements of the President that he is against the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, with more reason that the NTC, an agency under the Executive Department headed by the President himself, would go against the wishes of President Duterte by issuing a provisional authority," Lagman added.
On Cayetano's argument that the House had other more pressing measures to attend to, Lagman said that Congress "is used to multi-tasking so much so that it could legislate on several measures within a short timeframe or almost simultaneously."
He also noted that the House committee on legislative franchises is "not overwhelmed with the pendency of major bills which are more greatly important than the 11 proposals to renew ABS-CBN’s franchise."
"The timetable announced by Speaker Cayetano for the House to take up the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise within the duration of the 18th Congress or up to the latest in December 2022 reveals a patent prolongation before the renewal can be addressed even as the May 2022 general elections would necessitate the adjournment of the Congress as early as February 2022 and long after the expiration of the said franchise on March 30, 2020," Lagman said.
On February 10, Solicitor General Jose Calida filed a quo warranto petition asking the Supreme Court to nullify the franchises of ABS-CBN and ABS-CBN Convergence, Inc "as they are unlawfully exercising their legislative franchises" – an allegation that ABS-CBN denied.
President Rodrigo Duterte has repeatedly publicly lambasted the network, often complaining that it did not air his political ads during the presidential campaign in 2016. He had also said that the network would not get a franchise renewal under his watch.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/251894-edcel-lagman-house-leaders-act-on-abs-cbn-franchise-renewal
Albay 1st District Representative Edcel Lagman on Saturday, February 15, urged the House of Representatives to act on the franchise renewal of network giant ABS-CBN now, instead of offering the "illusory remedy" of a provisional authority from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to allow its operations past March 30.
“ABS-CBN is being given an illusory alternative remedy instead of being granted a justified renewal of its franchise,” Lagman said in a statement.
"The renewal of a franchise is the legal, proper, and traditional course of action under the sole jurisdiction of the Congress," he added.
ABS-CBN's franchise will expire on March 30. Several bills have been filed in Congress to renew it, but are mostly left untouched by legislators.
Lagman issued the statement a day after Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano downplayed the urgency of tackling the ABS-CBN franchise renewal amid criticism over the slow pace of the process. Cayetano had said that the network can secure a provisional authority to operate from the NTC while the 18th Congress has not adjourned sine die.
"The reasons proffered by Speaker Alan Cayetano for foot-dragging on the renewal of the franchise of ABS-CBN are not so overriding as to sacrifice the freedoms of the press and expression for expediency,” he said.
"If the House of Representatives, which is an independent branch of government, kowtows to the repeated pronouncements of the President that he is against the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, with more reason that the NTC, an agency under the Executive Department headed by the President himself, would go against the wishes of President Duterte by issuing a provisional authority," Lagman added.
On Cayetano's argument that the House had other more pressing measures to attend to, Lagman said that Congress "is used to multi-tasking so much so that it could legislate on several measures within a short timeframe or almost simultaneously."
He also noted that the House committee on legislative franchises is "not overwhelmed with the pendency of major bills which are more greatly important than the 11 proposals to renew ABS-CBN’s franchise."
"The timetable announced by Speaker Cayetano for the House to take up the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise within the duration of the 18th Congress or up to the latest in December 2022 reveals a patent prolongation before the renewal can be addressed even as the May 2022 general elections would necessitate the adjournment of the Congress as early as February 2022 and long after the expiration of the said franchise on March 30, 2020," Lagman said.
On February 10, Solicitor General Jose Calida filed a quo warranto petition asking the Supreme Court to nullify the franchises of ABS-CBN and ABS-CBN Convergence, Inc "as they are unlawfully exercising their legislative franchises" – an allegation that ABS-CBN denied.
President Rodrigo Duterte has repeatedly publicly lambasted the network, often complaining that it did not air his political ads during the presidential campaign in 2016. He had also said that the network would not get a franchise renewal under his watch.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/251894-edcel-lagman-house-leaders-act-on-abs-cbn-franchise-renewal
Solon refutes Cayetano: House can multi-task for ABS-CBN franchise
An opposition lawmaker criticized the reasons being given by House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano for delaying discussions on the renewal of ABS-CBN's franchise.
Cayetano on Friday said the lower house is still too busy with pressing concerns, and even if it does not start deliberations soon, ABS-CBN can continue operating until December 31, 2022. The media giant's franchise expires March 30, but Cayetano said there have been agreements between the House and the National Telecommunications Commission to allow media and utility firms to remain in business amid pending franchise renewals.
However, Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman, one of the principal authors of a resolution supporting the renewal of ABS-CBN's franchise, said Congress – particularly the House Committee on Legislative Franchises – does not have too much on its table to warrant the "foot-dragging."
"The House is used to multi-tasking so much so that it could legislate on several measures within a short timeframe or almost simultaneously," Lagman said in a statement on Saturday.
He added that assuring ABS-CBN that it can still broadcast news and content until end of the 18th Congress even without a franchise is tantamount to giving it an "illusory alternative remedy."
The "legal, proper, and traditional course of action" is to decide on whether or not to grant ABS-CBN another 25 years to operate, Lagman stressed.
"The reasons proffered by Speaker Alan Cayetano for foot-dragging on the renewal of the franchise of ABS-CBN are not so overriding as to sacrifice the freedoms of the press and expression for expediency," Lagman said.
ABS-CBN has another battle in the Supreme Court as Solicitor General Jose Calida filed a petition seeking to void the network's existing franchise. The government's top lawyer cited "highly abusive practices," including allowing foreign investors to "take part in the ownership of a Philippine mass media entity" as well as launching media services without prior approval from the NTC.
The quo warranto petition— lodged against ABS-CBN Corporation and its subsidiary, ABS-CBN Convergence Inc.—came weeks before the network’s existing franchise is set to expire on March 30. Several government officials— including the media company itself— denounced the move, saying it has no factual basis. Human Rights Watch Philippines also condemned the legal maneuver, saying it had "all the indications of political harassment."
President Rodrigo Duterte has personally vowed to put the company and its subsidiaries out of business, even telling its executives to just sell the company. He earlier also publicly spoke about his ire against ABS-CBN for not airing his political ads during the May 2016 elections, where he eventually won.
Both the House leadership and Calida stressed that their decisions on the network's francise are not motivated by politics.
https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/2/15/lagman-cayetano-ABS-CBN-franchise.html
Cayetano on Friday said the lower house is still too busy with pressing concerns, and even if it does not start deliberations soon, ABS-CBN can continue operating until December 31, 2022. The media giant's franchise expires March 30, but Cayetano said there have been agreements between the House and the National Telecommunications Commission to allow media and utility firms to remain in business amid pending franchise renewals.
However, Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman, one of the principal authors of a resolution supporting the renewal of ABS-CBN's franchise, said Congress – particularly the House Committee on Legislative Franchises – does not have too much on its table to warrant the "foot-dragging."
"The House is used to multi-tasking so much so that it could legislate on several measures within a short timeframe or almost simultaneously," Lagman said in a statement on Saturday.
He added that assuring ABS-CBN that it can still broadcast news and content until end of the 18th Congress even without a franchise is tantamount to giving it an "illusory alternative remedy."
The "legal, proper, and traditional course of action" is to decide on whether or not to grant ABS-CBN another 25 years to operate, Lagman stressed.
"The reasons proffered by Speaker Alan Cayetano for foot-dragging on the renewal of the franchise of ABS-CBN are not so overriding as to sacrifice the freedoms of the press and expression for expediency," Lagman said.
ABS-CBN has another battle in the Supreme Court as Solicitor General Jose Calida filed a petition seeking to void the network's existing franchise. The government's top lawyer cited "highly abusive practices," including allowing foreign investors to "take part in the ownership of a Philippine mass media entity" as well as launching media services without prior approval from the NTC.
The quo warranto petition— lodged against ABS-CBN Corporation and its subsidiary, ABS-CBN Convergence Inc.—came weeks before the network’s existing franchise is set to expire on March 30. Several government officials— including the media company itself— denounced the move, saying it has no factual basis. Human Rights Watch Philippines also condemned the legal maneuver, saying it had "all the indications of political harassment."
President Rodrigo Duterte has personally vowed to put the company and its subsidiaries out of business, even telling its executives to just sell the company. He earlier also publicly spoke about his ire against ABS-CBN for not airing his political ads during the May 2016 elections, where he eventually won.
Both the House leadership and Calida stressed that their decisions on the network's francise are not motivated by politics.
https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/2/15/lagman-cayetano-ABS-CBN-franchise.html
Lagman hits Cayetano's excuse for foot-dragging on ABS-CBN franchise
Albay representative Edcel Lagman on Saturday slammed Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano's statement that time is not of the essence in regard to the renewal of the ABS-CBN's franchise, which is due to expire on March 30, 2020.
In statement on Saturday Lagman said, "The reasons proffered by Speaker Alan Cayetano for foot-dragging on the renewal of the franchise of ABS-CBN are not so overriding as to sacrifice the freedoms of the press and expression for expediency."
Lagman also assailed Cayetano's proposed "illusory" remedy for the television network to continue broadcasting in the event that its franchise is not renewed.
According to Lagman, Cayetano's remark that the TV network can continue operations by securing a provisional authority from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) as long as the 18th Congress has not adjourned sine die is illusory.
"If the House of Representatives, which is an independent branch of government, kowtows to the repeated pronouncements of the President Rodrigo Duterte that he is against the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, with more reason that the NTC, an agency under the Executive Department headed by the President himself, would go against the wishes of President Duterte by issuing a provisional authority," Lagman said.
ABS-CBN is being given an illusory alternative remedy instead of being granted a justified renewal of its franchise, he pointed out.
Last Friday, Lagman insisted that the renewal of the the TV network's franchise is under the sole jurisdiction of the House of Representatives.
Meanwhile, Buhay party-list representative Joselito Atienza lambasted Speaker Cayetano for his purported inability to calendar the hearing for ABS-CBN's network franchise bills.
At a press forum in Quezon City on Saturday, Atienza said he is "very" frustrated with Cayetano for failing to recognize the significance of acting on the issue which is of national interest. —with a report from Flor Taguinod/LBG, GMA News
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/726102/lagman-hits-cayetano-s-excuse-for-foot-dragging-on-abs-cbn-franchise/story/
In statement on Saturday Lagman said, "The reasons proffered by Speaker Alan Cayetano for foot-dragging on the renewal of the franchise of ABS-CBN are not so overriding as to sacrifice the freedoms of the press and expression for expediency."
Lagman also assailed Cayetano's proposed "illusory" remedy for the television network to continue broadcasting in the event that its franchise is not renewed.
According to Lagman, Cayetano's remark that the TV network can continue operations by securing a provisional authority from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) as long as the 18th Congress has not adjourned sine die is illusory.
"If the House of Representatives, which is an independent branch of government, kowtows to the repeated pronouncements of the President Rodrigo Duterte that he is against the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, with more reason that the NTC, an agency under the Executive Department headed by the President himself, would go against the wishes of President Duterte by issuing a provisional authority," Lagman said.
ABS-CBN is being given an illusory alternative remedy instead of being granted a justified renewal of its franchise, he pointed out.
Last Friday, Lagman insisted that the renewal of the the TV network's franchise is under the sole jurisdiction of the House of Representatives.
Meanwhile, Buhay party-list representative Joselito Atienza lambasted Speaker Cayetano for his purported inability to calendar the hearing for ABS-CBN's network franchise bills.
At a press forum in Quezon City on Saturday, Atienza said he is "very" frustrated with Cayetano for failing to recognize the significance of acting on the issue which is of national interest. —with a report from Flor Taguinod/LBG, GMA News
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/726102/lagman-hits-cayetano-s-excuse-for-foot-dragging-on-abs-cbn-franchise/story/
House to delay decision on broadcaster's franchise
(MENAFN - Gulf Times) Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano said, at the earliest, the House of Representatives could take up the renewal of ABS-CBN's franchise in May, which is more than a month after the franchise expires on March 30.
'When the time comes, but definitely before March 2022. Possibly in May, if we have enough time and we have cooler heads and with all the issues. Worst case, after SONA (in July), Cayetano told reporters after a mass wedding ceremony in Paranaque City yesterday.
The SONA is President Rodrigo Duterte's State of the Nation Address.
ABS-CBN's 25-year franchise expires on March 30.
Eleven bills, regarding its renewal, are pending at the House Committee on Legislative Franchises.
Congress will have a break on March 11 for the Holy Week and will resume in May.
While he considered the issue as important, Cayetano said the House was attending to more urgent matters such as the coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak.
He said the issue is not urgent since the giant media entity would still be allowed to operate until the end of the 18th Congress.
'Don't get me wrong. The franchise of ABS-CBN is important not just to the 11,000 employees. It is important to the whole country, to our democracy. But, it is not that urgent.
Why? Because it can still operate until 2022, the speaker added.
Cayetano said the point of having franchise hearings was to reassess the network if it merits a renewal.
He, however, assured that Congress would be fair in reviewing the ABS-CBN franchise.
'The only pressure is to do what is right. I am not pressured on what the president wants. I am not pressured with the media or the supporters of ABS-CBN.
I am pressured that history will judge us. It will be a defining moment, not only for the 18th Congress, but also for ABS-CBN, Cayetano said.
The speaker admitted that the network's franchise is an issue of press freedom, but that accountability must also be sought after.
He said the House would look at all allegations against the network, including the points raised by Solicitor General Jose Calida in the quo warranto petition he filed before the Supreme Court.
One of the personalities supporting the franchise's renewal is Quezon City Mayor Josefina Belmonte.
'By tradition, Quezon City is also known as a bastion of freedom, knowledge and diversity, and the presence of multiple media networks in QC embodies these values, she said in a statement.
ABS-CBN is one of the top taxpayers in Quezon City and had supported many of the city's significant programmes and projects, Belmonte said.
The city also entered into several partnerships with the late Gina Lopez, former Environment secretary, in various projects such as the cleaning of esteros.
ABS-CBN's Bantay Kalikasan is also the city's partner in protecting and preserving the La Mesa Ecopark.
Meanwhile, Sen. Christopher Lawrence 'Bong Go assured that ABS-CBN would be treated fairly if measures seeking to renew its franchise would be approved in the House and transmitted to the Senate.
'We will give a fair hearing once it reaches the Senate. Our concern here is the welfare of every Filipino, welfare of the employees, and rest assured that the interest of every Filipino is the priority consideration of whatever decision I will make, he said.
Because the bills have been filed, Senate President Vicente Sotto 3rd and Isabela First District Rep. Antonio Albano stated in interviews that the existing franchise is deemed extended until the end of the 18th Congress in March 2022, unless Congress decides earlier to deny it.
'There are several legal issues being tackled now. Let's wait for the legal opinion of the DoJ (Department of Justice) or our NTC (National Telecommunications Commission), Go said.
Calida filed the quo warranto petition before the Supreme Court to revoke the franchise of ABS-CBN allegedly because of, among others, allowing foreign ownership.
Last February 12, Senator Mary Grace Poe filed a Senate resolution directing the Committee on Public Services to investigate the compliance of the network to its franchise.
https://menafn.com/1099706733/House-to-delay-decision-on-broadcasters-franchise
'When the time comes, but definitely before March 2022. Possibly in May, if we have enough time and we have cooler heads and with all the issues. Worst case, after SONA (in July), Cayetano told reporters after a mass wedding ceremony in Paranaque City yesterday.
The SONA is President Rodrigo Duterte's State of the Nation Address.
ABS-CBN's 25-year franchise expires on March 30.
Eleven bills, regarding its renewal, are pending at the House Committee on Legislative Franchises.
Congress will have a break on March 11 for the Holy Week and will resume in May.
While he considered the issue as important, Cayetano said the House was attending to more urgent matters such as the coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak.
He said the issue is not urgent since the giant media entity would still be allowed to operate until the end of the 18th Congress.
'Don't get me wrong. The franchise of ABS-CBN is important not just to the 11,000 employees. It is important to the whole country, to our democracy. But, it is not that urgent.
Why? Because it can still operate until 2022, the speaker added.
Cayetano said the point of having franchise hearings was to reassess the network if it merits a renewal.
He, however, assured that Congress would be fair in reviewing the ABS-CBN franchise.
'The only pressure is to do what is right. I am not pressured on what the president wants. I am not pressured with the media or the supporters of ABS-CBN.
I am pressured that history will judge us. It will be a defining moment, not only for the 18th Congress, but also for ABS-CBN, Cayetano said.
The speaker admitted that the network's franchise is an issue of press freedom, but that accountability must also be sought after.
He said the House would look at all allegations against the network, including the points raised by Solicitor General Jose Calida in the quo warranto petition he filed before the Supreme Court.
One of the personalities supporting the franchise's renewal is Quezon City Mayor Josefina Belmonte.
'By tradition, Quezon City is also known as a bastion of freedom, knowledge and diversity, and the presence of multiple media networks in QC embodies these values, she said in a statement.
ABS-CBN is one of the top taxpayers in Quezon City and had supported many of the city's significant programmes and projects, Belmonte said.
The city also entered into several partnerships with the late Gina Lopez, former Environment secretary, in various projects such as the cleaning of esteros.
ABS-CBN's Bantay Kalikasan is also the city's partner in protecting and preserving the La Mesa Ecopark.
Meanwhile, Sen. Christopher Lawrence 'Bong Go assured that ABS-CBN would be treated fairly if measures seeking to renew its franchise would be approved in the House and transmitted to the Senate.
'We will give a fair hearing once it reaches the Senate. Our concern here is the welfare of every Filipino, welfare of the employees, and rest assured that the interest of every Filipino is the priority consideration of whatever decision I will make, he said.
Because the bills have been filed, Senate President Vicente Sotto 3rd and Isabela First District Rep. Antonio Albano stated in interviews that the existing franchise is deemed extended until the end of the 18th Congress in March 2022, unless Congress decides earlier to deny it.
'There are several legal issues being tackled now. Let's wait for the legal opinion of the DoJ (Department of Justice) or our NTC (National Telecommunications Commission), Go said.
Calida filed the quo warranto petition before the Supreme Court to revoke the franchise of ABS-CBN allegedly because of, among others, allowing foreign ownership.
Last February 12, Senator Mary Grace Poe filed a Senate resolution directing the Committee on Public Services to investigate the compliance of the network to its franchise.
https://menafn.com/1099706733/House-to-delay-decision-on-broadcasters-franchise
Cayetano: ABS-CBN can continue operating if…
Media giant ABS-CBN may continue broadcasting if the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) grants it a provisional authority to operate after its franchise expires on March 30, according to Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano.
The prospect that the broadcaster will still be able to continue its operations is the reason the members of the House of Representatives believe it was “not that urgent” to tackle the 10 bills to renew the network’s franchise, he said on Friday.
He suggested that the House franchise panel submit to the NTC a document supporting the provisional license for ABS-CBN.
“NTC listens,” Cayetano said. “So, if the committee has to come up with something official, I think there’s a consensus that while we’re discussing the issues, there’s no reason to shut it down.”
“Don’t get me wrong,” he added. “The franchise of ABS-CBN is extremely important not only because they have 11,000 employees, but also to our country and democracy. But it’s not that urgent. Why? Because they can operate until March 2022 anyway.”
No date has been set on when the franchise committee was to meet to prepare the document expressing support for the network’s provisional license, as suggested by Cayetano.
The House only has until March 11 to conduct business before it goes into a recess.
Du30 ire, Calida move
There was no immediate comment from the NTC and ABS-CBN at press time. President Duterte has repeatedly castigated ABS-CBN over perceived slights, such as running a negative advertisement against him during the 2016 presidential campaign and supposedly refusing to air his own paid ad.
He has said he would block the renewal of the network’s franchise and in late December, he told ABS-CBN’s owners to just sell it.
The controversy over the broadcaster’s future heightened this week after Solicitor General Jose Calida filed a quo warranto petition in the Supreme Court to revoke ABS-CBN’s license, accusing the network of violating the terms of its franchise and the constitutional restriction on foreign ownership of a Filipino media entity.
Several House lawmakers assailed Calida’s Feb. 10 petition, saying it encroached on Congress’ exclusive power to grant or withhold a franchise.
Cayetano, who has said he has his own gripes against ABS-CBN, said it would be better to discuss the franchise issue when emotions had calmed down.
“There has to be some way that we can soberly and very reasonably discuss these issues with emotions, but not with rhetoric,” he said.
Cayetano said the House panel might begin discussions on the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise not earlier than the middle of the year—well after it shall have lapsed.
“Possibly, in May, if we have enough time and we have cooler heads … Worst case, after Sona (State of the Nation Address)” in July, he told a news conference.
Cayetano said the franchises committee chaired by Palawan Rep. Franz Alvarez would table the bills for discussion only “when the time comes, but definitely before March 2022.”
Alvarez’ panel had not calendared for discussion any of the bills extending the franchise.
The Palawan representative headed the same panel in the 17th Congress and sidelined the measure as well.
QC mayor backs renewal
While Malacañang has distanced itself from Calida’s petition, journalists and rights groups said Mr. Duterte’s personal vendetta appears to fuel the move.
Former Commission on Human Rights chair Etta Rosales on Friday expressed alarm over the “audacity” of the Duterte administration to deny granting a franchise renewal to ABS-CBN.
“Perhaps, the President—after two and a half years—should think less of himself, and view the network’s mandate from the perspective of its citizens,” she said.
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, a former member of the House, on Friday said she supported the renewal of the network’s franchise.
“By tradition, Quezon City is also known as a bastion of freedom, knowledge, and diversity, and the presence of multiple media networks in QC embodies these values,” she said.
Belmonte said ABS-CBN was one of the city’s top taxpayers and employed thousands of city residents “whose families would suffer should its legislative franchise not be renewed.”
She said the media giant also supported many of the city’s programs and projects, including the its advocacy to educate the youth by building the Eugenio Lopez Sr. Senior High School for Media Arts and protecting children through the Bantay Bata 163 Children’s Village.
The city also partnered with the late Gina Lopez of ABS-CBN Foundation and Bantay Kalikasan in cleaning of its waterways and protecting La Mesa Ecopark, Belmonte said. —WITH A REPORT FROM MARIEJO S. RAMOS AND JHESSET O. ENANO INQ
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1229069/cayetano-abs-cbn-can-continue-operating-if
The prospect that the broadcaster will still be able to continue its operations is the reason the members of the House of Representatives believe it was “not that urgent” to tackle the 10 bills to renew the network’s franchise, he said on Friday.
He suggested that the House franchise panel submit to the NTC a document supporting the provisional license for ABS-CBN.
“NTC listens,” Cayetano said. “So, if the committee has to come up with something official, I think there’s a consensus that while we’re discussing the issues, there’s no reason to shut it down.”
“Don’t get me wrong,” he added. “The franchise of ABS-CBN is extremely important not only because they have 11,000 employees, but also to our country and democracy. But it’s not that urgent. Why? Because they can operate until March 2022 anyway.”
No date has been set on when the franchise committee was to meet to prepare the document expressing support for the network’s provisional license, as suggested by Cayetano.
The House only has until March 11 to conduct business before it goes into a recess.
Du30 ire, Calida move
There was no immediate comment from the NTC and ABS-CBN at press time. President Duterte has repeatedly castigated ABS-CBN over perceived slights, such as running a negative advertisement against him during the 2016 presidential campaign and supposedly refusing to air his own paid ad.
He has said he would block the renewal of the network’s franchise and in late December, he told ABS-CBN’s owners to just sell it.
The controversy over the broadcaster’s future heightened this week after Solicitor General Jose Calida filed a quo warranto petition in the Supreme Court to revoke ABS-CBN’s license, accusing the network of violating the terms of its franchise and the constitutional restriction on foreign ownership of a Filipino media entity.
Several House lawmakers assailed Calida’s Feb. 10 petition, saying it encroached on Congress’ exclusive power to grant or withhold a franchise.
Cayetano, who has said he has his own gripes against ABS-CBN, said it would be better to discuss the franchise issue when emotions had calmed down.
“There has to be some way that we can soberly and very reasonably discuss these issues with emotions, but not with rhetoric,” he said.
Cayetano said the House panel might begin discussions on the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise not earlier than the middle of the year—well after it shall have lapsed.
“Possibly, in May, if we have enough time and we have cooler heads … Worst case, after Sona (State of the Nation Address)” in July, he told a news conference.
Cayetano said the franchises committee chaired by Palawan Rep. Franz Alvarez would table the bills for discussion only “when the time comes, but definitely before March 2022.”
Alvarez’ panel had not calendared for discussion any of the bills extending the franchise.
The Palawan representative headed the same panel in the 17th Congress and sidelined the measure as well.
QC mayor backs renewal
While Malacañang has distanced itself from Calida’s petition, journalists and rights groups said Mr. Duterte’s personal vendetta appears to fuel the move.
Former Commission on Human Rights chair Etta Rosales on Friday expressed alarm over the “audacity” of the Duterte administration to deny granting a franchise renewal to ABS-CBN.
“Perhaps, the President—after two and a half years—should think less of himself, and view the network’s mandate from the perspective of its citizens,” she said.
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, a former member of the House, on Friday said she supported the renewal of the network’s franchise.
“By tradition, Quezon City is also known as a bastion of freedom, knowledge, and diversity, and the presence of multiple media networks in QC embodies these values,” she said.
Belmonte said ABS-CBN was one of the city’s top taxpayers and employed thousands of city residents “whose families would suffer should its legislative franchise not be renewed.”
She said the media giant also supported many of the city’s programs and projects, including the its advocacy to educate the youth by building the Eugenio Lopez Sr. Senior High School for Media Arts and protecting children through the Bantay Bata 163 Children’s Village.
The city also partnered with the late Gina Lopez of ABS-CBN Foundation and Bantay Kalikasan in cleaning of its waterways and protecting La Mesa Ecopark, Belmonte said. —WITH A REPORT FROM MARIEJO S. RAMOS AND JHESSET O. ENANO INQ
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1229069/cayetano-abs-cbn-can-continue-operating-if
Ilocos Sur named its most beautiful
New queens were crowned at the Saniata ti Ylocos Sur 2020 pageant night held on Feb. 2 at the Tamag Grounds. The pageant was a highlight of the annual Kannawidan Ylocos Festival that celebrates Ilocos Sur being a separate province and a treasure chest of traditions and culture.
Ilocos Sur Governor Ryan Luis Singson crowned Donnabelle Erno from the Municipality of Sta. Maria as the Saniata Ti Ylocos and Miss Millennial Ilocos Sur 2020. She brought home a cash prize of P100,000.
During the glitzy beauty competition, Erno also bagged Best in Swimwear and the Darling of the Press/ Media’s Choice award.
Miss San Vicente Glaizel Ragasa received P80,000 as Saniata Ti World 2020. She was also named Best in Talent, Ms. Safari Hotels and Villas, and Face of the Night.
Blezie Mae Garcia from Quirino was awarded Saniata Ti Tourism 2020 and Miss Photogenic and Christine Mary Pacleb from San Esteban was crowned Saniata Ti Environment 2020.
Other winners were: Laiza May Fernando from Bantay, first runner up and was also named Best Performer; and Elisha Faith Udarbe from Magsingal, Miss Kojie San and second runner up.
Special awards were also given out: Camille Tabaco won Texter’s Choice; Ysabella Cassandra Rafanan named Miss Congeniality, and Jezra Agsalog won Darling of the Crowd.
The pageant was hosted by KC Montero and Isabel Daza. Miko Raval, Maja Salvador, and Enchong Dee were among the performers.
https://www.manilastandard.net/mobile/article/317301
Ilocos Sur Governor Ryan Luis Singson crowned Donnabelle Erno from the Municipality of Sta. Maria as the Saniata Ti Ylocos and Miss Millennial Ilocos Sur 2020. She brought home a cash prize of P100,000.
During the glitzy beauty competition, Erno also bagged Best in Swimwear and the Darling of the Press/ Media’s Choice award.
Miss San Vicente Glaizel Ragasa received P80,000 as Saniata Ti World 2020. She was also named Best in Talent, Ms. Safari Hotels and Villas, and Face of the Night.
Blezie Mae Garcia from Quirino was awarded Saniata Ti Tourism 2020 and Miss Photogenic and Christine Mary Pacleb from San Esteban was crowned Saniata Ti Environment 2020.
Other winners were: Laiza May Fernando from Bantay, first runner up and was also named Best Performer; and Elisha Faith Udarbe from Magsingal, Miss Kojie San and second runner up.
Special awards were also given out: Camille Tabaco won Texter’s Choice; Ysabella Cassandra Rafanan named Miss Congeniality, and Jezra Agsalog won Darling of the Crowd.
The pageant was hosted by KC Montero and Isabel Daza. Miko Raval, Maja Salvador, and Enchong Dee were among the performers.
https://www.manilastandard.net/mobile/article/317301
ABS-CBN franchise can wait — Cayetano
WHILE the House leadership is aware of the clamor of many, Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano said they are not rushing the discussion on the renewal of ABS-CBN Corporation’s franchise.
In an interview after attending a mass wedding in Paranaque, Cayetano said he wanted the hearing done with cooler heads among lawmakers and stakeholders.
Cayetano also said they can let the existing ABS-CBN franchise expire on March 30 before it starts deliberating on the 11 pending bills seeking the franchise’s renewal.
“Hindi ganoon ka-urgent. Bakit? Kasi hanggang March 2022, pwedeng mag-operate. Definitely, before March 2022, possibly in May if we have cooler heads... worst case, after SONA (State of the Nation Address),” Cayetano said.
He noted that while the franchise is an important discussion, there are other pressing matters that Congress should prioritize especially that there are unavoidable circumstances coming like the Taal eruption, and 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19).
Cayetano admitted that discussions on the franchise renewal “will suck all the energy of the 18th Congress” as lawmakers would want their stand on the issue heard.
“Kung tayo mag-hearing ngayon, alam mo, sasabihin ko sa inyo kung ano mangyayari: it will suck all the energy of the 18th Congress. Halos lahat ng miyembro, mag-aattend. At pustahan tayo, lahat ng anti, pipila makapagsalita. Lahat ng pro, pipila para magsalita,” he added.
The House leader also said deliberations on the network’s franchise would be a “delicate balance.”
“How do you hold ABS accountable for some perceived violations of the franchise? On the other hand, how do you protect press freedom? And what is a just ruling vis-Ã -vis ‘yung mga (on the) allegations? Pero nandun pa lang tayo sa allegation,” Cayetano said.
However, he already instructed chairman of the legislative franchises Palawan Rep. Franz Alvarez to schedule the hearing.
Earlier this week, Solicitor General Jose Calida filed a quo warranto petition before the Supreme Court seeking to revoke the network’s license ahead of its expiration this March because of several violations.
Calida cited “highly abusive practices” of the network “benefiting a greedy few at the expense of millions of its loyal subscribers.”
https://journal.com.ph/news/provincial/abs-cbn-franchise-can-wait-cayetano
In an interview after attending a mass wedding in Paranaque, Cayetano said he wanted the hearing done with cooler heads among lawmakers and stakeholders.
Cayetano also said they can let the existing ABS-CBN franchise expire on March 30 before it starts deliberating on the 11 pending bills seeking the franchise’s renewal.
“Hindi ganoon ka-urgent. Bakit? Kasi hanggang March 2022, pwedeng mag-operate. Definitely, before March 2022, possibly in May if we have cooler heads... worst case, after SONA (State of the Nation Address),” Cayetano said.
He noted that while the franchise is an important discussion, there are other pressing matters that Congress should prioritize especially that there are unavoidable circumstances coming like the Taal eruption, and 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19).
Cayetano admitted that discussions on the franchise renewal “will suck all the energy of the 18th Congress” as lawmakers would want their stand on the issue heard.
“Kung tayo mag-hearing ngayon, alam mo, sasabihin ko sa inyo kung ano mangyayari: it will suck all the energy of the 18th Congress. Halos lahat ng miyembro, mag-aattend. At pustahan tayo, lahat ng anti, pipila makapagsalita. Lahat ng pro, pipila para magsalita,” he added.
The House leader also said deliberations on the network’s franchise would be a “delicate balance.”
“How do you hold ABS accountable for some perceived violations of the franchise? On the other hand, how do you protect press freedom? And what is a just ruling vis-Ã -vis ‘yung mga (on the) allegations? Pero nandun pa lang tayo sa allegation,” Cayetano said.
However, he already instructed chairman of the legislative franchises Palawan Rep. Franz Alvarez to schedule the hearing.
Earlier this week, Solicitor General Jose Calida filed a quo warranto petition before the Supreme Court seeking to revoke the network’s license ahead of its expiration this March because of several violations.
Calida cited “highly abusive practices” of the network “benefiting a greedy few at the expense of millions of its loyal subscribers.”
https://journal.com.ph/news/provincial/abs-cbn-franchise-can-wait-cayetano
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