MANILA, June 15 — The head of a Philippine news website known for its tough scrutiny of President Rodrigo Duterte faces up to six years in jail after being found guilty of cyber libel by a Manila court today in what is being seen as a test case for media freedom in the country. Maria Ressa, chief...
Maria Ressa, Executive Editor and CEO of Philippine news website Rappler, goes through a disinfection booth at the Manila Regional Trial Court, Philippines June 15, 2020. — Reuters pic
MANILA, June 15 — The head of a Philippine news website known for its tough scrutiny of President Rodrigo Duterte faces up to six years in jail after being found guilty of cyber libel by a Manila court today in what is being seen as a test case for media freedom in the country.
After handing down the verdict, Judge Rainelda Estacio-Montesa said freedom of the press could not be used as a “shield.”The cyber libel is among the numerous lawsuits filed against Ressa andRappler's operating license was rescinded in 2018 over alleged foreign ownership violations, and it is also dealing with a case involving alleged tax evasion. Both cases are ongoing.
Media watchdogs have said the charges against Ressa were trumped up and aimed at intimidating those who challenge Duterte's rule, in particular his deadly crackdown on illicit drugs. — Reuters
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