The issue of a big media network being closed caused quite a buzz in the country but it clearly showed us that the matter was to be left in professional hands.
The House Bill No. 6732 or “An Act Granting the ABS-CBN Corporation a Franchise to Construct, Install, Operate and Maintain Radio and Television Broadcasting Stations in the Philippines, and For Other Purposes” has been approved by the House of Representatives Committee of the Whole.
This bill was filed by Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano to allow ABS-CBN to operate with a “provisional franchise” until October 31, 2020.
“Providing ABS-CBN with a provisional franchise valid until 31 October 2020 will give both the House of Representatives and the Senate to hear the issues being raised for and against the renewal, and assess, with complete impartiality and fairness, whether or not the network shall be granted a franchise for another twenty-five (25) years.”
It was also stated in the bill that the lawmakers “cannot, in good conscience, sweep the accusations under the rug.”
Once finalized in the House of Representatives, the Senate said then will pass the bill.
“We look forward to participating in the process of our franchise renewal and stand ready to respond to the issues that have been raised against the network, its owners, management and employees. We remain open to opinions and constructive suggestions on how to improve the organization and better serve the Filipino people.”
– ABS-CBN
According to Cayetano, ABS-CBN may come back on air by June.
