In a recent development, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has suspended the radio and television operations of Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI), a move that has been deemed unconstitutional by former presidential chief legal counsel Salvador Panelo. Panelo, who himself read the NTC’s ruling in a livestream on YouTube, has raised concerns about the violation of due process and the assault on press freedom.
According to Panelo, the NTC’s suspension order lacks due process, as it was issued without giving SMNI an opportunity to defend itself. This blatant disregard for the network’s rights raises serious questions about the constitutionality of the NTC’s actions. Panelo also highlights the chilling effect this suspension has on other broadcasting networks, as it restricts their ability to disseminate information and news to the public.
The suspension of SMNI’s operations not only silences the network but also infringes upon the rights of its program hosts and anchors to express themselves freely. It curtails the public’s right to information through their preferred communication network. This overreach by the NTC undermines the principles of a free press and raises concerns about the erosion of democratic values.
Panelo further argues that the NTC violated its own rules and regulations in issuing the suspension order. The NTC failed to demonstrate the required “serious and irreparable damage or inconvenience to the public and private interests” that would warrant such a drastic measure. This abuse of regulatory power is not only outrageous but also constitutionally impermissible.
The NTC justified its suspension of SMNI’s operations by citing violations in provisions of its legislative franchise granted by the House of Representatives. However, this justification falls short of addressing the concerns raised by Panelo and other critics. The NTC’s actions appear to be a thinly veiled attempt to stifle dissent and limit the network’s ability to report on matters of public interest.
Despite the suspension, SMNI can still be accessed through some cable and online platforms. The network’s Facebook page may be temporarily offline, but alternative pages such as Totoong Boses ng Bayan and Truth that Matters continue to provide SMNI news reports and programs. Additionally, SMNI maintains an online presence through various social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter) and the video-streaming site Rumble. The network has also launched a YouTube channel, Sonshine Media, after its original channel was removed by the video streaming website.
The suspension of SMNI’s operations serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by media organizations in upholding press freedom. It highlights the need for robust legal protections to safeguard the rights of journalists and ensure the free flow of information. The international community must pay attention to such developments and condemn any actions that undermine the principles of a free press and the right to information.
In conclusion, the NTC’s suspension of Sonshine Media Network International’s radio and television operations is not only unconstitutional but also a direct assault on press freedom. The violation of due process, the curtailment of the network’s ability to disseminate information, and the infringement upon the rights of program hosts and anchors are all deeply troubling. It is imperative that these actions are challenged and that the importance of a free press is upheld in the face of such threats.
Source: The Manila Times
