Alfred Vargas inhibits from voting on ABS-CBN franchise renewal

MANILA, Philippines — Actor and Quezon City Rep. Alfred Vargas on Friday inhibited from voting on ABS-CBN franchise renewal, citing “conflict of interest.”

“My heart goes to ABS-CBN, its employees, and other workers whose livelihood depends on the network,” Vargas said in a statement, just as the House legislative franchises committee members are set to cast their votes on the fate of the embattled media giant.

The actor turned lawmaker cited Republic Act 6713 Section 7(a), on the Code of Conduct of Public Officials, and Sections 28 and 81 of Rule IX of the House Rules on Committee Voting, as well as avoidance of conflict of interest.

“This representation as an actor/producer has been engaged for artistic projects with the network,” Vargas said.

“Thus, out of propriety and as dictated by law, I am duty-bound to inhibit myself from voting on the application for the franchise of ABS-CBN,” he added.

Over 90 lawmakers will cast their votes on Friday after summarizing the arguments on various issues hounding the network’s franchise.

A total of 12 hearings were held in consideration of the franchise renewal of ABS-CBN, which has been ordered shut on May 5 following the expiration of its congressional franchise.

EDV