Poe says Duterte’s presence at ABS-CBN franchise hearing not necessary

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Grace Poe said inviting President Rodrigo Duterte himself to the Senate hearing on ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal is not mandatory, noting that he may have other pressing matters to tackle.

“I don’t think it’s necessary,” Poe, chair of the Senate public services committee, said in a press conference when asked if her panel would invite the President.

Duterte has been vocal against the franchise renewal of the media giant, which he accused of failing to air his paid campaign during the presidential elections in 2016.

She said the chief executive could opt to send a representative to the hearing.

“I think the President has his representatives to speak on his behalf,” Poe said.

“I’m sure the President also has other responsibilities to attend to at this point. I heard he’ll be going around the country, which is good to allay the fears of our countrymen regarding COVID-19 (coronavirus disease),” she added.

“But I hope whoever his representatives will be—if he decides to send one—will be able to articulate what the concerns are,” she further said.

The senator said others who are opposed to or have concerns regarding the franchise renewal of ABS-CBN could also use the hearing as a venue to air their side.

“Yung mga ibang merong katwiran na laban sa pag-renew ng prangkisa ng ABS-CBN ay bibigyan natin ng pagkakataon natin ng pagkakataon para magsalita,” she said.

(Those who are against the franchise renewal of ABS-CBN will also be given a chance to air their side.)

Poe said her committee would start its hearing on the franchise of ABS-CBN as bills seeking its renewal remain pending at the House of Representatives.