IT seems that some are still not satisfied with SMNI’s suspension as left-leaning groups in Congress are pushing to ban the network from social media platforms – a move contested by Atty. Harry Roque.
It seems that some are still not satisfied with Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) suspension as left-leaning groups in Congress are pushing to ban the network from social media platforms – a move contested by Atty. Harry Roque.
The former Palace spokesperson insists that, as lawmakers, these members of Congress should at least study the country’s laws on this matter.
“My advise to lawmakers: You make laws, so study the law,” according to Atty. Harry Roque, Former Presidential Spokesperson.
That’s the response of Atty. Harry Roque to lawmakers pushing to ban SMNI from social media platforms.
During the House Committee on Legislative Franchises hearing, left-leaning Congress members repeatedly insisted on banning or removing SMNI programs from all social media platforms.
According to Roque, this goes against the law.
“I stood before the Supreme Court to argue that a takedown without judicial intervention is against the Constitution. That’s why the provision in the Cybercrime Act allowing unilateral takedown has been invalidated by our Supreme Court,” Roque added.
During Wednesday’s hearing, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) admitted that their regulatory powers over franchises do not cover social media platforms.
Atty. Roque also explained the limitations on freedom of expression.
“The limitation there is if there is a clear and present danger where the state has the right to intervene.”
“So, our question, in the queries to the House Speaker, is whether the information about spending billions on travel poses a clear and present danger?”
“Is there a threat that Filipinos will kill each other if that is true?”
“Or is that a question that can be asked because information is within the rights of the media concerning their day-to-day lives, and, of course, how the government funds are being spent?” Roque stated.
