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Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque
MANILA – Malacañang has not reacted to the return of some ABS-CBN programs to free-to-air television after closing a deal with the television network of the founder and vice president of the Jesus Is Lord Church, Eddie Villanueva.
Presidential spokesman Harry Roque described ABS-CBN as a “content provider,” adding that it is a distinct line of business that does not require a franchise to operate.
“We have no reaction because they are content providers,” Roque said in an interview with CNN Philippines’ The Source.
However, he said that it is the Villanueva television network that would be subject to the franchise regulation.
“For all intended purposes, it is Zoe that will be subject to regulation because Zoe is the franchisee,” said Roque.
ABS-CBN will air select shows and movies beginning October 10 on the newly renamed “A2Z,” formerly known as Zoe TV Channel 11 or Zoe TV.
The agreement between Kapamilya Network and Zoe Broadcasting Network, Inc. will allow Filipinos to watch their favorite shows that became inaccessible on television after Congress denied the ABS-CBN franchise.
“So I suppose fans of Probinsyano and the other soap operas can look forward to it on Zoe TV,” he said.
When asked if ABS-CBN’s return to free television was mentioned when Villanueva led a prayer for President Rodrigo Duterte last week, Roque said he had no personal knowledge.
“I wouldn’t know. I was not at the meeting either. I receive orders on what to say from the president himself, which saves me having to go to all the meetings. Otherwise, I won’t have a life, ”he said.
ABS-CBN ceased its transmission operations on May 5, one day after the expiration of the network’s legislative franchise, following the cease and desist order from the National Telecommunications Commission.
The House Legislative Franchise Committee, on July 10, ruled out ABS-CBN’s franchise offer for another 25 years in a 70-11 vote.
The panel denied ABS-CBN’s application for a franchise to build, install, establish, operate and maintain radio and broadcast stations in the Philippines. (PNA)
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