Several lawmakers belonging to the bloc of Speaker-in-Waiting, Marinduque Rep. Lord Velasco are questioning the move of Solicitor General Jose Calida in filing a petition with the Supreme Court seeking to cancel ABS-CBN’s broadcasting franchise. The legislators are led by Surigao del Sur 2nd District Rep. Johnny Pimentel, who is one of Velasco’s the most vocal supporters.
“(The) Office of the Solicitor General is already usurping the power of Congress,” said Pimentel in response to Calida’s quo waranto petition.
“Congress has not yet even decided whether to renew or cancel the franchise.”
According to the Surigao Rep., ABS-CBN should be given a hearing in Congress to defend their franchise. This despite President Duterte’s outspoken criticism of the media corporation.
According to the Surigao Rep., ABS-CBN should be given a hearing in Congress to defend their franchise. This despite President Duterte’s outspoken criticism of the media corporation.
This is not the first time that Pimentel, who led the signing of a manifesto urging the President to support Velasco as Speaker of the House, has gone against Malacañan.
He also cautioned President Duterte against the “severe repercussions” that his “knee-jerk” reaction to the Visiting Forces Agreement may cause to the country.
