Cayetano: Congress not curbing press freedom with ABS-CBN franchise rejection

Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano asserted that Congress has not compromised press freedom with the rejection of the ABS-CBN legislative franchise, stating that the decision was about ending the privilege of one family using a public resource for private interests.

Cayetano emphasized that the House of Representatives respects the right of media members and Filipinos to criticize the government and clarified that Congress's action does not prevent ABS-CBN journalists, hosts, commentators, talents, or employees from criticizing the government.

He further stated that lawmakers rejected ABS-CBN's franchise renewal not to stifle the press, but because the media giant has long been playing "kingmaker" in the country.

Cayetano pointed out that other newsrooms like GMA, its radio arm DZBB, and Rappler are not attempting to influence politics like ABS-CBN.

He cited that more critical reports against him come from DZBB than DZMM, yet he still respects them and grants interviews.

The Speaker's statement comes amidst strong protests from various sectors, civil society, and non-government organizations against the House Committee on Legislative Franchises' decision, with media organizations condemning the franchise rejection as a significant attack on press freedom and the constitutional right to information.