QUESTION:
Would it be appropriate for a broadcasting company to say “follow us” on a particular social networking site?
DEFINITION:
First, let us define the following terms as provided in the Intellectual Property Code:
BROADCASTING ORGANIZATION – shall include a natural person or a juridical entity duly authorized to engage in broadcasting. (Sec. 202.8)
BROADCASTING – means the transmission by wireless means for the public reception of sounds or of images or of representations thereof; such transmission by satellite is also “broadcasting” where the means for decrypting are provided to the public by the broadcasting organization or with its consent.
(Sec. 202.7)
COMMENT:
Broadcasting is a way of spreading out information. It is also a mean of obtaining public opinion on a particular matter. Broadcasting company must choose a topic for discussion/ reaction/comment that will not create controversies. They must consider the effect of their subject matters especially to young generation. And also, they must be aware of their duties and responsibilities to limit the distribution of information so as not to injure anybody, corrupt people’s mind or be misinterpreted by others.
Generally speaking, encouraging the public to follow them (broadcasting company) in a particular social networking site may be considered legal for there is no provision in the law prohibiting such act but limitation must be set.
