MANILA -- ABS-CBN Corp. on Wednesday welcomed the approval of House Bill 6732 by the House of Representatives Committee of the Whole granting the country's largest network a 6-month provisional franchise to operate.

In a statement following the approval of HB 6732 on second reading via viva voce voting, ABS-CBN thanked the sponsors of the bill led by House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano and House Majority Leader Martin Romualdez "for recognizing the role we play in providing for the needs of the people in terms of access to news, information, entertainment, and public service at this crucial time."

ABS-CBN had been broadcasting news and information about the coronavirus disease 2019 or COVID-19 pandemic via free television and radio before it was ordered shut by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) after its franchise expired on May 4.

The company also said it was looking "forward to participating in the process of our franchise renewal and stand[s] ready to respond to the issues that have been raised against the network, its owners, management and employees."

Among the issues raised are alleged violations of labor laws and the constitution, election bias, tax liabilities, and foreign ownership.

ABS-CBN said it remains "open to opinions and constructive suggestions on how to improve the organization and better serve the Filipino people."

It also thanked the various individuals and groups "who have expressed their love and support," saying "You inspire us."

HB 6732 still has to be approved on 3rd and final reading before it is sent to the Senate where senators have committed to supporting the measure.

ABS-CBN Corp. last Thursday asked the Supreme Court for a temporary restraining order to stop the implementation of the cease and desist order (CDO) issued by the NTC.

“The public needs the services of ABS-CBN now more than ever, as the country grapples with the effects of COVID-19. In this time of public health emergency, ABS-CBN plays a significant role in providing continued employment to thousands of employees and delivering valuable information and entertainment to millions of Filipinos locked down in their homes,” ABS-CBN said in its petition.

The 46-page petition for certiorari and prohibition also asked the high court to set aside the CDO and declare a permanent injunction against its implementation.