THE continued suspension of Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) remains questionable for Senator Robin Padilla.
It has been four months since SMNI went off the air, following its indefinite suspension by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).
SMNI airs programs by Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, as well as the show “Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa” hosted by former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.
Padilla previously stated that the suspension is politically motivated.
“Of course, we’re not blind, we know that Pastor Quiboloy is the number one supporter of former President Duterte,” according to Senator Robin Padilla.
“And we cannot deny that many of those opposing Pastor Quiboloy are politically motivated,” he added.
In his recently filed proposed Senate Resolution 1000, Padilla formally requested the Senate to investigate whether the NTC violated any processes.
The investigation, in aid of legislation, is proposed to be led by the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media, which Padilla chairs.
The senator pointed out that under Republic Act No. 11659, a network’s suspension should not exceed thirty days to avoid severe damage or interference with public or private interests.
Padilla also criticized the NTC for failing to explain why SMNI was subjected to indefinite suspension in their show cause order.
According to the senator, the baseless indefinite suspension of SMNI not only denies due process but also violates press freedom.
The investigation into SMNI’s suspension was previously requested by the senator in a privilege speech during a Senate session but has not been scheduled yet.
However, his new resolution formally requesting the investigation may be conducted on April 24.
