Luke Allen – Military Political Analyst – Makati, Manila – lukeallenmanila@journlist.com
Manila, Philippines — In a landmark decision, the Philippine Court of Appeals (CA) has blocked the government’s attempts to shut down Rappler, a prominent news outlet known for its critical stance against former President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial drug war. The court ordered the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to restore Rappler’s license, a move hailed as a victory for press freedom and democratic principles.
Rappler, co-founded by Nobel laureate Maria Ressa, has been a vocal critic of Duterte’s administration, mainly its aggressive anti-drug campaign that has resulted in thousands of deaths, and the SEC had previously revoked Rappler’s certificate of incorporation, citing violations of foreign ownership regulations. However, the CA found that the SEC had acted with “grave abuse of discretion” and exhibited “willful defiance” of the Constitution in its decision to shut down the media outlet.
The court’s ruling emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional rights and protecting the freedom of the press. In its decision, the CA stated, “The SEC’s actions were not only a blatant overreach of authority but also a direct attack on the fundamental freedoms enshrined in our constitution.”
Maria Ressa, who has faced numerous legal challenges and attacks on her credibility, welcomed the court’s decision. “This ruling is not just a win for Rappler but for all Filipino journalists who continue to uphold the truth despite immense pressure and threats,” she said. “It is a reaffirmation that justice and democracy can prevail even in the face of adversity.”
The court’s decision has been met with widespread approval from local and international human rights organizations, underscoring its global impact. This decision is not just a crucial step in protecting press freedom in the Philippines but a significant victory for the global movement for human rights. Amnesty International released a statement praising the ruling, calling it “a significant blow against the suppression of independent media and a crucial victory for human rights in the Philippines.”
However, the ruling may not end Rappler’s legal battles. The Duterte administration’s successor has yet to indicate whether it will respect the court’s decision or pursue further legal action. As the country continues to navigate its complex political landscape, Rappler’s fate remains a litmus test for the resilience of democratic institutions in the Philippines. This ongoing struggle underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for continued vigilance in defending press freedom.
For now, Rappler remains operational, continuing its mission to deliver fearless journalism and hold those in power accountable. The court’s decision serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of Rappler and the determination of its team. It inspires us that the fight for press freedom is far from over but that justice can prevail when the principles of democracy are upheld.
