Shares of ABS-CBN climb to the P21 level on Thursday, February 20, though still very far from the P60 level before the term of President Rodrigo Duterte began in 2016
Shares of embattled media giant ABS-CBN soared by over 20% on Thursday, February 20, as investors find hope that its franchise would be renewed.
ABS-CBN was the top gainer at the local bourse on Thursday, closing at P21.80 from P18.10 apiece, even surging to as high as P22 intraday. This is also an improvement from its 52-week low of P14.80.
The network gained over P3.1 billion in market capitalization.
However, current share prices are still very far from the P60 level before the term of President Rodrigo Duterte began on June 30, 2016.
Philstocks analyst Japhet Tantiangco attributed the climb to the Senate moving to tackle the network's franchise issues.
"We can attribute this to the remarks of Senator Bong Go who is urging the Lower House to discuss the media firm's franchise case. There's also the possibility of a franchise extension by the National Telecommunications Commission," Tantiangco said.
The Senate public services committee will tackle the franchise renewal of media giant ABS-CBN on Monday, February 24, ahead of hearings at the House of Representatives.
Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano said the House is likely to delay hearings on ABS-CBN's franchise until May or August, even if the media network's franchise is already expiring on March 30.
The Philippine Stock Exchange index gained over 0.2% to 7,413 on Thursday. There were 90 gainers and 84 decliners, while 54 companies remain unchanged.
https://www.rappler.com/business/252304-abs-cbn-shares-surge-february-20-2020
Thursday, February 20, 2020
Pahayag ni ABS-CBN President and CEO Carlo Katigbak, Pebrero 20, 2020
February 20, 2020 Statement
Carlo Katigbak
President & CEO
Mga kapamilya,
Isa po ako sa labing-isang libong empleyado ng ABS-CBN na nagpapasalamat sa pagkakataong makapaglingkod sa inyo.
Sa mga darating na araw, mabibigyan kami ng pagkakataong linawin ang mga isyu tungkol sa aming prangkisa. Wala po kaming nakikitang dahilan para hindi magtuloy ang paglilingkod ng ating ABS-CBN. Gayun pa man, kami ay handang sumunod sa anumang proseso na dapat pagdaanan ayon sa batas.
Sa nakaraang 65 years, naging tapat po kami sa aming misyon na maging In the Service of the Filipino. Sa lahat po ng aming pinaglilingkuran, isang karangalan po na kami'y naging bahagi ng inyong tahanan at ng inyong pamilya. Sana po ang aming mga programa ay nagbibigay ng impormasyon, saya, pag asa at inspirasyon sa inyo. Sana po nakatulong sa inyo ang mga serbisyo publiko ng ABS-CBN Foundation tulad ng Bantay Bata at Sagip Kapamilya.
Serbisyo po ang layunin ng ABS-CBN. Ngunit kami po ay hindi perpekto. Nagkakamali din po kami at handa po naming itama ang anumang pagkukulang. Kasama ito sa proseso ng pagiging isang mas matatag na kumpanya.
Sa aming mga mambabatas, nasa inyong kamay po ang kinabukasan ng ABS-CBN. Nagtitiwala po kami sa sinasabi ninyo na mabibigyan kami ng pagkakataong sagutin ang mga katanungan ng mga mamamayan. Dinarasal din namin na makita ninyo ang mga kabutihang naidulot ng ABS-CBN sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino.
Para sa mga kapwa ko empleyado sa ABS-CBN…mga Kapamilya, salamat sa inyong sipag at katapatan sa patuloy na pagbibigay serbisyo sa kapwa Pilipino. Alam ko po kung gaano kahirap magtrabaho habang kayo ay nagaalala sa inyong hanapbuhay at nangangamba sa kapakanan ng inyong mga pamilya. Asahan niyo po na gagawin namin lahat para matuloy ang serbisyo ng ABS-CBN.
Para sa napakadaming nagpahayag ng suporta sa ABS-CBN, maraming maraming salamat po. Ang mga pahayag ninyo ay nagbibigay sa amin ng tibay ng loob at lakas, lalong lalo na sa oras ng matinding pagsubok. Asahan niyo po na ipaglalaban namin ang pagkakataong ituloy ang serbisyo sa inyo.
Sa mga darating na araw, hinihingi po namin ang inyong panalangin na magtutuloy ang ating pagsasama. Sa ABS-CBN po, naniniwala kami na Family is Forever.
Maraming Salamat, Kapamilya.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/20/20/pahayag-ni-abs-cbn-president-and-ceo-carlo-katigbak-pebrero-20-2020
Carlo Katigbak
President & CEO
Mga kapamilya,
Isa po ako sa labing-isang libong empleyado ng ABS-CBN na nagpapasalamat sa pagkakataong makapaglingkod sa inyo.
Sa mga darating na araw, mabibigyan kami ng pagkakataong linawin ang mga isyu tungkol sa aming prangkisa. Wala po kaming nakikitang dahilan para hindi magtuloy ang paglilingkod ng ating ABS-CBN. Gayun pa man, kami ay handang sumunod sa anumang proseso na dapat pagdaanan ayon sa batas.
Sa nakaraang 65 years, naging tapat po kami sa aming misyon na maging In the Service of the Filipino. Sa lahat po ng aming pinaglilingkuran, isang karangalan po na kami'y naging bahagi ng inyong tahanan at ng inyong pamilya. Sana po ang aming mga programa ay nagbibigay ng impormasyon, saya, pag asa at inspirasyon sa inyo. Sana po nakatulong sa inyo ang mga serbisyo publiko ng ABS-CBN Foundation tulad ng Bantay Bata at Sagip Kapamilya.
Serbisyo po ang layunin ng ABS-CBN. Ngunit kami po ay hindi perpekto. Nagkakamali din po kami at handa po naming itama ang anumang pagkukulang. Kasama ito sa proseso ng pagiging isang mas matatag na kumpanya.
Sa aming mga mambabatas, nasa inyong kamay po ang kinabukasan ng ABS-CBN. Nagtitiwala po kami sa sinasabi ninyo na mabibigyan kami ng pagkakataong sagutin ang mga katanungan ng mga mamamayan. Dinarasal din namin na makita ninyo ang mga kabutihang naidulot ng ABS-CBN sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino.
Para sa mga kapwa ko empleyado sa ABS-CBN…mga Kapamilya, salamat sa inyong sipag at katapatan sa patuloy na pagbibigay serbisyo sa kapwa Pilipino. Alam ko po kung gaano kahirap magtrabaho habang kayo ay nagaalala sa inyong hanapbuhay at nangangamba sa kapakanan ng inyong mga pamilya. Asahan niyo po na gagawin namin lahat para matuloy ang serbisyo ng ABS-CBN.
Para sa napakadaming nagpahayag ng suporta sa ABS-CBN, maraming maraming salamat po. Ang mga pahayag ninyo ay nagbibigay sa amin ng tibay ng loob at lakas, lalong lalo na sa oras ng matinding pagsubok. Asahan niyo po na ipaglalaban namin ang pagkakataong ituloy ang serbisyo sa inyo.
Sa mga darating na araw, hinihingi po namin ang inyong panalangin na magtutuloy ang ating pagsasama. Sa ABS-CBN po, naniniwala kami na Family is Forever.
Maraming Salamat, Kapamilya.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/20/20/pahayag-ni-abs-cbn-president-and-ceo-carlo-katigbak-pebrero-20-2020
Palace: Letting ABS-CBN operate with expired franchise could be questioned in court
The practice of allowing a network to operate even after its franchise has expired is "questionable," Malacañang said Thursday, as it called on Congress to do its job in relation to the bills seeking the renewal of the franchise of television network ABS-CBN.
Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said problems may arise if somebody questions the practice before the court.
"According to them (lawmakers), there has been a practice of extending the franchise. But the legality of that would be questionable. If somebody questions that before the Supreme Court, there would be a problem," Panelo said at a press briefing.
"But what is important is, the president said, they should do something about it. Meaning to say, do their job. If there is a pending application before Congress, then members of Congress should deliberate on it and decide whether or not to grant or to deny the extension," he added.
The franchise of ABS-CBN is set to expire on March 30. The Lopez-led network is facing an uncertain fate as the House of Representatives, which is dominated by allies of President Duterte, has yet to hold a hearing on bills renewing its franchise.
Duterte, who has accused ABS-CBN of biased reporting and swindling, has vowed to see to it that the network would be "out." Officials, however, have claimed that the president does not interfere in the job of Congress and that his remark was just an expression of his "personal displeasure" with the network.
Earlier this month, Senate President Vicente Sotto III said ABS-CBN may still operate after March 30 as long as there are pending bills seeking to renew its franchise. Sotto has said the network's franchise would be "deemed extended" and would only be terminated if the 18th Congress adjourns in 2022 without passing a franchise renewal bill.
Sotto's view was not shared by some of his colleagues, including Senate Minority Franklin Drilon, who believes that ABS-CBN cannot be allowed to operate after the expiration of its franchise.
Panelo claimed Duterte has nothing to do with the inaction on the ABS-CBN franchise renewal bill.
"Because if you noticed commentaries tend to blame him for the impasse and he said, 'I don’t have anything to do with it. They should know my character by this time. I do not interfere with their work. Any utterance that I made before the public in relation to ABS-CBN is in connection with what I experienced with them during the elections. They cannot deny me of that,'" Panelo said.
"That issue is in the hands of Congress and he has nothing to do with it; do their work!"
Next move up to SolGen
Asked whether the government would question moves to allow ABS-CBN to operate after March 30, Panelo said it would be up to Solicitor General Jose Calida to decide on the matter.
"If he (Solicitor General) feels that there is any violation on any law, then he should do his job," Panelo said.
"I didn’t say there seems to be a violation. There is doubt of whether that is legal or not. Now, whether or not SolGen will initiate an action, you will have to ask him. That is his territory," he added.
The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) has asked the Supreme Court to revoke the legislative franchises of ABS-CBN Corp. and its subsidiary ABS-CBN Convergence, Inc. saying the network was engaged in "highly abusive practices."
OSG has accused ABS-CBN of going beyond the scope of its franchise by broadcasting for a fee and of violating the constitution by allowing foreign investors to take part in the ownership of a Philippine media entity.
ABS-CBN has denied violating the law, saying all its broadcast offerings have received the necessary government and regulatory approvals and are not prohibited by its franchise.
The network has also claimed that ABS-CBN Holdings’ Philippine Deposit Receipts were evaluated and approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Philippine Stock Exchange prior to its public offering.
Journalists groups and human rights advocates have expressed support for ABS-CBN and have criticized the Duterte administration for allegedly trying to silence media outlets critical of the government.
https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2020/02/20/1994769/palace-letting-abs-cbn-operate-expired-franchise-could-be-questioned-court
Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said problems may arise if somebody questions the practice before the court.
"According to them (lawmakers), there has been a practice of extending the franchise. But the legality of that would be questionable. If somebody questions that before the Supreme Court, there would be a problem," Panelo said at a press briefing.
"But what is important is, the president said, they should do something about it. Meaning to say, do their job. If there is a pending application before Congress, then members of Congress should deliberate on it and decide whether or not to grant or to deny the extension," he added.
The franchise of ABS-CBN is set to expire on March 30. The Lopez-led network is facing an uncertain fate as the House of Representatives, which is dominated by allies of President Duterte, has yet to hold a hearing on bills renewing its franchise.
Duterte, who has accused ABS-CBN of biased reporting and swindling, has vowed to see to it that the network would be "out." Officials, however, have claimed that the president does not interfere in the job of Congress and that his remark was just an expression of his "personal displeasure" with the network.
Earlier this month, Senate President Vicente Sotto III said ABS-CBN may still operate after March 30 as long as there are pending bills seeking to renew its franchise. Sotto has said the network's franchise would be "deemed extended" and would only be terminated if the 18th Congress adjourns in 2022 without passing a franchise renewal bill.
Sotto's view was not shared by some of his colleagues, including Senate Minority Franklin Drilon, who believes that ABS-CBN cannot be allowed to operate after the expiration of its franchise.
Panelo claimed Duterte has nothing to do with the inaction on the ABS-CBN franchise renewal bill.
"Because if you noticed commentaries tend to blame him for the impasse and he said, 'I don’t have anything to do with it. They should know my character by this time. I do not interfere with their work. Any utterance that I made before the public in relation to ABS-CBN is in connection with what I experienced with them during the elections. They cannot deny me of that,'" Panelo said.
"That issue is in the hands of Congress and he has nothing to do with it; do their work!"
Next move up to SolGen
Asked whether the government would question moves to allow ABS-CBN to operate after March 30, Panelo said it would be up to Solicitor General Jose Calida to decide on the matter.
"If he (Solicitor General) feels that there is any violation on any law, then he should do his job," Panelo said.
"I didn’t say there seems to be a violation. There is doubt of whether that is legal or not. Now, whether or not SolGen will initiate an action, you will have to ask him. That is his territory," he added.
The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) has asked the Supreme Court to revoke the legislative franchises of ABS-CBN Corp. and its subsidiary ABS-CBN Convergence, Inc. saying the network was engaged in "highly abusive practices."
OSG has accused ABS-CBN of going beyond the scope of its franchise by broadcasting for a fee and of violating the constitution by allowing foreign investors to take part in the ownership of a Philippine media entity.
ABS-CBN has denied violating the law, saying all its broadcast offerings have received the necessary government and regulatory approvals and are not prohibited by its franchise.
The network has also claimed that ABS-CBN Holdings’ Philippine Deposit Receipts were evaluated and approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Philippine Stock Exchange prior to its public offering.
Journalists groups and human rights advocates have expressed support for ABS-CBN and have criticized the Duterte administration for allegedly trying to silence media outlets critical of the government.
https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2020/02/20/1994769/palace-letting-abs-cbn-operate-expired-franchise-could-be-questioned-court
PRRD asks Congress to act on ABS-CBN franchise
President Rodrigo Duterte has urged Congress to “do something” about local media giant ABS-CBN’s franchise which is set to expire on March 30, Malacañang said on Thursday.
Speaking to Palace reporters, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte believed lawmakers should act on the pending bills seeking the renewal of ABS-CBN.
“What is important is the President said: ‘They should do something about it.’ Meaning to say, (they should) do their job. If there is a pending application before Congress, then members of Congress should deliberate on it and decide whether or not to grant or to deny the extension,” he said.
Panelo issued the statement after critics blamed Duterte for the supposed impasse in the deliberations of ABS-CBN’s franchise bills pending before the House of Representatives.
Duterte repeatedly took a jab at ABS-CBN for its supposed failure to air his campaign advertisements during the 2016 presidential race and its supposed biased reporting against his administration.
Panelo insisted that legislators, not Duterte, have the jurisdiction over the proposed measures that seek the extension of ABS-CBN’s congressional franchise for another 25 years.
“What is the job of Congress? The job of Congress is to pass laws. The job of Congress is to investigate in aid of legislation any matter that affects the national interest and their welfare. That’s their job. One of their jobs is precisely to deliberate on whether or not to grant franchises or renew franchises,” Panelo said.
Panelo, who also serves as the Chief Presidential Legal Counsel, said ABS-CBN’s franchise is deemed expired, if Congress fails to approve before March 30 a measure that allows the local media giant to proceed with its broadcast operations.
His statement negated the claims of some lawmakers that ABS-CBN can still operate beyond March 30, pending the approval of the franchise bills.
Panelo said ABS-CBN's operations after March 30 could be questioned before the court, in case the extension of its franchise does not get the nod of Congress.
"If the expiration period comes, then it has expired. According to them, there has been a practice of extending the franchise, but the legality of that would be questioned. Somebody questioned that before the Supreme Court. May problema sila diyan (That would be a problem)," he said…
Around 11 bills seeking the renewal of ABS-CBN’s 25-year franchise have been filed before the House of Representatives.
Congressmen, however, have yet to act on the franchise bills.
Panelo said Duterte’s grievances against ABS-CBN have no “chilling effect” on lawmakers.
He said several lawmakers would have not expressed support to the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, had Duterte’s rants influenced Congress.
“It means there is no effect at all. They know the President was making utterances in reference to his being a victim of fraud by the entity,” he said.
Panelo also emphasized that the Palace need not persuade Congress to do its job with regard to the fate of ABS-CBN.
“I don’t know what kind of bills will they tackle. But what we are saying is you know your duties. You don’t have to be prodded on to do your duties,” he said.
Last week, Solicitor General Jose Calida asked the Supreme Court (SC) to invalidate ABS-CBN’s franchise due to its supposed violation of the 1987 Constitution when it allowed foreign ownership of the media entity.
Under Section 11(1), Article 16 of the 1987 Constitution, only Filipino citizens or Philippine organizations are allowed to take part in the ownership and management of Philippine mass media.
On Tuesday, Calida also requested the SC to bar parties from issuing statements on the pending quo warranto plea against ABS-CBN’s congressional franchise.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1094396
Speaking to Palace reporters, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte believed lawmakers should act on the pending bills seeking the renewal of ABS-CBN.
“What is important is the President said: ‘They should do something about it.’ Meaning to say, (they should) do their job. If there is a pending application before Congress, then members of Congress should deliberate on it and decide whether or not to grant or to deny the extension,” he said.
Panelo issued the statement after critics blamed Duterte for the supposed impasse in the deliberations of ABS-CBN’s franchise bills pending before the House of Representatives.
Duterte repeatedly took a jab at ABS-CBN for its supposed failure to air his campaign advertisements during the 2016 presidential race and its supposed biased reporting against his administration.
Panelo insisted that legislators, not Duterte, have the jurisdiction over the proposed measures that seek the extension of ABS-CBN’s congressional franchise for another 25 years.
“What is the job of Congress? The job of Congress is to pass laws. The job of Congress is to investigate in aid of legislation any matter that affects the national interest and their welfare. That’s their job. One of their jobs is precisely to deliberate on whether or not to grant franchises or renew franchises,” Panelo said.
Panelo, who also serves as the Chief Presidential Legal Counsel, said ABS-CBN’s franchise is deemed expired, if Congress fails to approve before March 30 a measure that allows the local media giant to proceed with its broadcast operations.
His statement negated the claims of some lawmakers that ABS-CBN can still operate beyond March 30, pending the approval of the franchise bills.
Panelo said ABS-CBN's operations after March 30 could be questioned before the court, in case the extension of its franchise does not get the nod of Congress.
"If the expiration period comes, then it has expired. According to them, there has been a practice of extending the franchise, but the legality of that would be questioned. Somebody questioned that before the Supreme Court. May problema sila diyan (That would be a problem)," he said…
Around 11 bills seeking the renewal of ABS-CBN’s 25-year franchise have been filed before the House of Representatives.
Congressmen, however, have yet to act on the franchise bills.
Panelo said Duterte’s grievances against ABS-CBN have no “chilling effect” on lawmakers.
He said several lawmakers would have not expressed support to the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, had Duterte’s rants influenced Congress.
“It means there is no effect at all. They know the President was making utterances in reference to his being a victim of fraud by the entity,” he said.
Panelo also emphasized that the Palace need not persuade Congress to do its job with regard to the fate of ABS-CBN.
“I don’t know what kind of bills will they tackle. But what we are saying is you know your duties. You don’t have to be prodded on to do your duties,” he said.
Last week, Solicitor General Jose Calida asked the Supreme Court (SC) to invalidate ABS-CBN’s franchise due to its supposed violation of the 1987 Constitution when it allowed foreign ownership of the media entity.
Under Section 11(1), Article 16 of the 1987 Constitution, only Filipino citizens or Philippine organizations are allowed to take part in the ownership and management of Philippine mass media.
On Tuesday, Calida also requested the SC to bar parties from issuing statements on the pending quo warranto plea against ABS-CBN’s congressional franchise.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1094396
NTC seeks DOJ opinion on ABS-CBN’s operation after franchise expires
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has already sought the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) legal opinion on whether ABS-CBN can continue to operate even after its franchise expires.
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said they have received a letter from the NTC last Tuesday asking for advice.
“We got it (NTC letter) last Tuesday afternoon and we hope to reply by next week,” Guevarra said.
“The main question (asked by the NTC) is whether or not ABS-CBN may continue operating after the lapse of the franchise period, pending action by the Congress on the franchise renewal bills,” he added.
ABS-CBN’s franchise will expire at the end of March.
But Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano said the best time to tackle the renewal of the television station’s franchise was either May or after President Rodrigo Duterte’s State of the Nation Address (SONA).
DOJ Undersecretary Markk Perete also said the NTC’s request is currently being evaluated by their legal staff.
“The request is being evaluated. The legal staff evaluates requests for opinion,” said Perete.
It was Senator Christopher “Bong” Go who disclosed last Wednesday that the NTC sought the help of the DOJ.
Aside from waiting for Congress to act on the renewal of its franchise, the network is also facing a legal battle at the Supreme Court (SC). Named respondents were ABS-CBN Corporation and ABS-CBN Convergence.
(UPDATE) ABS-CBN's flagship VHF station DWWX-TV, channel 2 would secure a permit to operate by the NTC, while for the sign-on and sign-off sequences: announcement (without voice-over) in original form, new version of station message voiced by Peter Musngi with permit number, plus new Professional Electronics and Communications Engineers, Electronics and Communications Engineers and Technicians (PECE’s, ECE’s and ECT’s), First Class Radio-Telephone Operators and Second-Class Radio Telegraph Operator with license number and list of stations nationwide, followed by the Philippine National Anthem 1998 Centennial Version during the Presidency of Joseph Estrada, also known as the Estrada Administration (full, digitally remastered and restored version in 1080p HD widescreen and 4K UHD with end tagline with voiceover saying: “Ang watawat at pambansang awit ay sagisag ng ating pagka-Pilipino. Igalang natin at ipagpitagan ang mga ito” plus Philippine Centennial Logo and special thanks to) (replacing the 2013 Version produced by ABS-CBN) then a logo bumper (2014 version) and message saying “Ladies and gentlemen, in a few seconds, we will be on simultaneous satellite broadcast. Please stand by”, then a short patriotic message, teaser and station ID on sign-on.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1231499/ntc-seeks-doj-opinion-on-abs-cbns-operation-after-franchise-expires
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said they have received a letter from the NTC last Tuesday asking for advice.
“We got it (NTC letter) last Tuesday afternoon and we hope to reply by next week,” Guevarra said.
“The main question (asked by the NTC) is whether or not ABS-CBN may continue operating after the lapse of the franchise period, pending action by the Congress on the franchise renewal bills,” he added.
ABS-CBN’s franchise will expire at the end of March.
But Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano said the best time to tackle the renewal of the television station’s franchise was either May or after President Rodrigo Duterte’s State of the Nation Address (SONA).
DOJ Undersecretary Markk Perete also said the NTC’s request is currently being evaluated by their legal staff.
“The request is being evaluated. The legal staff evaluates requests for opinion,” said Perete.
It was Senator Christopher “Bong” Go who disclosed last Wednesday that the NTC sought the help of the DOJ.
Aside from waiting for Congress to act on the renewal of its franchise, the network is also facing a legal battle at the Supreme Court (SC). Named respondents were ABS-CBN Corporation and ABS-CBN Convergence.
(UPDATE) ABS-CBN's flagship VHF station DWWX-TV, channel 2 would secure a permit to operate by the NTC, while for the sign-on and sign-off sequences: announcement (without voice-over) in original form, new version of station message voiced by Peter Musngi with permit number, plus new Professional Electronics and Communications Engineers, Electronics and Communications Engineers and Technicians (PECE’s, ECE’s and ECT’s), First Class Radio-Telephone Operators and Second-Class Radio Telegraph Operator with license number and list of stations nationwide, followed by the Philippine National Anthem 1998 Centennial Version during the Presidency of Joseph Estrada, also known as the Estrada Administration (full, digitally remastered and restored version in 1080p HD widescreen and 4K UHD with end tagline with voiceover saying: “Ang watawat at pambansang awit ay sagisag ng ating pagka-Pilipino. Igalang natin at ipagpitagan ang mga ito” plus Philippine Centennial Logo and special thanks to) (replacing the 2013 Version produced by ABS-CBN) then a logo bumper (2014 version) and message saying “Ladies and gentlemen, in a few seconds, we will be on simultaneous satellite broadcast. Please stand by”, then a short patriotic message, teaser and station ID on sign-on.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1231499/ntc-seeks-doj-opinion-on-abs-cbns-operation-after-franchise-expires
'Do your job,’ Palace tells Congress on ABS-CBN franchise renewal
Members of Congress should “do their job” in relation to pending bills for the renewal of broadcast network ABS-CBN’s franchise, Malacañang said Thursday.
It is the responsibility of Congress to deliberate on whether or not to grant or renew franchises, Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said as he again distanced President Rodrigo Duterte from the issue surrounding ABS-CBN's franchise.
“As far as he (Duterte) is concerned, that issue is in the hands of Congress and he has nothing to do with it. Do their work,” Panelo told reporters in Malacañang.
Duterte also has this message to lawmakers, Panelo said: “You know your duties, you do not have to be prodded on to do your duties.”
Duterte has repeatedly said he would oppose ABS-CBN's franchise renewal, complaining of the network's supposed failure to air a paid campaign ad before the 2016 presidential elections.
Analysts have said that Duterte’s threats influenced lawmakers, who have yet to act on pending bills seeking a renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise set to expire on March 30.
Still, Panelo said the President does not wish the network to shut down.
Despite this, the government’s top lawyer still sought to invalidate the network’s license to operate before the Supreme Court over alleged “abuses” the company committed in relation to its franchise.
ABS-CBN, however, denied the allegations, saying it “did not violate the law.”
Last week, House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano questioned the urgency of holding congressional hearings on ABS-CBN’s broadcast franchise as he argued that doing so "will suck all the energy of the 18th Congress."
"Hindi [ito] ganoon ka-urgent. Bakit? Kasi hanggang March 2022, pwedeng mag-operate," he added.
(This is not that urgent. Why? Because ABS-CBN can operate until March 2022.)
Senate President Vicente Sotto III and House franchise committee vice chair Isabela 1st District Rep. Antonio Albano also said the broadcast giant can operate until December 31, 2022 as long as there is a pending bill for its license renewal.
The network secured a 25-year franchise under Republic Act 7966, which was enacted on March 30, 1995.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/20/20/do-your-job-palace-tells-congress-on-abs-cbn-franchise-renewal
It is the responsibility of Congress to deliberate on whether or not to grant or renew franchises, Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said as he again distanced President Rodrigo Duterte from the issue surrounding ABS-CBN's franchise.
“As far as he (Duterte) is concerned, that issue is in the hands of Congress and he has nothing to do with it. Do their work,” Panelo told reporters in Malacañang.
Duterte also has this message to lawmakers, Panelo said: “You know your duties, you do not have to be prodded on to do your duties.”
Duterte has repeatedly said he would oppose ABS-CBN's franchise renewal, complaining of the network's supposed failure to air a paid campaign ad before the 2016 presidential elections.
Analysts have said that Duterte’s threats influenced lawmakers, who have yet to act on pending bills seeking a renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise set to expire on March 30.
Still, Panelo said the President does not wish the network to shut down.
Despite this, the government’s top lawyer still sought to invalidate the network’s license to operate before the Supreme Court over alleged “abuses” the company committed in relation to its franchise.
ABS-CBN, however, denied the allegations, saying it “did not violate the law.”
Last week, House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano questioned the urgency of holding congressional hearings on ABS-CBN’s broadcast franchise as he argued that doing so "will suck all the energy of the 18th Congress."
"Hindi [ito] ganoon ka-urgent. Bakit? Kasi hanggang March 2022, pwedeng mag-operate," he added.
(This is not that urgent. Why? Because ABS-CBN can operate until March 2022.)
Senate President Vicente Sotto III and House franchise committee vice chair Isabela 1st District Rep. Antonio Albano also said the broadcast giant can operate until December 31, 2022 as long as there is a pending bill for its license renewal.
The network secured a 25-year franchise under Republic Act 7966, which was enacted on March 30, 1995.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/20/20/do-your-job-palace-tells-congress-on-abs-cbn-franchise-renewal
Justice dept's opinion on ABS-CBN franchise extension out next week
Justice Secretary Menardo Gueverra said Thursday his agency will release next week an opinion on whether regulators should extend the franchise of ABS-CBN Corp. if lawmakers fail to pass a law for it before the expiration of the company's current franchise.
The justice department is "studying" the National Telecommunications Commission's request for a legal opinion on the matter, Guevarra said.
"We got the request last Tuesday... We'll reply by next week," he told ABS-CBN in a text message.
The NTC in several instances had issued provisional licenses to operate for networks whose franchises were still being heard in Congress, Sen. Christopher "Bong" Go, a longtime aide of President Rodrigo Duterte, said earlier.
Duterte has repeatedly threatened to deny ABS-CBN a new franchise after the expiry of its current broadcast license on March 30, accusing the company of failing to air his campaign ads for the 2016 elections.
Last week, Solicitor General Jose Calida initiated a move to invalidate the current franchise of ABS-CBN by filing a quo warranto petition at the Supreme Court over alleged violations by the network in the terms of its franchise and of the foreign ownership regulation.
ABS-CBN said it did not violate any law in its 65 years of service. Report from Johnson Manabat, ABS-CBN News
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/20/20/justice-depts-opinion-on-abs-cbn-franchise-extension-out-next-week
The justice department is "studying" the National Telecommunications Commission's request for a legal opinion on the matter, Guevarra said.
"We got the request last Tuesday... We'll reply by next week," he told ABS-CBN in a text message.
The NTC in several instances had issued provisional licenses to operate for networks whose franchises were still being heard in Congress, Sen. Christopher "Bong" Go, a longtime aide of President Rodrigo Duterte, said earlier.
Duterte has repeatedly threatened to deny ABS-CBN a new franchise after the expiry of its current broadcast license on March 30, accusing the company of failing to air his campaign ads for the 2016 elections.
Last week, Solicitor General Jose Calida initiated a move to invalidate the current franchise of ABS-CBN by filing a quo warranto petition at the Supreme Court over alleged violations by the network in the terms of its franchise and of the foreign ownership regulation.
ABS-CBN said it did not violate any law in its 65 years of service. Report from Johnson Manabat, ABS-CBN News
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/20/20/justice-depts-opinion-on-abs-cbn-franchise-extension-out-next-week
NTC seeks DOJ opinion on ABS-CBN franchise
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has sought the Department of Justice's (DOJ) advice on whether or not ABS-CBN can continue operating if its franchise expires before Congress could act on bills for its renewal.
The DOJ received the NTC's request for a legal opinion last Tuesday afternoon and hopes to reply by next week, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said Thursday.
"The main question is whether or not ABS-CBN may continue operating after the lapse of the franchise period, pending action by the Congress on the franchise renewal bills," he said in a message to reporters.
Justice Undersecretary Markk Perete said the department's legal staff are evaluating the NTC's request.
The broadcast network's legislative franchise will expire on March 30.
Calling the matter "not that urgent," Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano said the House of Representatives would discuss it "possibly in May if we have cooler heads."
He said the company may operate until 2022 even if its license lapses next month.
The broadcast network has around 11,000 employees.
Meanwhile, Solicitor General Jose Calida has asked the Supreme Court (SC) to forfeit ABS-CBN's franchise over what he called the company's "highly abusive practices," such as operating a pay-per-view channel on free-to-air signals and issuing Philippine Depositary Receipts to foreigners.
The SC has ordered ABS-CBN to comment on the petition for quo warranto, the same action Calida initiated against then-chief justice Maria Lourdes Sereno. She was ousted in 2018 in a manner that critics of the landmark ruling called unconstitutional.
Calida has also asked the SC to issue a gag order on all the parties in the quo warranto case, alleging ABS-CBN “engaged in propaganda" in its reports and "commentaries" following the filing of the petition.
The SC has also asked ABS-CBN to comment on the motion for a gag order. — BM, GMA News
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/726677/ntc-seeks-doj-opinion-on-abs-cbn-franchise/story/
The DOJ received the NTC's request for a legal opinion last Tuesday afternoon and hopes to reply by next week, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said Thursday.
"The main question is whether or not ABS-CBN may continue operating after the lapse of the franchise period, pending action by the Congress on the franchise renewal bills," he said in a message to reporters.
Justice Undersecretary Markk Perete said the department's legal staff are evaluating the NTC's request.
The broadcast network's legislative franchise will expire on March 30.
Calling the matter "not that urgent," Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano said the House of Representatives would discuss it "possibly in May if we have cooler heads."
He said the company may operate until 2022 even if its license lapses next month.
The broadcast network has around 11,000 employees.
Meanwhile, Solicitor General Jose Calida has asked the Supreme Court (SC) to forfeit ABS-CBN's franchise over what he called the company's "highly abusive practices," such as operating a pay-per-view channel on free-to-air signals and issuing Philippine Depositary Receipts to foreigners.
The SC has ordered ABS-CBN to comment on the petition for quo warranto, the same action Calida initiated against then-chief justice Maria Lourdes Sereno. She was ousted in 2018 in a manner that critics of the landmark ruling called unconstitutional.
Calida has also asked the SC to issue a gag order on all the parties in the quo warranto case, alleging ABS-CBN “engaged in propaganda" in its reports and "commentaries" following the filing of the petition.
The SC has also asked ABS-CBN to comment on the motion for a gag order. — BM, GMA News
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/726677/ntc-seeks-doj-opinion-on-abs-cbn-franchise/story/
Carlo Aquino can’t imagine life without ABS-CBN
As one of ABS-CBN’s homegrown artists, Carlo Aquino is hoping things would go in favor of the network concerning its franchise renewal.
Speaking to ABS-CBN News on Wednesday, Aquino said he couldn’t imagine what it would be like if Congress would not allow the broadcast giant to operate.
“Hindi ko ma-imagine na walang ABS-CBN. Ito na 'yung kinalakihan ko. Dito talaga ako [tumanda]. Grabe, nagsimula ako, 9 years old. Ngayon I am 34. Dito ako natuto umarte, dito ako natuto kumanta. Sila ang nag-hone ng skills ko. 'Yun ang gagawin nila sa mga susunod na generations,” he said.
According to Aquino, he is urging his supporters to voice out what ABS-CBN means to them.
“Siyempre sila ang makakatulong sa atin, 'yung mga naniniwala na ang laki ng naitulong ng ABS-CBN sa kanila. Siyempre 'yung mga OFW natin, 'yung mga TFC subscribers,” he said.
Nonetheless, Aquino is certain that no matter what happens, ABS-CBN will remain in the service of the Filipino.
“Kasi para sa akin, with or without a franchise, ABS-CBN will continue to serve the Filipino. 'Yun na ang ginagawa nila for over 60 years. Pero naniniwala pa rin ako at pinagdadasal ko na hindi mangyayari [na mawalan ng franchise],” he said.
Meanwhile, Aquino feels fortunate to still enjoy the network’s trust.
Along with other artists, Aquino renewed his contract with ABS-CBN, which will cover two more years.
“Hindi naman nila binibigay 'yung ganyang contract basta basta. Sobrang 'yung thankfulness ko, talagang over the top. Paghuhusayan ko pa,” he said.
Aquino, who is currently seen in the primetime series “A Soldier’s Heart,” is expected to do three movies in the next two years.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/02/20/20/carlo-aquino-cant-imagine-life-without-abs-cbn
Speaking to ABS-CBN News on Wednesday, Aquino said he couldn’t imagine what it would be like if Congress would not allow the broadcast giant to operate.
“Hindi ko ma-imagine na walang ABS-CBN. Ito na 'yung kinalakihan ko. Dito talaga ako [tumanda]. Grabe, nagsimula ako, 9 years old. Ngayon I am 34. Dito ako natuto umarte, dito ako natuto kumanta. Sila ang nag-hone ng skills ko. 'Yun ang gagawin nila sa mga susunod na generations,” he said.
According to Aquino, he is urging his supporters to voice out what ABS-CBN means to them.
“Siyempre sila ang makakatulong sa atin, 'yung mga naniniwala na ang laki ng naitulong ng ABS-CBN sa kanila. Siyempre 'yung mga OFW natin, 'yung mga TFC subscribers,” he said.
Nonetheless, Aquino is certain that no matter what happens, ABS-CBN will remain in the service of the Filipino.
“Kasi para sa akin, with or without a franchise, ABS-CBN will continue to serve the Filipino. 'Yun na ang ginagawa nila for over 60 years. Pero naniniwala pa rin ako at pinagdadasal ko na hindi mangyayari [na mawalan ng franchise],” he said.
Meanwhile, Aquino feels fortunate to still enjoy the network’s trust.
Along with other artists, Aquino renewed his contract with ABS-CBN, which will cover two more years.
“Hindi naman nila binibigay 'yung ganyang contract basta basta. Sobrang 'yung thankfulness ko, talagang over the top. Paghuhusayan ko pa,” he said.
Aquino, who is currently seen in the primetime series “A Soldier’s Heart,” is expected to do three movies in the next two years.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/02/20/20/carlo-aquino-cant-imagine-life-without-abs-cbn
ABS-CBN needs a law to extend its franchise—Palace
The Palace on Wednesday said lawmakers should pass a law extending the validity of ABS-CBN’s franchise, which expires on March 30, if they are really inclined to renew it.
Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said this would enable the broadcast giant to continue operating until its new franchise is granted.
Earlier, Rep. Antonio Albano, vice chairman of the House committee on legislative franchises, said that in practice, ABS-CBN may be allowed to operate while Congress debates bills to extend its franchise.
But Panelo said a simpler way was to simply pass a new law to extend its validity.
Ako Bicol Rep. Alfredo Garbin previously said that the franchise of GMA Network, another broadcast company, expired on March 20, 2017, but it continued to operate with its authority renewed through a law signed by President Rodrigo Duterte on April 21, 2017.
Garbin also said the franchise of the 29 radio stations of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines expired in 2017 but they continued to operate even if the franchise was only renewed by the Congress in 2019.
Under Republic Act 3846, radio and television stations are required to seek a franchise from Congress.
ABS-CBN’s current franchise was approved through Republic Act 7966 on March 30, 1995.
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go on Wednesday said House members should act immediately on bills seeking to renew ABS-CBN’s franchise.
He said the lawmakers should vote according to their conscience and assured the public that President Duterte would not pressure them to vote one way or the other.
Go, a constant companion of the President, said Duterte was not being vindictive when he publicly declared that he would block the renewal of the network’s franchise.
He said Duterte merely expressed displeasure over ABS-CBN’s failure to air his political advertisement when he was running for president in 2016.
Go would not say, however, if he would support an extension to ABS-CBN’s franchise.
On the other hand, Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said he is in favor of the extension, saying none of the complaints against the network were “fatally defective.”
“I’ll put it this way. Here in the Senate, I think all of us got hit by ABS-CBN. Nobody here… was spared, but I don’t think that’s fatally defective on their franchise, or for any other media network. That’s your job. You’re the fourth estate,” Recto said.
The Senate public services committee chaired by Senator Grace Poe is set to hear the ABS-CBN’s franchise extension on Feb. 24.
In related developments:
• The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) on Tuesday said ABS-CBN has no outstanding tax liabilities, contrary to allegations being circulated online.
• A militant labor organization on Wednesday said shutting down the operations of ABS-CBN will not solve the network’s labor issues and will only place its 11,000 workers’ jobs in peril. Defend Jobs Philippines said it would be moot and academic to talk about issues of regularization, wages, benefits, and safe workplaces if the company’s franchise is not renewed.
• The Integrated Bar of the Philippines on Wednesday urged the public to trust that the Supreme Court to render a fair judgment in the quo warranto petition filed by Solicitor General Jose Calida, who wants the justices to nullify the network’s franchise because of alleged violations of constitutional limits to foreign ownership of media.
https://manilastandard.net/index.php/news/top-stories/317762/abs-cbn-needs-a-law-to-extend-its-franchise-palace.html
Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said this would enable the broadcast giant to continue operating until its new franchise is granted.
Earlier, Rep. Antonio Albano, vice chairman of the House committee on legislative franchises, said that in practice, ABS-CBN may be allowed to operate while Congress debates bills to extend its franchise.
But Panelo said a simpler way was to simply pass a new law to extend its validity.
Ako Bicol Rep. Alfredo Garbin previously said that the franchise of GMA Network, another broadcast company, expired on March 20, 2017, but it continued to operate with its authority renewed through a law signed by President Rodrigo Duterte on April 21, 2017.
Garbin also said the franchise of the 29 radio stations of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines expired in 2017 but they continued to operate even if the franchise was only renewed by the Congress in 2019.
Under Republic Act 3846, radio and television stations are required to seek a franchise from Congress.
ABS-CBN’s current franchise was approved through Republic Act 7966 on March 30, 1995.
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go on Wednesday said House members should act immediately on bills seeking to renew ABS-CBN’s franchise.
He said the lawmakers should vote according to their conscience and assured the public that President Duterte would not pressure them to vote one way or the other.
Go, a constant companion of the President, said Duterte was not being vindictive when he publicly declared that he would block the renewal of the network’s franchise.
He said Duterte merely expressed displeasure over ABS-CBN’s failure to air his political advertisement when he was running for president in 2016.
Go would not say, however, if he would support an extension to ABS-CBN’s franchise.
On the other hand, Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said he is in favor of the extension, saying none of the complaints against the network were “fatally defective.”
“I’ll put it this way. Here in the Senate, I think all of us got hit by ABS-CBN. Nobody here… was spared, but I don’t think that’s fatally defective on their franchise, or for any other media network. That’s your job. You’re the fourth estate,” Recto said.
The Senate public services committee chaired by Senator Grace Poe is set to hear the ABS-CBN’s franchise extension on Feb. 24.
In related developments:
• The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) on Tuesday said ABS-CBN has no outstanding tax liabilities, contrary to allegations being circulated online.
• A militant labor organization on Wednesday said shutting down the operations of ABS-CBN will not solve the network’s labor issues and will only place its 11,000 workers’ jobs in peril. Defend Jobs Philippines said it would be moot and academic to talk about issues of regularization, wages, benefits, and safe workplaces if the company’s franchise is not renewed.
• The Integrated Bar of the Philippines on Wednesday urged the public to trust that the Supreme Court to render a fair judgment in the quo warranto petition filed by Solicitor General Jose Calida, who wants the justices to nullify the network’s franchise because of alleged violations of constitutional limits to foreign ownership of media.
https://manilastandard.net/index.php/news/top-stories/317762/abs-cbn-needs-a-law-to-extend-its-franchise-palace.html
Full-house Senate attendance expected in ABS-CBN franchise hearing
The Senate deferred its afternoon plenary session for Monday, Feb. 24, to give way to the ABS-CBN franchise renewal hearing where majority of senators are expected to attend, Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri said.
Before adjourning Wednesday’s Senate session, Zubiri said “very important” hearings would be conducted on Monday next week, one of which would make use of the session hall as its venue.
“So to allow our colleagues to utilize all our rooms on Monday for very important hearings, particularly the Session hall, we move to adjourn session until the 26th February, Wednesday three o’clock in the afternoon,” Zubiri said.
He noted that approval of all the senators had been sought about the matter.
“The Senate is a collegial body. We make a collective decision and that was the decision we arrived at in the mini caucus,” he said in an interview.
The session will resume on Wednesday next week, Feb. 26, since Feb. 25, the EDSA People Power anniversary, is a declared national holiday, Zubiri said.
‘Full house’
According to Zubiri, the majority of the senators expressed intent to join the hearing, which will be led by Sen. Grace Poe, public services committee chair.
“About 80 percent of senators have signified that they will be attending so we are expecting a full house in terms of the membership of the Senate to attend and question resource persons,” Zubiri said in an interview.
“The committee of Sen. Grace Poe will have enough time — even if she wants all the way up to the evening — to be able to profound questions on the resource persons on this franchise application,” he added.
Other franchises, too
In a media advisory sent to reporters by Poe’s office, the franchise hearing is scheduled on Feb. 24 at 10 a.m., over a month before the ABS-CBN’s 25-year franchise lapses on March 30, 2020.
Poe’s committee will also discuss the broadcast franchises of the following companies:
Local bills, like those seeking the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, should first emanate from the House of Representatives before it can be tackled in the Senate.
But Poe announced early this week that her panel would start deliberating on the network’s franchise even without prior action from the lower chamber provided that she would not yet release a committee report on the matter.
This developed after the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) filed a quo warranto before the Supreme Court seeking to nullify ABS-CBN’s franchise.
The OSG then later filed a motion asking the high court to stop ABS-CBN and concerned parties from discussing the said petition.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1231006/senators-to-have-full-house-attendance-in-abs-cbn-franchise-hearing-on-feb-24-plenary-session-deferred
Before adjourning Wednesday’s Senate session, Zubiri said “very important” hearings would be conducted on Monday next week, one of which would make use of the session hall as its venue.
“So to allow our colleagues to utilize all our rooms on Monday for very important hearings, particularly the Session hall, we move to adjourn session until the 26th February, Wednesday three o’clock in the afternoon,” Zubiri said.
He noted that approval of all the senators had been sought about the matter.
“The Senate is a collegial body. We make a collective decision and that was the decision we arrived at in the mini caucus,” he said in an interview.
The session will resume on Wednesday next week, Feb. 26, since Feb. 25, the EDSA People Power anniversary, is a declared national holiday, Zubiri said.
‘Full house’
According to Zubiri, the majority of the senators expressed intent to join the hearing, which will be led by Sen. Grace Poe, public services committee chair.
“About 80 percent of senators have signified that they will be attending so we are expecting a full house in terms of the membership of the Senate to attend and question resource persons,” Zubiri said in an interview.
“The committee of Sen. Grace Poe will have enough time — even if she wants all the way up to the evening — to be able to profound questions on the resource persons on this franchise application,” he added.
Other franchises, too
In a media advisory sent to reporters by Poe’s office, the franchise hearing is scheduled on Feb. 24 at 10 a.m., over a month before the ABS-CBN’s 25-year franchise lapses on March 30, 2020.
Poe’s committee will also discuss the broadcast franchises of the following companies:
- Golden Broadcast Professional Inc.
- Gold Label Broadcasting System Inc.
- Broadcast Enterprises and Affiliated Media Inc.
- First United Broadcasting Corp.
- Crusaders Broadcasting System Inc.
- Bicol Broadcasting System Inc.
Local bills, like those seeking the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, should first emanate from the House of Representatives before it can be tackled in the Senate.
But Poe announced early this week that her panel would start deliberating on the network’s franchise even without prior action from the lower chamber provided that she would not yet release a committee report on the matter.
This developed after the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) filed a quo warranto before the Supreme Court seeking to nullify ABS-CBN’s franchise.
The OSG then later filed a motion asking the high court to stop ABS-CBN and concerned parties from discussing the said petition.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1231006/senators-to-have-full-house-attendance-in-abs-cbn-franchise-hearing-on-feb-24-plenary-session-deferred
UST supports ABS-CBN on franchise renewal, cites their award-winning programs
By Minka Klaudia Tiangco
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) expressed its support for news and entertainment conglomerate ABS-CBN, that is currently facing threats to the extension of their franchise.
In a statement released on Tuesday evening, UST cited ABS-CBN for winning numerous awards for its news, entertainment, and public service programs at the USTv Students’ Choice Awards.
“We offer our prayers for the network to be able to renew its franchise, and we are one with them in their commitment to continue their service to the Filipino people and the global community,” the statement read.
Earlier, Journalism faculty and students of UST released separate statements expressing their support for the broadcast giant, and condemning Solicitor General Jose Calida’s action of asking the Supreme Court (SC) not to renew ABS-CBN’s franchise.
Calida filed a quo warranto petition, which is a legal procedure filed against someone who “usurps, intrudes into, or unlawfully holds or exercises a public office, position, or franchise.”
In a statement, he accused ABS-CBN of allowing foreign investors to take parts in its ownership and broadcasting for a fee.
He also recently asked the SC to issue a gag order to stop ABS-CBN and its representatives from talking about the quo warranto case.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/02/19/ust-supports-abs-cbn-on-franchise-renewal-cites-their-award-winning-programs/
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) expressed its support for news and entertainment conglomerate ABS-CBN, that is currently facing threats to the extension of their franchise.
In a statement released on Tuesday evening, UST cited ABS-CBN for winning numerous awards for its news, entertainment, and public service programs at the USTv Students’ Choice Awards.
“We offer our prayers for the network to be able to renew its franchise, and we are one with them in their commitment to continue their service to the Filipino people and the global community,” the statement read.
Earlier, Journalism faculty and students of UST released separate statements expressing their support for the broadcast giant, and condemning Solicitor General Jose Calida’s action of asking the Supreme Court (SC) not to renew ABS-CBN’s franchise.
Calida filed a quo warranto petition, which is a legal procedure filed against someone who “usurps, intrudes into, or unlawfully holds or exercises a public office, position, or franchise.”
In a statement, he accused ABS-CBN of allowing foreign investors to take parts in its ownership and broadcasting for a fee.
He also recently asked the SC to issue a gag order to stop ABS-CBN and its representatives from talking about the quo warranto case.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/02/19/ust-supports-abs-cbn-on-franchise-renewal-cites-their-award-winning-programs/
Go calls for Congress conscience vote on ABS-CBN franchise
Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go is urging his fellow lawmakers to vote on the franchise renewal of broadcast giant ABS-CBN according to their conscience.
“Once (the franchise renewal) reaches our office here at the Senate, I will decide. I’ve already said it: vote according to your conscience,” Go said yesterday, adding that his conscience is in accordance with the best interests of the Filipino people.
The Office of the Solicitor General has asked the Supreme Court (SC) to revoke the legislative franchises of ABS-CBN Corp. and its subsidiary ABS-CBN Convergence Inc., citing what it described as “highly abusive practices” of the network.
ABS-CBN has denied any wrongdoing.
The Senate committee on public services, chaired by Sen. Grace Poe, is set to hold its first hearing on ABS-CBN’s application for the renewal of its franchise on Feb. 24.
Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said he counts 17 to 19 senators voting to renew the franchise.
Go said he would participate in the hearing, saying it may be in aid of legislation.
“Maybe, that’s the proper forum to hear both sides. We will listen to whomever wants to speak, whomever wants to complain... I might also ask some questions,” he added.
The senator said any legislative action regarding franchise bills must emanate from the House of Representatives, according to the law; thus, the lower chamber should immediately tackle the franchise application with congressmen also voting according to their own conscience.
“The longer we prolong the application, the hotter the issue becomes. Talk it among yourselves. That’s the process, anyway, and then send it here to the Senate and the President will decide, and let him approve it or exercise his veto power,” he said.
The senator added that he recently spoke with Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano on the issue, and the latter told him that the franchise application was a priority of the House, but there were many other applications lined up.
Go said he would make his decision when the franchise documents reach the Senate even as he vowed to be impartial and fair in casting his vote on the application.
Despite Duterte’s rants against the network, it does not mean he does not want its franchise to be renewed, according to the former special assistant to the President.
“(The President has) been very vocal with his grievances, but he has not ordered anyone, even me who’s close to the President. He always says vote according to your conscience and prioritize the interest of Filipinos,” Go said.
Provisional permit
Meanwhile, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) would do well if it issues a provisional permit for ABS-CBN to continue operating if and when Congress fails to act on the broadcast network’s application for the renewal of its franchise, which expires on March 30, according to the senator.
Go prodded the House to quickly act on the network’s franchise application so that the same can be forwarded to the Senate for deliberation.
“There have been many previous cases like this that were also handled by the NTC where while the renewal is still being processed, (it lets broadcast networks) operate until they are approved, like the case of the CBCP (Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines),” he told reporters.
The senator said he learned that the NTC has sought a legal opinion from the Department of Justice on the matter, apparently because the matter of ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal has become a “hot” issue.
“The usual practice is that the NTC allows them to operate, but I think this time, they’re reluctant to decide on their own,” he added.
‘Confused’
Meanwhile, Malacañang yesterday described as “confused” lawmakers pushing for a resolution which states that broadcast giant ABS-CBN could still operate even after its franchise expires in March.
Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said lawmakers could just pass a law extending all franchises pending in Congress if they are inclined to act favorably on bills renewing ABS-CBN’s franchise.
“They are confused. One lawmaker is saying he needs a resolution from the House that ABS-CBN can still operate even beyond the expiration because the practice is (a network can operate) as long as there is a pending (franchise bill),” Panelo said in a chance interview.
“My response to that is why not just pass a law extending it? While the franchise bills are pending, they can pass a law that says that, there is an extension for this period of time,” he added.
Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon had earlier filed Joint Resolution 11, which extends the franchise of ABS-CBN until Dec. 31, 2022.
In the resolution, Drilon said both the Senate and the House of Representatives need additional time to review, assess and determine whether ABS-CBN should be granted the renewal of its franchise.
Panelo said President Duterte, who had vowed to make sure that ABS-CBN would be “out,” would not stop Congress from renewing the network’s franchise.
“As matter of principle he does not interfere with a co-equal branch,” the Palace spokesman said.
Panelo was also puzzled as to why some lawmakers insist on adhering to a practice of allowing a network to operate even if its franchise had lapsed.
“They said that’s the practice. I cannot understand them. Why would they adhere to a practice? Just pass a law extending it. It’s that simple,” he told Radyo Singko 92.3 FM yesterday.
“Even if they say it’s the practice, it doesn’t mean that it’s the law. It’s the practice because nobody is questioning it. What if somebody questions it?” he added.
Go also questioned Drilon’s joint resolution.
“Why a joint resolution? Why not just approve or disapprove the franchise renewal? Why Dec. 31, 2022? Is there politics here?” he said. “It’s either we approve or we deny or reject.”
Robredo condemns gag order
Vice President Leni Robredo yesterday condemned the petition filed by Solicitor General Jose Calida asking the SC to prohibit ABS-CBN and its representatives from discussing the merits of the quo warranto case which he filed against the broadcast network.
“First and foremost, the freedom of expression is primordial,” Robredo said in an interview in Quezon City.
“And what’s hilarious is that he’s seeking a gag order against the media. It’s very ironic because we expect the media to provide information to the public, yet they are the ones who are prohibited from speaking,” she added.
Robredo said Calida’s move to suppress freedom of expression would affect not only the media company, but all Filipinos in general.
“It has implications on all of us. If it can suppress a media company like ABS-CBN through this means, then who are safe from this kind of harassment?” the Vice President said.
On Tuesday, Calida filed a “very urgent motion” asking the SC to issue a gag order which bans “parties and persons acting on their behalf” from releasing statements discussing the merits of his plea to forfeit ABS-CBN’s existing franchise.
He said this violates the sub judice rule, which prohibits anyone from publicly assessing an ongoing case to avoid pre-judgment.
Bato apologizes
In a related development, Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa apologized to the 11,000 employees of ABS-CBN who felt offended when he compared their concern with that of the entire nation.
Dela Rosa said the issue of the ABS-CBN franchise is not about its employees but oligarchs who have disregarded the rule of law for a long time now.
He also claimed that there are only about 3,000 regular employees of ABS-CBN and the number 11,000 may have included their families.
“I’m sorry if you felt offended. It’s not that I don’t value their jobs. I consider the entire nation, ABS-CBN employees included,” Dela Rosa said in Filipino.
“We can’t just ignore wrongdoings because of compassion. We will not allow those who violate the law. We will not allow these oligarchs to take advantage of us because we are poor. We should be fair and not because we are poor, they will put one over us,” he added.
The point, according to the senator, is “not because we pity those 11,000 employees, we will allow a TV station to violate laws and the government will just turn a blind eye on the violation.”
Dela Rosa said he is supportive of Poe’s initiative to conduct a public hearing on the ABS-CBN franchise to discuss the alleged violations.
He also gave assurance that in the event the senators fail to find any violation, he will personally talk to Duterte to convince him to approve the franchise.
“A public hearing is really necessary. If during the hearing, we establish that ABS-CBN is a saint, not a sinner, I will personally push for their franchise renewal. I will also personally tell the President, ‘Sir, it seems wrong information reaches you, this is the correct information.’ Only the truth should prevail,” he said.
If proven that they have violated the law, however, Dela Rosa said ABS-CBN should face the consequence of their action.
On the call for his resignation, the senator said he was voted to office by more than 19 million and those calling for his resignation were not among them.
On the accusation of some netizens that he was being a blind follower of the President, Dela Rosa said that his pronouncement that he would swim or sink with Duterte should not be taken against him as he pointed out that the President’s primary concern is the plight of the Filipino people.
“It’s logic. I am loyal to the President because I can see that his loyalty is with the Filipino people. Where should I put my loyalty, to oligarchs?” he said. – With Alexis Romero, Helen Flores, Cecille Suerte Felipe, Delon Porcalla, Louella Desiderio, EvelynMacairan
https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2020/02/20/1994664/go-calls-congress-conscience-vote-abs-cbn-franchise
“Once (the franchise renewal) reaches our office here at the Senate, I will decide. I’ve already said it: vote according to your conscience,” Go said yesterday, adding that his conscience is in accordance with the best interests of the Filipino people.
The Office of the Solicitor General has asked the Supreme Court (SC) to revoke the legislative franchises of ABS-CBN Corp. and its subsidiary ABS-CBN Convergence Inc., citing what it described as “highly abusive practices” of the network.
ABS-CBN has denied any wrongdoing.
The Senate committee on public services, chaired by Sen. Grace Poe, is set to hold its first hearing on ABS-CBN’s application for the renewal of its franchise on Feb. 24.
Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said he counts 17 to 19 senators voting to renew the franchise.
Go said he would participate in the hearing, saying it may be in aid of legislation.
“Maybe, that’s the proper forum to hear both sides. We will listen to whomever wants to speak, whomever wants to complain... I might also ask some questions,” he added.
The senator said any legislative action regarding franchise bills must emanate from the House of Representatives, according to the law; thus, the lower chamber should immediately tackle the franchise application with congressmen also voting according to their own conscience.
“The longer we prolong the application, the hotter the issue becomes. Talk it among yourselves. That’s the process, anyway, and then send it here to the Senate and the President will decide, and let him approve it or exercise his veto power,” he said.
The senator added that he recently spoke with Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano on the issue, and the latter told him that the franchise application was a priority of the House, but there were many other applications lined up.
Go said he would make his decision when the franchise documents reach the Senate even as he vowed to be impartial and fair in casting his vote on the application.
Despite Duterte’s rants against the network, it does not mean he does not want its franchise to be renewed, according to the former special assistant to the President.
“(The President has) been very vocal with his grievances, but he has not ordered anyone, even me who’s close to the President. He always says vote according to your conscience and prioritize the interest of Filipinos,” Go said.
Provisional permit
Meanwhile, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) would do well if it issues a provisional permit for ABS-CBN to continue operating if and when Congress fails to act on the broadcast network’s application for the renewal of its franchise, which expires on March 30, according to the senator.
Go prodded the House to quickly act on the network’s franchise application so that the same can be forwarded to the Senate for deliberation.
“There have been many previous cases like this that were also handled by the NTC where while the renewal is still being processed, (it lets broadcast networks) operate until they are approved, like the case of the CBCP (Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines),” he told reporters.
The senator said he learned that the NTC has sought a legal opinion from the Department of Justice on the matter, apparently because the matter of ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal has become a “hot” issue.
“The usual practice is that the NTC allows them to operate, but I think this time, they’re reluctant to decide on their own,” he added.
‘Confused’
Meanwhile, Malacañang yesterday described as “confused” lawmakers pushing for a resolution which states that broadcast giant ABS-CBN could still operate even after its franchise expires in March.
Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said lawmakers could just pass a law extending all franchises pending in Congress if they are inclined to act favorably on bills renewing ABS-CBN’s franchise.
“They are confused. One lawmaker is saying he needs a resolution from the House that ABS-CBN can still operate even beyond the expiration because the practice is (a network can operate) as long as there is a pending (franchise bill),” Panelo said in a chance interview.
“My response to that is why not just pass a law extending it? While the franchise bills are pending, they can pass a law that says that, there is an extension for this period of time,” he added.
Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon had earlier filed Joint Resolution 11, which extends the franchise of ABS-CBN until Dec. 31, 2022.
In the resolution, Drilon said both the Senate and the House of Representatives need additional time to review, assess and determine whether ABS-CBN should be granted the renewal of its franchise.
Panelo said President Duterte, who had vowed to make sure that ABS-CBN would be “out,” would not stop Congress from renewing the network’s franchise.
“As matter of principle he does not interfere with a co-equal branch,” the Palace spokesman said.
Panelo was also puzzled as to why some lawmakers insist on adhering to a practice of allowing a network to operate even if its franchise had lapsed.
“They said that’s the practice. I cannot understand them. Why would they adhere to a practice? Just pass a law extending it. It’s that simple,” he told Radyo Singko 92.3 FM yesterday.
“Even if they say it’s the practice, it doesn’t mean that it’s the law. It’s the practice because nobody is questioning it. What if somebody questions it?” he added.
Go also questioned Drilon’s joint resolution.
“Why a joint resolution? Why not just approve or disapprove the franchise renewal? Why Dec. 31, 2022? Is there politics here?” he said. “It’s either we approve or we deny or reject.”
Robredo condemns gag order
Vice President Leni Robredo yesterday condemned the petition filed by Solicitor General Jose Calida asking the SC to prohibit ABS-CBN and its representatives from discussing the merits of the quo warranto case which he filed against the broadcast network.
“First and foremost, the freedom of expression is primordial,” Robredo said in an interview in Quezon City.
“And what’s hilarious is that he’s seeking a gag order against the media. It’s very ironic because we expect the media to provide information to the public, yet they are the ones who are prohibited from speaking,” she added.
Robredo said Calida’s move to suppress freedom of expression would affect not only the media company, but all Filipinos in general.
“It has implications on all of us. If it can suppress a media company like ABS-CBN through this means, then who are safe from this kind of harassment?” the Vice President said.
On Tuesday, Calida filed a “very urgent motion” asking the SC to issue a gag order which bans “parties and persons acting on their behalf” from releasing statements discussing the merits of his plea to forfeit ABS-CBN’s existing franchise.
He said this violates the sub judice rule, which prohibits anyone from publicly assessing an ongoing case to avoid pre-judgment.
Bato apologizes
In a related development, Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa apologized to the 11,000 employees of ABS-CBN who felt offended when he compared their concern with that of the entire nation.
Dela Rosa said the issue of the ABS-CBN franchise is not about its employees but oligarchs who have disregarded the rule of law for a long time now.
He also claimed that there are only about 3,000 regular employees of ABS-CBN and the number 11,000 may have included their families.
“I’m sorry if you felt offended. It’s not that I don’t value their jobs. I consider the entire nation, ABS-CBN employees included,” Dela Rosa said in Filipino.
“We can’t just ignore wrongdoings because of compassion. We will not allow those who violate the law. We will not allow these oligarchs to take advantage of us because we are poor. We should be fair and not because we are poor, they will put one over us,” he added.
The point, according to the senator, is “not because we pity those 11,000 employees, we will allow a TV station to violate laws and the government will just turn a blind eye on the violation.”
Dela Rosa said he is supportive of Poe’s initiative to conduct a public hearing on the ABS-CBN franchise to discuss the alleged violations.
He also gave assurance that in the event the senators fail to find any violation, he will personally talk to Duterte to convince him to approve the franchise.
“A public hearing is really necessary. If during the hearing, we establish that ABS-CBN is a saint, not a sinner, I will personally push for their franchise renewal. I will also personally tell the President, ‘Sir, it seems wrong information reaches you, this is the correct information.’ Only the truth should prevail,” he said.
If proven that they have violated the law, however, Dela Rosa said ABS-CBN should face the consequence of their action.
On the call for his resignation, the senator said he was voted to office by more than 19 million and those calling for his resignation were not among them.
On the accusation of some netizens that he was being a blind follower of the President, Dela Rosa said that his pronouncement that he would swim or sink with Duterte should not be taken against him as he pointed out that the President’s primary concern is the plight of the Filipino people.
“It’s logic. I am loyal to the President because I can see that his loyalty is with the Filipino people. Where should I put my loyalty, to oligarchs?” he said. – With Alexis Romero, Helen Flores, Cecille Suerte Felipe, Delon Porcalla, Louella Desiderio, EvelynMacairan
https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2020/02/20/1994664/go-calls-congress-conscience-vote-abs-cbn-franchise