Senator Says Candidates Making Promises to Return ABS-CBN Franchise Considered as ‘Vote-Buying’
A lawmaker warned the political candidates for 2022 elections that promising to return the ABS-CBN franchise is considered as ‘Vote-Buying’.
Last year, the franchise renewal issue of ABS-CBN becomes one of the most controversial topics on social media. The network has been shut down due to certain violation of the government’s rules and regulations.
The netizens have divided opinions regarding the matter. Some of them were in favor of the network’s closure while some of them do not agree with the government’s decision.
Recently, SMNI News reported that SAGIP party-list representative and senatorial aspirant Rodante Marcoleta considers it wrong to use ABS-CBN franchise renewal issue just to get vote for the next year’s electoral race.
Marcoleta also challenged the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to impose sanctions and penalties for anyone who will commit such violation. He explained that the Kapamilya network’s franchise should not be the basis for vote.
“Kung talagang matibay ang kanilang paninindigan, ngayon pa lang nanawagan na ako sa COMELEC, sapagkat kapag sila’y nangako na ibabalik nila ang ABS CBN, ngayon pa lang nalabag na nila ang Article 22 Sec. 261 ng Omnibus Election Code,” Marcoleta said.
Under Article 22 Sec. 261 of Omnibus Election Code, any person offering money, value, gifts, promise for employment or office position, grant of a certain promise will be considered as vote-buying.
Several political candidates have already promised to grant the Kapamilya network’s franchise renewal after securing a position in the government after the 2022 elections. One of them is former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV.
“Mark my words, ABSCBN’s franchise would be granted once the opposition wins in 2022.” Trillanes said.
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