[OPINION] Stop harassing ABS-CBN

The message of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) was clear and we condemn the harassment being brought against ABS-CBN. The 2 cease- and- desist orders of the National Telecommunication Commission (NTC) is clearly a suppression of press freedom.

The actions of certain individuals and this government agency had caused thousands to lose their jobs, future and dreams. And as we continue watching the “Tele-Novela’s” in the House, I remember and I will always remember these names: Speaker Allan Peter Cayetano, House Deputy Speaker Rodante Marcoleta , Anakalusugan Rep. Mike Defensor , Cavite Rep. Crispin Remulla and the NTC , these public officials who don’t deserve my votes and respect.

We… Resist the Cease and Desist Order of NTC

The service of two cease and desist orders by the National Telecommunications Commission stopping ABS-CBN’s digital broadcast on TVPlus in Metro Manila and SKY Cable’s Direct Broadcast Satellite Service is a step of the cowards hiding behind the curtain to bury the truth being told by the giant TV network.

This step effectively deprives millions of Filipinos – an estimated 11 million homes according to ABS-CBN CEO Carlo Katigbak – of their right to know and to choose how to access their news, information and entertainment. It is clear that the end goal of these individuals is not only to shut down ABS-CBN but to send a message throughout the media industry that other news organizations may face the same fate unless they surrender their watchdog role, the critical and independent reportage that is an essential part of the media’s mission.

This must not go unchallenged. We call on the leaders of the country’s news organizations and our colleagues in the community of independent journalists to come together as a profession and industry and demand that whoever is behind this attack on our press freedom, should stop this persecution of ABS-CBN and allow it back on air in the name of freedom of the press and the people’s right to know.

To our people, we urge you to raise your voices and let it be known that the Filipino will not stand idly as they run roughshod over our rights and liberties.