SENATOR Ronald ‘Bato’ dela Rosa expressed unwavering solidarity with SMNI, emphasizing the network’s commitment amid the ongoing battle of its franchise in the Lower House.
In an ambush interview with SMNI in Baguio City, Sen. Bato stated that SMNI has been risking not only its resources but also the safety and lives of its members in the fight against the communist terrorist group.
He then assured that he would defend SMNI if the network’s franchise to operate is endorsed to the Upper House.
“I strongly support SMNI because I know that SMNI is risking all their resources, even their lives and safety, in the fight against the CPP-NPA-NDF. I stand united with SMNI, wherever SMNI goes, I will be there too. So, if the cancellation of SMNI’s franchise comes, whether it will be passed in the Lower House or advances to the Senate, you can count on me [in defending] SMNI. I am well aware of what SMNI is doing,” according to Sen. Ronald ‘Bato’ dela Rosa.
Sen. Dela Rosa also highlighted that SMNI is the only station genuinely sympathetic to the government’s programs.
“To our viewers of SMNI worldwide, whatever challenges SMNI is facing right now, I am with you, I am with you in those challenges. I hope and pray that we overcome those challenges. Do not lose courage. Keep fighting because if we lose courage, who will benefit? The [terrorist] group will prevail if SMNI is gone because it is the only station I see that is truly sympathetic to the cause of this country. That’s what I see. Others may show something, but it’s not as intense as what SMNI shows in how much they love our country. That’s why I am here, I am always with you,” he added.
To recall, SMNI’s franchise to operate has been under scrutiny by the House Committee on Legislative on Franchises.
Anchors Dr. Lorraine Badoy and Jeffrey ‘Ka Eric Celiz are now on a hunger strike after being cited in contempt during the network’s hearing on December 5.
