"This is not about press freedom. This is about irresponsible journalism"
One of the Philippines’ most prominent journalists, Maria Ressa, has been found guilty of cyber libel charges, a verdict that could lead to six years in prison and is likely to be viewed as a major set back for democratic rights in the country.
Rappler's Maria Ressa said her conviction of cyber libel is a “pivotal moment” for democracy and a free press.
It's sad and devastating that a mere correction from what was published years ago has led to a legal detention of about 6 years.
However, it's the independent court that has released this decision and it alone can comprehend and interpret better the ambiguities of Anti Cyber Crime Law.
Let this situation set the mood to all who post online that we must be careful and responsible of our contents because people today are aggressive to maintain their reputation they built over the years.
Is this is an atrocious, appalling decision?. A very sad day for the state of jounrnalism in the Philippines and freedom of the press around the world?
The judge said Rappler offered no proof to back up its allegations against Mr Keng's human trafficking, drug smuggling, involvement in a murder case, smuggling of fake cigarettes, and illegal transaction of granting special investors residence visas to Chinese nationals.
Mr. Keng pleaded to Rappler to publish a clarificatory article at the very least, to air his side of the story. But Rappler did not.
Too bad. Too late. Tsk, tsk.
If only Rappler adhered to accuracy, fairness and balance in terms of reporting, they could have RETRACTED FALSITY to their previous article about Mr. Keng. It would have been that simple to close the case.
If the present generation of Filipinos choose silence against Duterte's actions, what kind of example are they showing the young Filipinos?
Submission to tyranny? Cowardice towards a govt that tramples upon one's constitutional freedom of speech and press?
“First, they silenced the press. Then we don’t know what happens next”
It seems this government is too scared of strong women who speaks the truth and knows how to fight for her freedom. Our freedom.
A scandalous threat to press freedom. “The court has become complicit in a sinister action to silence a journalist for exposing corruption and abuse.”
If you’re STILL not furious at this point I honestly have no words for you.
No comments:
Post a Comment