In a move that surprised many, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) announced the temporary suspension of operations of Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) for 30 days on Thursday, December 21. According to the NTC, this action was based on an examination related to House Resolution No. 189, which revealed that the network violated the specified terms and conditions of its license.
Alongside the suspension, a show cause order was issued against Swara Sug Media Corporation, the entity behind SMNI. The company is required to provide a written explanation within 15 days, stating why they should not face administrative penalties.
The NTC’s decision followed a 14-day preventive suspension order from the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) on two programs of the network owned by Pastor Apollo Quiboloy. The show “Laban Kasama ang Bayan” was suspended by the MTRCB due to an “unverified report” regarding alleged ₱1.8 billion travel funds of House Speaker Martin Romualdez for 2023.
SMNI host Jeffrey “Ka Eric” Celiz emphasized on television that Romualdez allegedly spent the mentioned amount on his travels. However, according to the MTRCB, the report has yet to be substantiated.
The suspension deeply impacts not only SMNI’s operations but also its viewers. This prompts a thorough examination of the conditions and regulations established by the NTC for broadcasting networks.
Amidst this controversy, the critical role of media in delivering news and how it should be nurtured properly is being questioned. Focusing on truth and delivering accurate news should be the priority of every media entity to maintain public trust.
In the coming days, an in-depth review by SMNI of the allegations and violations thrown at them is expected. Meanwhile, this opens an opportunity to strengthen and refine regulations in the country’s media industry.