Will the Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte Renew ABS-CBN Franchise?

The Philippine political landscape is often marked by complex negotiations and strategic moves. As President Rodrigo Duterte approaches a critical year, the renewed controversy surrounding ABS-CBN's franchise is not lost on him. It is imperative for him to understand the implications and navigate these waters carefully.

The Strategic Context

The technique of the seasoned politician is to play the long game. With elections looming, President Duterte is acutely aware of the need to gather support from both the populace and the legislative body. By maintaining a low-profile stance, he can ensure that the issue does not overshadow his other pressing concerns. Once the elections are over, the political landscape will provide him with more leverage.

For President Duterte, the political dynamics of the next elections are critical. He aims to solidify relationships with friendly congressmen and senators prior to any significant decisions regarding ABS-CBN. If all goes well, the president can ensure that ABS-CBN's franchise is renewed without much resistance.

The Present Standpoint

Initially, President Duterte seemed firm in his stance, swearing not to approve the renewal. However, after ABS-CBN apologized for failing to air his campaign ads and returning the funds paid for its airing, the president softened his position. His statement, “I will not disapprove,” reflects his understanding of the delicate balance between personal political interests and public opinion.

The primary entity responsible for renewing the franchise is the Philippine Congress. If President Duterte does not veto the renewal bill within 60 days, it will automatically be renewed. This creates a scenario where the decision is largely in the hands of Congress, which could be more susceptible to political pressure.

Underlying Motives and Concerns

President Duterte's motivation for renewing ABS-CBN's franchise seems to stem from multiple factors, including the desire to retain his political influence through a friendly media outlet. Friend Dennis Uy, who has significant business interests with ABS-CBN, stands to benefit from this renewal. By ensuring ABS-CBN remains in friendly hands, President Duterte can use it as a tool to further his political agenda.

There is also a strategic argument to support federalism, which aims to divide the country into smaller states. This division could provide future protection for President Duterte in case he does not hold onto power, as a position in one of the Federal States would offer him legal and political sanctuary.

Furthermore, the importance of paying all outstanding dues and enacting a law prohibiting bias in reports or political meddling cannot be overstated. This move would not only secure the franchise but also help maintain a semblance of regulatory fairness.

The Role of Bias and Trust in Media

The actions taken by ABS-CBN during the Duterte presidency have raised concerns about their reliability and fairness. It is argued that ABS-CBN has a tendency towards political bias, similar to practices seen in media outlets like CNN in the United States. This bias, whether deliberate or not, has influenced public perception and trust in their reporting.

For President Duterte, ensuring the renewal comes with a commitment to fair and unbiased media coverage will be crucial. Trust in the media is vital for maintaining support and influencing public opinion. The president must address these criticisms head-on to maintain credibility and gain public trust.

Conclusion

President Rodrigo Duterte's decision to renew ABS-CBN's franchise is not just a simple business decision. It is a strategic move influenced by politics, personal interests, and the need to maintain public trust. The ultimate outcome will depend on how well these interests are balanced and how effectively ABS-CBN can address the allegations of bias and uphold its commitment to fair and unbiased reporting.