House panel to probe SMNI over 'fake news' on Speaker's ₱1.8-B travel fund

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 29) — A House of Representatives committee will investigate Sonshine Media Network Inc. (SMNI) over a report it aired alleging that Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has a ₱1.8-billion travel fund.

The motion for an investigation was made by Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong in plenary Tuesday following a privilege speech by Quezon Rep. David Suarez.

The inquiry is set for Nov. 30.

In his speech, Suarez described SMNI's report on Romualdez's alleged travel fund as «fake news.» He called for a legislative inquiry on the matter as part of the House Committee on Legislative Franchises' oversight function.

«Itong ipinalabas ng SMNI, isa itong fake news. Hindi ito totoo. [This report released by SMNI, it's fake news. It's not true.] We demand immediate retraction and apology from those spreading fake lies. Furthermore, we are exploring other options to hold accountable for this smear campaign,» Suarez said.

«In the spirit of transparency and accountability, I humbly request this august chamber to direct the Committee on Legislative Franchises, in the exercise of its inherent oversight function, to investigate this matter immediately,» Suarez said.

While House Secretary General Reginald Velasco did not mention SMNI in his statement, he said the report on Romualdez's ₱1.8-billion travel fund was meant to mislead the public and tarnish the Speaker's reputation, as well as that of the House of Representatives.

The hosts of the media company have red-tagged journalists and human rights activists before.

It is the broadcasting arm of Philippine megachurch leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, who is facing charges in the United States for sex trafficking, fraud, coercion, and bulk cash smuggling.

CNN Philippines is reaching out to SMNI for comment.