SEN. Robinhood Padilla, the chair of the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media, has strongly criticized the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) for its unjust 30-day suspension order on Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI). In a resolution filed on Monday, Padilla expressed his support for SMNI and condemned the NTC for implementing the suspension without due process.
According to Padilla, the baseless issuance of the suspension order not only violates SMNI’s right to due process but also poses a significant threat to the network and its employees. He emphasized that this action could result in serious and irreparable damage. It is essential to protect the rights of individuals and organizations, regardless of their nature or size, and ensure that due process is followed in all proceedings.
Padilla highlighted the valuable role played by SMNI in the government’s anti-terrorism campaign. Through its programs, the network educates the public, particularly the youth, about the dangers of communist propaganda and recruitment strategies. This contribution to national security should be recognized and supported.
Additionally, Padilla mentioned that SMNI has received numerous awards and recognition for its exceptional work. These accolades are a testament to the network’s credibility and dedication to providing quality content to its viewers.
The timing of the NTC’s suspension order raises concerns. It came shortly after the House of Representatives summoned SMNI representatives to a hearing regarding allegations of “fake news” peddling. Padilla questioned the NTC’s failure to provide a clear justification for suspending SMNI’s operations. The commission did not adequately explain how this suspension was necessary to prevent serious and irreparable damage or inconvenience to the public or private interests.
In support of his argument, Padilla referred to Justice Marvic Leonen’s concurring opinion in the ABS-CBN case against the NTC in 2020. Leonen acknowledged that due process is guaranteed by the Constitution and extends to administrative proceedings. This acknowledgment reinforces the importance of fair and transparent procedures in all government actions.
Furthermore, Padilla cited a Supreme Court ruling from December 2008 (Montoya v. Varilla) that emphasized the need for basic procedural principles, including the right to due process, in administrative proceedings. While procedural rules may be less stringent in such cases, they are not exempt from fundamental principles that safeguard individuals’ rights.
In light of these considerations, Padilla’s resolution aims to express support for SMNI and condemn the NTC for implementing a 30-day suspension without due process. It is crucial to protect the freedom of the press and ensure that all organizations, regardless of their political affiliations, are treated fairly and in accordance with the law.
Padilla’s stance reflects the need for accountability and transparency in government actions. It is essential to uphold the principles of due process to safeguard the rights of individuals and organizations. The international community should take note of this case and recognize the importance of fair and just proceedings in all countries.
In conclusion, Senator Robinhood Padilla’s resolution demonstrates his unwavering support for SMNI and his condemnation of the NTC’s baseless suspension order. The network’s contributions to the anti-terrorism campaign and its numerous awards highlight its credibility and dedication. Padilla’s resolution calls for the protection of due process and emphasizes the need for fair and transparent procedures in all administrative proceedings. It is necessary to ensure that the rights of individuals and organizations are respected and upheld.
Source: The Manila Times
