Senator Padilla calls for abolition of Optical Media Board

Senator Robinhood Padilla appealed for his colleagues' support in passing Senate Bill No. 1654 (SBN 1654), which seeks to abolish the Optical Media Board (OMB).

In his sponsorship speech on Tuesday, Padilla, who chairs the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media, described the move as a necessary step toward modernizing the Philippines’ anti-piracy framework.

He emphasized that as times change, the country’s laws must also adapt to better serve its industries, its workforce, and the nation as a whole.

Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada expressed his gratitude to the OMB for providing a vital lifeline and much-needed support to the entertainment industry during the height of rampant piracy.

In his co-sponsorship speech, Estrada said the agency played a significant role in reviving the film industry and encouraging audiences to return to theaters.

Senator Erwin Tulfo aired support for the bill, asserting that the agency has become obsolete in the face of rapid technological advancements.

Tulfo also echoed Padilla’s sentiments, noting that the move would result in significant government savings.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian assured the secretariat staff of the OMB that the proposed measure seeking to abolish the agency would not render them jobless.

In his co-sponsorship speech on Senate Bill No. 1654, Gatchalian noted that under the bill, the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) is required to absorb the affected staff of the OMB with their current salaries and benefits intact. He added that employees who will be displaced will be entitled to separation pay as mandated by law.

Senator Mark Villar noted that the agency's functions no longer serve the demands of contemporary times.

In co-sponsoring the bill, Villar said SBN 1654 will ensure that the country’s anti-piracy efforts remain effective, relevant and responsive regardless of any technological advances.

-Paraluman News