In an effort to modernize the country’s government broadcasting network and enhancing public information management, Quezon City Representative Alfred Vargas filed House Bill 2143 or the People’s Broadcasting Corporation Charter bill.
“It’s high time the Philippines operates a high-standard, internationally competitive government station like BBC of Great Britain, PBS of the United States of America, or Al Jazeera of Qatar,” said Vargas.
“To realize this, a more comprehensive charter should be in place,” he stressed.
The bill seeks the creation of the People’s Broadcasting Corporation (PBC). The PBC shall engage in radio and television broadcasting. It aims to foster national pride and identity by serving as a vehicle for the State for purposes of education, information, entertainment, science and technology, arts, culture, and sports. The PBC also intends to enhance the people’s awareness of the government’s programs, policies, thrusts, and directions.
The proposed charter also asserts the independence of the PBC. It shall be autonomous in all matters concerning the form and substance of its contents, and the management of its affairs.
Under the bill, the PBC shall have its principal office in the Metro Manila Area and shall also establish secondary broadcast hubs in Visayas and Mindanao.
Financial provisions of the bill include annual appropriations for PBC for at least 10 years and a mandate to generate funds from advertising and airtime sales.
“To attain the ambitions of the envisioned PBC, proper funding and revenue-generating mechanisms should be in place,” Vargas added.
The bill directs that the human resources administration of PBC shall be consistent with the provisions of the Civil Service law, rules and regulations.
“In terms of talent and capability, the Filipino People will never fall short of this. We just need to provide a proper platform for them,” said the solon.
If enacted, the PBC Charter will repeal Republic Act No. 7306, which created the People’s Television Network, Inc. The Bureau of Broadcast Services shall also be absorbed by the PBC.
“The realization of the PBC will provide the Filipino people with a reliable and competent source of information, thus paving the way for responsible media practice,” Vargas concluded.