SONSHINE Media Network International (SMNI) has resumed its broadcasting operations after a 30-day suspension ordered by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) came to an end. The network’s legal counsel, Rolex Suplico, confirmed that SMNI went back on air on Saturday, following the expiration of the suspension period on January 20. The suspension order was initially received by the network on December 21, 2023.
The NTC issued the suspension order in response to House Resolution 89, which outlined the network’s violations of the terms and conditions of its franchise granted under Republic Act 11422. One of the cited violations pertained to alleged disinformation spread by network commentators, specifically regarding claims that House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez had spent over P1.8 billion on international travel. Romualdez has vehemently denied these allegations.
The NTC issued a show-cause order, along with the suspension order, on December 19, and the suspension was implemented on December 20. However, the network’s motion to inhibit NTC Commissioner Ella Blanca Lopez and Deputy Commissioners Jon Paulo Salvahan and Alvin Bernard Blanco from taking action on their administrative case against Swara Sug Media Corp., the owner of SMNI, was denied by the commission due to a lack of merit.
In an order dated January 17 and received by SMNI on January 19, the NTC emphasized its authority to take action “motu proprio” (on its own) and ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of the authorities it has granted. The NTC stated that it is mandated to actively oversee and exercise its authority over possible violations of relevant laws, rules, regulations, and issuances.
The NTC clarified that it cannot turn a blind eye to reports or allegations of violations of its issuances. It emphasized that as a regulatory authority, it is not expected to be a passive body that refrains from taking action until a formal complaint is filed. The NTC’s role is to proactively address potential violations and uphold the integrity of its regulatory framework.
Regarding SMNI’s claim of bias and prejudice, the NTC stated that inhibiting its commissioners would restrict their active authority as duly constituted regulators. It emphasized that the administrative case against SMNI was not a result of the NTC’s unilateral action but was prompted by official reports of the network’s violations of its legislative franchise provisions.
Suplico, on behalf of SMNI, expressed their intention to file a motion for reconsideration with the NTC regarding the denial of their motion to inhibit. This indicates their commitment to exhaust all legal avenues to address their concerns.
It is important to note that the resumption of SMNI’s broadcasting operations does not absolve the network of its obligations to comply with the terms and conditions of its franchise. The NTC’s regulatory oversight remains in effect, and any future violations will be subject to appropriate action.
By providing these insights and commentary, we aim to contextualize the situation for an international audience and shed light on the complexities of the case. We will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as necessary.
Source: The Manila Times
