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President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law five measures extending for 25 more years the broadcasting franchise of Cignal TV, Franciscan Broadcasting Corp., Soundstream Broadcasting Corp., Nation Broadcasting Corp. of the Philippines, and Real Radio Network Inc.
They must secure permits and licenses from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), which has the power to suspend and revoke these in case of violation of the terms of the franchise.
The NTC may also recommend to Congress the revocation of the franchise. The franchise would also be considered revoked if the grantee fails to operate continuously for two years.
The President also signed into law the franchise of Iriga Telephone Co. Inc. and a new franchise to the University of Southern Mindanao to construct and operate radio broadcasting stations in Cotabato City. —LEILA B. SALAVERRIA
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