Senate panel OKs franchise renewal of TV5

MANILA, Philippines — The Senate committee on public services has recommended the renewal of TV5’s franchise for another 25 years as lawmakers cited the network for its contributions in delivering timely and relevant news and sports programs.

Chaired by Sen. Grace Poe, the committee swiftly approved the franchise renewal during a hearing on Thursday as there was no opposition to its application.

Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto sponsored the bill renewing the 25-year TV5 Network franchise.

Poe thanked TV5 for its significant contributions in the field of news, public affairs and sports.

Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri described TV5 as the No. 1 sports channel in the country.

The National Telecommunications Commission, the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas also supported the renewal.

Chot Reyes, TV5 Network Inc. president, thanked the senators and vowed that the network would continue to serve the public.

“We have a very strong news department, news and public affairs department. We are also very strong in the sports category, being able to deliver a lot of sports content to the Filipino audience,” Reyes told the panel.

Anna Bengzon, TV5 chief financial officer, said she was gratified by the recognition of lawmakers of the network being No. 1 in sports.

The House of Representatives last December approved on third and final reading the renewal of the TV5 Network Inc. franchise.