House Deputy Speaker Rodante Marcoleta mentioned that the ABS-CBN network still has to go through many processes before it can apply for a fresh franchise in 2021.
It can be remembered that the Kapamilya network was forced to shut down after 70 lawmakers, including Marcoleta, voted to deny its franchise stating several violations such as Philippine Depositary Receipts (PDRs), foreigner ownership, and tax deficiencies among others.
According to Marcoleta, ABS-CBN should first go through major organizational reforms before they will be given a fresh 25-year franchise.
“ABS-CBN has to go through major reforms, starting with a change in management and facilities, before they are given a new franchise to operate,” he said.
Additionally, he explained that ABS-CBN needs to take care of the issues raised with their network first during the time of its Senate hearing about its franchise.
“[ABS-CBN should] address the various violations of securities and labor laws, and the constitutional provision mandating the 100 percent Filipino ownership of a media company.” he added.
However, ABS-CBN has already answered all the issues raised in its previous hearing. Several government agencies, who were invited to the hearing, also cleared ABS-CBN of any grave constitutional violation that can cost their franchise.
Marcoleta is known to be one of the principal opponents of the ABS-CBN franchise.
His statement came after Buhay Partylist Rep. Lito Atienza mentioned that ABS-CBN will be back with a fresh franchise in 2021.
Atienza is one of the major supporters of the ABS-CBN franchise bid who defended ABS-CBN from the unfounded allegations of Marcoleta, Remulla, and Defensor.
He said that his claims of the Kapamilya network having a fresh franchise in 2021 was not a guess, but a reality that will definitely happen.
“Hindi hula yun, that’s a reality mangyayari ‘yun,”
“I am really confident, justice will prevail by next year,” he said.
“They were maltreated, they were eventually assassinated, so they should be given justice.
“Ako, I am just giving the new Speaker time to settle. Hindi naman natin puwedeng biglain, major battle, kauupo lamang niya. But I am not shying away from the responsibility and for the opportunity to come – that I’m working on – para maibalik natin ‘yung floor discussion. Hindi ‘yung special firing squad. Ang pumatay sa ABS-CBN, firing squad lang, eh,” Atienza added.
