Deputy Speaker Rodante Marcoleta grilled ABS-CBN chairman emeritus Gabby Lopez on his allegiance to the Philippines.
During the fourth day of the ABS-CBN franchise hearing, Marcoleta said that Lopez’s service to the Filipinos is not enough evidence to prove his allegiance to the country.
To make the discussion shorter, Marcoleta requested to Lopez to recite the first line of ‘Panatang Makabayan’ or The Patriotic Oath of the Philippines.
“Would you believe sir that after ABS-CBN was granted a franchise of more than 50 years, this Congress has earned its right to know from you personally, are you participating in our political process, how did you pay your taxes, how do you value your oath as a Filipino, eto po ang kailangan Mr. Lopez,” Marcoleta said.
“Ganito na lamang po para siguro matapos tayo sa issue ng allegiance, mawalang galang na po Mr. Lopez, pwede ba naming hilingin sa inyo na i-recite ninyo yung unang linya ng ‘Panatang Makabayan’,” he added.
It can be seen that Lopez couldn’t respond quickly to the challenge of Marcoleta.
While waiting for Lopez’s response, Marcoleta even asked Bayan Muna party-list, Rep. Carlos Zarate, if he wanted to coach the ABS-CBN chairman.
Zarate is one of the lawmakers who pushed for the ABS-CBN franchise.
“Congressman Zarate baka gusto niyo ng tulungan,” Marcoleta said.
However, Zarate didn’t like what Marcoleta said and asked the committee to strike out the comment of the latter.
The two almost clashed, but the committee suspended the session to control the situation.
When the hearing continued, Marcoleta claimed that Lopez recited the first line of ‘Panatang Makabayan’ correctly after being coached by his lawyer.
Marcoleta said that America, Philippines, and other countries required its citizens to give their 100% allegiance to their country.
He then asked Lopez which country will he defend if ever that the Philippines declares war against America.
“I’m a Filipino and I would take the side of the Philippines,” Lopez said.