Title
UP System Broadcast Franchise Renewal Act
Law
Republic Act No. 11540
Decision Date
May 18, 2021
A law renews the franchise of the University of the Philippines System, allowing them to operate radio and television broadcasting stations for educational purposes, with requirements including compliance with regulations, balanced programming, public participation, tax exemption, child-friendly shows, and annual reports to Congress, while violations can result in fines or cancellation of the franchise.

Q&A (Republic Act No. 11540)

The franchise is renewed for another twenty-five (25) years from its expiration on August 9, 2021.

The franchise authorizes the University to construct, establish, maintain, and operate radio and television broadcasting stations for educational and other related purposes within its campuses and other areas within its scope of operations.

Yes, the franchise includes the use of new technologies in television and radio systems, including digital television systems, microwave, satellite, or other means.

The University must secure appropriate permits and licenses from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and cannot use any frequency without NTC authorization.

The University shall provide free public service time that is reasonable and sufficient to enable the government to reach pertinent populations for important announcements, issues, emergencies, and calamities.

Pursuant to Republic Act No. 8370, the University must allot a minimum of fifteen percent (15%) of the daily total air time to child-friendly shows within its regular programming.

In times of war, rebellion, public peril, calamity, emergency, disaster, or disturbance of peace and order, the President may temporarily take over or suspend operations of the stations for public safety, security, and welfare.

The University is exempt from paying all taxes and fees as provided in Section 25 of Republic Act No. 9500, the University of the Philippines Charter of 2008.

Yes, the University shall not sell, lease, transfer, grant usufruct, or assign the franchise or its rights to any person or entity.

The University will be fined Five hundred pesos (P500.00) per working day of noncompliance, collected by the NTC and remitted to the Bureau of the Treasury.


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