Congressman Madrona of Romblon voted vs. ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal
Congressman Elandro Jesus “Budoy” Madrona of Romblon is running for reelection as the representative of the province’s lone district. Madrona is running under the administration-allied Nacionalista Party. His main challenger is Joey Venancio of Aksyon Demokratiko.
Back in July 2020, Madrona voted to deny broadcast giant ABS-CBN’s application for a new franchise together with 69 other allies of President Rodrigo Duterte in the House of Representatives.
In an interview with Romblon News Network a day after voting against ABS-CBN, Madrona claimed that the network is not entitled to a franchise renewal. “As proven during our several hearings, ABS CBN blatantly violated the terms and conditions of their franchise, hence, to me, they are not anymore entitled to renewal,” Madrona said.
It is not clear though what violations Madrona was talking about because multiple government agencies including the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Department of Labor and Employment, and the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Over the years, the province’s tourism industry has greatly benefited by getting mileage through the network’s various shows – including Korina Sanchez’ “Rated K” and and in the late Gina Lopez’ “G Diaries.” Romblon was also at the cornerstone of Bantay Kalikasan’s pro-environment advocacy.
As an elected representatives of Romblomanons, it is uncertain if Madrona consulted his constituents over the issue or if he simply chose to cower in the face of pressure from Duterte and House leaders.
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