Social media users are urging the closure of SMNI
SMNI – Netizens are calling for the shutdown of the network via social media, particularly on X (formerly known as Twitter).
Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) is a far-right religious free-to-air television network in the Philippines. Owned by Swara Sug Media Corporation, it operates as the broadcasting arm of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC), led by Apollo Quiboloy. The network broadcasts national and international newscasts, talk shows, entertainment programs, and cult-related content. It exclusively airs on Digital terrestrial television and cable/satellite affiliates nationwide, with selected programs simulcast on Facebook.
SMNI’s programming includes news shows like “Balita ng Bansa” and “SMNI Newsblast,” public affairs programs like “Laban Kasama Ang Bayan,” and health-related shows such as “Healthy Chat @ Sonshine.” It also features Kingdom-related content like “ACQ Classic” and religious programs such as “Sounds of Worship.”
SMNI is currently under legal scrutiny, facing an administrative complaint filed in May 2022 before the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC). The complaint alleges violations related to disinformation and red-tagging. Additionally, a House probe investigation was launched in November 2023, examining a report about travel expenses involving House Speaker Martin Romualdez. PBA Partylist Representative Margarita Nograles filed a resolution urging the NTC to suspend SMNI’s broadcast operations for violating its franchise.
Amid the issues that SMNI has been facing, netizens took to the microblogging site, X, formerly known as Twitter, calling for the shutdown of the network. As of press time, #YesToSMNIShutdown is trending with over 1k posts.
One netizen said that the said hashtag has been trending for a couple of days, thus, the government should consider it. Another netizen noted: “SMNI is nothing more but a vehicle for the criminally corrupt to spread propaganda and discord among the people. It attacks real press freedom by spreading lies.”
