Cyberlibel, defined as libel committed through a computer system, has increasingly been used not only to address online defamation but, more concerningly, as a tool to intimidate and silence critics, journalists, and human rights defenders.

In the Philippines, cyberlibel became a criminal offense with the passage of the Republic Act No. 10175, otherwise known as “Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012”. The aforesaid law has extended its reach from traditional libel laws into the digital realm, imposing penalties that are one degree higher than those for libel under the Revised Penal Code. The criminalization of cyberlibel has raised significant concerns regarding its impact on freedom of expression and press freedom.

It is apparent that governments can target and attack journalists who criticize its policies. One example is Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa and Rappler—a digital news media company focusing on investigative reporting and public interest journalism. Ressa and Rappler faced relentless harassment and intimidation, ranging from online attacks and public ridicule. Ressa faced a series of civil and criminal cases, including charges of tax evasion and three cyberlibel cases.