In 2019, ABS-CBN began its venture into other industries, outside of media, which may “serve as a cushion” amid uncertainties with its franchise renewal. The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines also launched an online signature campaign for 1 million signatures to urge Congress to extend ABS-CBN’s franchise. He added that charges in violation of the franchise were different from the issuance of a franchise. ABS-CBN’s franchise is set to expire in March. Nine bills seeking to extend ABS-CBN’s franchise have been filed and are pending deliberations at the House of Representatives’ Committee on Legislative Franchises.

Source: Manila Times January 19, 2020 16:07 UTC