In a significant legal victory for journalists in the Philippines, a Philippine appeals court has overturned a 2018 order to close down a prominent news outlet that had been critical of former President Rodrigo Duterte's administration. The decision, made public on Friday, pertains to Rappler, an online news organization founded by a Nobel peace prize co-winner.
The Court of Appeals directed the Securities and Exchange Commission to reinstate Rappler's certificates of incorporation, emphasizing that the previous shutdown order was issued with 'grave abuse of discretion' and violated established legal procedures and the constitution.
Rappler had been accused of violating a constitutional ban on foreign investments in local media by receiving funds through financial papers from a philanthropic organization. The court ruled that the funding did not grant undue control to the organization over Rappler.
Despite facing legal challenges, including a cyber-libel conviction being appealed and a pending case related to the 'Anti-Dummy Law,' Rappler has continued its operations throughout the legal battle.
The Duterte administration has faced criticism for its treatment of journalists and media outlets that have reported critically on issues such as the government's war on drugs and human rights record. The closure of Rappler was seen as part of a broader pattern of crackdowns on press freedom in the country.
Journalists in the Philippines have long faced threats to their safety, with the country being considered one of the most dangerous places for media workers. The brazen attack in 2009 that resulted in the deaths of 32 media workers highlighted the risks faced by journalists, including violence linked to political rivalries and the presence of private armies in rural areas.
While the legal battles continue for Rappler and its founder, Maria Ressa, the court's decision to reverse the shutdown order is seen as a positive development for press freedom in the Philippines.
