GMA Network responds to KBP
broadcast code proposal

What follows is a statement from GMA Network, Inc. (Channel 7) in response to a query from the PCIJ about the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas‘ proposal to craft a Broadcast Code that will bind all radio and television agencies in the country. GMA-7 withdrew its membership from the KBP in September 2003 after a tiff over commercial loading limits set by the association. Angela H. Javier-Cruz of GMA-7 mailed this statement to PCIJ.

GMA Network position on the KBP’s proposal for a broadcast code

The network’s position is the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), as a trade organization like the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Makati Business Club, etc., should be promoting/advocating the common interest of its members and should leave the regulation of the operations of its members to the government agencies that are statutorily authorized to regulate the pertinent aspects of its members’ operations (e.g. NTC, MTRCB, etc.).

The KBP was created and established during Martial Law for the regime to indirectly control broadcast media in the guise of self-regulation. It is of common knowledge that the key and influential officers of the KBP at that time were those nominated and/or installed by the regime.

GMA Network left the KBP in September 2003 after it determined that it was being discriminated against by the unequal application of the rules by KBP.

After the Manila Peninsula incident the broadcast media members and the DILG/ PNP reached an understanding on how media should cover crisis situations, including hostage taking.

The real and effective self-regulation is when each broadcast media operator applies its own code of ethics and existing applicable laws and regulations. Outside of such real self-regulation, by the broadcast company itself, the other regulation that would be effective will be the enforcement / application of existing laws and regulations by the entities authorized by law to do so.