SMNI representatives visited the offices of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) on Thursday morning, to file motions against separate suspensions imposed by the two agencies.
SMNI’s legal team wants them to specify the alleged violations of the network to justify the 30-day suspension on radio and free TV.
The network particularly submitted a ‘Motion for Bill of Particulars’ to the NTC, seeking clarification on the grounds for suspension.
“We are asking the NTC to explain kung ano ‘yung mga violation para masagot namin,” according to Atty. Mark Tolentino Legal Counsel, SMNI.
When asked if the NTC hinted at the alleged violations to SMNI, Atty. Rolex Suplico jokingly suggested consulting a fortune teller for answers.
“Ano bang kasalanan namin? Itanong ba namin kay Madam Auring ito o bago na ngayon no? Kay Hanz Cua. Dahil hindi namin alam eh,” said Atty. Rolex Suplico Legal Counsel, SMNI.
The lawyers clarified that the new petition filed is distinct from the earlier Petition for Inhibition against three NTC officials.
SMNI files motion against suspension of two programs
SMNI filed a motion for reconsideration regarding the suspension of its two programs, “Laban Kasama ang Bayan” and Former Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s “Gikan Sa Masa, Para Sa Masa”.
“’Yung argument natin number 1 freedom of press, freedom of expression. And public issues we have the right to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation,” Atty. Mark Tolentino Legal Counsel, SMNI stated.
“Kung hindi sila makapresenta ng clear and present danger rule as a basis for their ruling, the presumption will remain. The presumption is the ruling of the MTRCB are presumed unconstitutional,” he added.
“Ang epekto ng motion for reconsideration, hindi iyan final and executory ‘yung suspension ng MTRCB,” he said.
To recall, the MTRCB suspended the two programs starting December 18, 2023. SMNI previously filed a motion for reconsideration, but on January 4, MTRCB extended the suspension for 14 more days.
If the MTRCB rejects SMNI’s motion, the lawyers plan to appeal to the Office of the President.
The MTRCB assured a thorough review of SMNI’s motion, in accordance with its mandate.
“It is within SMNI’s rights to file such a motion. This is part of the due process afforded to all entities dealing with our office. We will thoroughly review SMNI’s motion for reconsideration in strict accordance with our functions and responsibilities as mandated by Presidential Decree 1986,” according to Movie and Television Review and Classification Board.
Meanwhile, former President Duterte earlier expressed his desire to speak with President Bongbong Marcos regarding SMNI’s current situation. He mentioned that his program “Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa” also suffered due to the network’s suspension.
“Kasi nadali ‘yung aking Gikan sa Masa, isali ko na lang ‘yung akin kasi ‘yun ang importante sa akin ‘yung [programa]. I do not want to confront the President but I’d like to talk to him indirectly kung bakit gano’n. Ako, as far as I am concerned, I have not crucified him, not even criticized him severely, maybe commented on the directions that the government is proceeding,” said Former Pres. Rodrigo Roa Duterte Republic of the Philippines/Courtesy: Dennis R. Lazo.
To this, Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cheloy Garafil said the Malacañang is open to a dialogue with President Duterte.
The legal team of SMNI also has something to say to those behind the suspension of the programs and the network’s operation.
“Simple lang ang sinasabi namin dito. Huwag kayong balat sibuyas. Huwag kayong balat sibuyas. Yun lang ang sinasabi natin dito,” Atty. Suplico added.
