Defend Press Freedom
Today, June 15, 2020, Rappler CEO Maria Ressa and former researcher Reynaldo Santos Jr. found guilty of cyber libel and sentenced to minimum of six months to six years in jail under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.
In a press conference following the verdict, Ressa said, “it’s not unexpected and at the same time, we will keep fighting. It's a blow to us. It's also not an unexpected considering we are going to stand up against any kind of the attack against the press freedom.”
She also followed up, “I appeal to you, the journalists in this room, the Filipinos who are listening to protect your rights. We are meant to be a cautionary tale. We are meant to make you afraid. I appeal again, don't be afraid.”
In supporting the #DefendPressFreedom people show their thoughts, opinions, and verdict in social media to the case of Ressa and about the oppression of Press Freedom under the Duterte Administration.
People are not surprised nor disappointed hence, this is the chance to fight more and stand back against any kind of attack to the press freedom and against the power of this Administration.
“Sa mga Pilpinong nanunuod, hindi lang ito tungkol sa Rappler, hindi lang ito tungkol sa amin, tungkol po ito sainyo because freedom of the press is the foundation of every single right you have as a Filipino citizen.”
"If we can’t hold power to account, we can’t do anything. If we can’t do our jobs, then your rights will be lost" Ressa added.
Following the verdict, Harry Roque said, “The court decision should be respected.”
Hence, the injustice under Duterte Administration can be really seen over and versus in the case of Imelda Marcos and Mocha Uson.
#DefendPressFreedom
Text by: Novie Nuñez
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