Wazzup Pilipinas!?
On January 7, 2025, ABS-CBN Corporation expressed gratitude following the filing of House Bill No. 11252 by Albay Representative Joey Salceda, which seeks to grant the media company a new 25-year broadcast franchise. In their official statement, ABS-CBN acknowledged the support and belief in their contributions and mission to serve the Filipino public.
This legislative move marks the fifth attempt to secure a franchise for ABS-CBN since its previous franchise expired on May 4, 2020. The network ceased its free-to-air broadcast operations on May 5, 2020, following a cease and desist order from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC). Subsequent efforts to renew the franchise were unsuccessful, culminating in the House Committee on Legislative Franchises' decision on July 10, 2020, to deny the application, citing various issues.
The history of ABS-CBN's franchise is notable. The network was initially granted a 25-year franchise under Republic Act No. 7966, approved on March 30, 1995. This franchise became effective on April 19, 1995, and expired on May 4, 2020. Prior to the expiration, at least 12 bills were filed in the House during the 18th Congress to extend the franchise for another 25 years.
The denial of the franchise renewal in 2020 led to significant repercussions, including the retrenchment of thousands of employees and the cessation of various services provided by the network. Critics viewed the shutdown as a blow to press freedom in the Philippines. In the years following, ABS-CBN continued to operate through cable and online platforms, maintaining its commitment to delivering news and entertainment to the Filipino audience.
The filing of House Bill No. 11252 by Rep. Salceda is seen as a renewed effort to restore ABS-CBN's presence in free-to-air broadcasting. The bill proposes to grant the network a legislative franchise to construct, install, operate, and maintain television and radio broadcasting stations throughout the Philippines.
ABS-CBN also extended its appreciation to other lawmakers, including Representatives Gabriel Bordado Jr., Arlene Brosas, France Castro, Raoul Manuel, Johnny Pimentel, and Rufus Rodriguez, for filing similar resolutions in support of the company's franchise renewal.
As the legislative process unfolds, the network and its supporters remain hopeful for a favorable outcome that would allow ABS-CBN to resume its full broadcasting operations, continuing its mission to serve the Filipino public through free-to-air television and radio.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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