Malacañang said the apology of ABS-CBN, whether President Duterte accepts it or otherwise, will not affect the franchise issue of the TV network.
Presidential Spokesman Panelo said the Palace will stand on its position on the matter, and that only the Congress can grant franchise to the network.
The spokesperson also commented on the resolution that Congress plans to release for ABS-CBN.
“If they can pass a resolution, I cannot understand why can’t they pass a law on either the renewal or grant of a franchise whether with respect to ABS-CBN or other pending applicants because a vote indeed for the resolution is a majority vote. The vote needed for passing a law is also a majority vote,” Panelo said.
“They supported to represent their districts, so they will have to account for their constituents why they have not done anything of this particular subject matter,” he added. – Report from Mela Lesmoras