Human Rights Online Philippines

[Statement] A win for journalists and the rule of law

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines welcomes the acquittal of Maria Ressa and Rappler Holdings Corp. at the Court of Tax Appeals.

The cases against Maria and Rappler illustrate the increasing use of the law for reprisal against and for intimidation against journalists and civil society.

We congratulate Maria and Rappler for this legal victory and for their resoluteness and perseverance in the face of the cases.

While colleagues similarly face legal challenges — from libel to made-up terrorism charges — in relation to their work, we take inspiration from this acquittal that if we stand up and hold the line, we can win.

Reference:
National Directorate | +639602784263

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