NTC orders SMNI to immediately stop operations after failure to comply with suspension
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) on Tuesday, Jan. 23 confirmed the issuance of a new cease and desist order (CDO) against Swara Sug Media Corporation (Swara Sug), known as Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI), following reports of the network's failure to comply with the initial 30-day suspension imposed in December 2023.

According to the NTC, they received reports indicating that SMNI continued broadcasting in certain areas even after the suspension period began as late as Dec. 27, 2023.
This violation led to the issuance of a new order dated Jan. 18, mandating SMNI to stop operating across all its radio and television stations.
The NTC further explained that despite the additional time it gave the network to file its answer to the show cause order within a period of 15 days, whereas per the agency's order by Jan. 15, the network did not file a response, but instead requested clarification on the alleged violations.
Given this, the agency added that this was done to protect the "interest and welfare" of the public from any public utility that may be violating or have violated the conditions of its authorities.
“Respondent should be prevented in the meantime or during the pendency of this case from operating its radio and television stations, especially considering that the Respondent is yet to provide the Commission with any written submission or explanation directly addressing the allegations against it,” the order read.