CaTV group rejects foreign investment

The Federation of International Cable TV Association of the Philippines (FICAP), composed of 800 small-scale cable TV operators operating in rural areas, maintained that cable TV is a form of mass media and should be 100 percent Filipino-owned as mandated by the Constitution.

FICAP was reacting to "subtle reports" that another group of cable TV operators, the Philippine Cable Television Association (PCTA), still has the "lingering desire to allow the entry of their foreign partners in the industry."

The 11th Congress rejected the cable bill or Senate Bill 2112 that sought to allow foreign investments in the local cable TV industry.

In a statement, FICAP chairperson Estrellita Juliano-Tamano aired apprehension that the controversial bill may be refiled in the 12th Congress, noting a series of statements criticizing the constitutional provision requiring 100-percent Filipino ownership of mass-media companies.

In the event that the bill is revived in the current Congress, Tamano said, "The 800 small-scale cable TV operators will again mount a concerted campaign to oppose the passage of the measure."

She added: "It is dangerous to allow ownership of cable TV by foreigners because the programs, as a form of mass media, are susceptible to manipulation to serve foreign interests to the detriment of Filipinos."

She recalled that the National Press Club affirmed last year the stand of FICAP that cable TV is a form of mass media.

Meanwhile, FICAP lauded "the present trend of development in the cable TV industry, particularly the convergence of technologies being espoused by the National Telecommunications Commission" under Commissioner Eliseo Rio.

"Policies and programs like this facilitate rural development and serve the interest of the man on the street," FICAP said.