MANILA – The House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on second reading a measure renewing for another 25 years the franchise granted to Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation (IBC-13).
House Bill No. 6505, principally authored by Parañaque City 2nd District Representative Gus Tambunting and Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda, seeks to renew the franchise granted to IBC-13 under Republic Act 8954 “to construct, install, establish, operate and maintain for commercial purposes and in the public interest, radio and television broadcasting stations in the Philippines.”
IBC-13 is a television and radio network with five provincial TV stations, with four relay stations, and 11 provincial radio stations.
In urging for its franchise renewal, Tambunting cited Article II Section 24 of the Constitution, which expressly provides that “the State recognizes the vital role of communication and information in nation-building.”
“The vision of IBC-13 is to be the public children’s education network. In partnership with the Department of Education and with every Filipino family, IBC-13 shall be geared towards the education of our greatest national resource, the Filipino youth, providing programming that promotes positive Filipino values, good morals and right conduct, while correcting outdated, traditional behavior that is a continuing obstacle to development and progress,” the chair of the House Committee on Legislative Franchises and the bill sponsor said.
“The mission of IBC-13 is to inspire the brilliant children towards a brighter tomorrow and a better Philippines. Distinguished members of the House of Representatives, I ask for approval of the franchise of IBC-13 for them to achieve their vision-mission for the Filipino people,” Tambunting said.
The measure was approved viva voce. (PNA)
