To stop the NTC suspension order, SMNI asks the Court of Appeals
SMNI – The Sonshine Media Network International has appealed to the Court of Appeals (CA) to intervene and prevent the execution of the suspension order issued by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).
Former legislator and SMNI counsel Rolex Suplico informed the press, “The suspension order is immediately executory, that is why we are asking the Court of Appeals to issue a temporary restraining order to stop the implementation of the show cause order and also the suspension order.”
Suplico argued that the NTC’s order violated several constitutional provisions, including the right to due process, separation of powers, and freedom of speech. Despite being given 15 days to respond to a complaint against SMNI, a suspension order was issued simultaneously, which Suplico deemed a serious violation of the Constitution. He accused the NTC of abusing its power.
On December 21, the NTC imposed a 30-day suspension on SMNI for alleged violations of its franchise terms. In addition to the suspension, a show cause order was issued, requiring SMNI to explain why they should not face administrative sanctions.
The suspension order was based on House Resolution 1499, which claimed that SMNI violated its franchise terms, particularly Section 4, which prohibits the network from using its facilities to spread false information. However, Suplico and co-counsel Atty. Mark Tolentino contended that the NTC, as a quasi-judicial body, should have conducted an independent assessment instead of adopting the House of Representatives’ recommendation, emphasizing that this act is a breach of the separation of powers. Both lawyers highlighted that the House’s inquiry was conducted to aid legislation.
Meanwhile, the Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) is a media network based in the Philippines. It is associated with the religious group Kingdom of Jesus Christ led by Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy. SMNI operates television and radio programs that often feature religious content, discussions, and news.