Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 9192)
ACWS-United Broadcasting Network, Inc. is granted the franchise.
To construct, install, establish, operate and maintain radio and/or television broadcasting stations in the Philippines for commercial purposes and in the public interest.
The franchise is granted for a term of twenty-five (25) years from the date of effectivity of the Act, unless sooner revoked or cancelled.
The grantee must secure the appropriate permits and licenses from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).
Failure to commence operations within one (1) year from the approval of its operating permit, failure to operate continuously for two (2) years, or failure to commence operations within three (3) years from the effectivity of the Act.
The President may temporarily take over and operate the stations or facilities, suspend operation, or authorize government use during war, rebellion, public peril, calamity, emergency, disaster or disturbance of peace and order, with due compensation to the grantee.
The grantee must provide adequate public service time for government information, maintain sound and balanced programming, assist in public information and education, conform to ethics, and avoid broadcasting obscene or false information.
No, the grantee cannot lease, transfer, sell, or assign the franchise or controlling interest without prior approval of the Congress of the Philippines.
The grantee must pay all applicable taxes, duties, fees or charges under the National Internal Revenue Code and other laws, and file returns with the appropriate city or province where its facility is located.
The grantee shall not require prior censorship but must cut off broadcasts that incite treason, rebellion or sedition, or contain indecent or immoral content, otherwise the franchise may be cancelled.