The Liberal Party on Saturday condemned what it described as the “most recent charade in Congress” and its “use of naked political power” in rejecting the bid of ABS-CBN for renewal of its franchise.
“The exercise focused less on pointing out the network’s shortcomings than on punishing it for perceived wrongs. In this way, there was seeming censorship with the attempt to suppress media’s impartial accounts involving corruption, incompetence, and bully tactics of government,” the group said in a statement.
“As Liberals, we stand for our rights and freedoms as enshrined in the Constitution. They enhance our lives as individuals and communities,” said LP, which is chaired by Vice President Leni Robredo.
“In this instance, freedom of the press and our right to information have just been curtailed. And during this urgent health crisis, ABS-CBN’s extensive network would be missed by those in the far-flung areas for its news, educational programs, and entertainment,” LP said.
“It is not only for these freedoms that we grieve. We are equally saddened, nay, enraged by the glaring callousness for the welfare of 11,000 workers, mostly breadwinners of families who will lose their jobs at this crucial time. Adding to the 7 million unemployed is the height of irresponsibility if not criminality,” it added.
“Join us and rise to protest this outrage, even as we denounce the 70 congressmen who brought it about,” LP said.