We respect the decision of the Committee on Legislative Franchises of the House of Representatives denying the application of ABS-CBN for a franchise through a resolution of its majority.
The decision to grant or deny a franchise, as we have repeatedly said, lies solely on the members of Congress, particularly its Committee on Legislative Franchises. Jurisprudence is replete with cases holding that a franchise is a mere privilege granted by the State through its legislative body. In view thereof, the Executive Branch can not — and has not meddled — and will never interfere — with the affairs of a co-equal, separate and independent branch of the government.
ABS-CBN, as well as those against its franchise application, were given the opportunity to be heard their respective sides, that due process requires. This is a democratic process and we, in the Executive Branch, must respect its outcome.
We leave it to the collective wisdom of the Committee on Legislative Franchises apropos its denial of ABS-CBN’s franchise application. The proceeding was transparent, as it should be, with the public being apprised of its developments, of which they are entitled.
