Recognition of Broadcast Media Freedom and Self-Regulation
- The freedom and independence of the broadcast media are vital for the protection of fundamental civil rights such as freedom of speech and access to true and accurate information.
- The NTC recognizes the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas (KBP) as the self-regulatory body for broadcast media through longstanding agreements (1984, 1991, 1999).
- The NTC adopts the KBP’s program standards as its own and acknowledges the KBP Radio and Television Codes as the benchmark for responsible broadcasting.
Endorsement of Existing KBP Program Standards
- No new guidelines are issued; instead, existing KBP standards and previous NTC Memorandum Circulars (No. 11-12-85 and No. 22-89) remain applicable.
- These standards aim to protect public interest during normal conditions and emergencies, including armed conflict, public peril, and calamities.
Prohibitions Against Broadcasting Material Threatening State Security
- Broadcast stations must not allow their facilities to be used to promote the overthrow of the government by force or violence.
- Broadcast of materials that incite treason, rebellion, sedition, or constitute a clear and present danger to the State is prohibited.
Restrictions on Coverage of Sensitive Military Information
- Coverage of troop movements is highly sensitive due to national defense and security reasons.
- Restrictions include excluding information identifying troop locations, personnel, estimates, landmarks, destinations, or directions to avoid compromising security.
Supervision and Due Process
- Both government supervision and industry self-regulation require the exercise of thoughtful discretion and adherence to due process.
- There is a balance between regulatory control and freedom of the media.
Right of the Public to Know Broadcast Standards
- It is the government and media’s responsibility to be informed of program standards.
- Equally, the public has the right to know the accepted standards for broadcasting.
Adoption and Enforcement of Standards
- The NTC formally adopts the KBP Radio and Television Codes, relevant KBP circulars (including Circular 06-016, 27 February 2006), and prior NTC memorandum circulars as the governing standards.
- All broadcast media and cable TV entities are required to conform to these standards.
Complaints and Adjudication Process
- Complaints against KBP members for violations of broadcast laws, NTC rules, and KBP codes must be forwarded to the KBP Standard Authority for adjudication.
- Complaints against non-KBP broadcast entities are to be directly acted upon by the NTC following due notice and hearing.
Repeal and Effectivity
- Any prior circulars, memoranda, or orders inconsistent with this Memorandum Circular are amended, revised, or repealed.
- The circular takes effect fifteen (15) days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation.