Statement of the Commission on Human Rights on the acquittal of tax evasion charges against Nobel laureate Maria Ressa
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) welcomes the decision of the Court of Tax Appeal’s (CTA) to acquit Nobel laureate and journalist Maria Ressa and Rappler Holding Corporation (RHC) of four tax evasion charges. The case, filed by Department of Justice (DOJ) in 2018 under the previous administration, accused Ressa and RHC of failing to […]
Statement of CHR Executive Director, Atty Jacqueline Ann de Guia, on NTC’s order to internet service providers to block websites allegedly affiliated to terrorist organisations and closure order of the Securities and Exchange Commission to Rappler
Addressing terrorism and preventing the spread of disinformation both uphold human rights. A safe environment enables a dignified life. At the same time, access to accurate information allows people to make informed decisions and participate in different affairs, including governance. In this regard, the role of the government, as the prime duty-holder, is to ensure […]
Statement of the Commission on Human Rights on the court’s guilty verdict on the cyber libel case against Maria Ressa
A free press and the people’s right to expression, especially on matters of public interest, are crucial foundations of a democratic society. They allow us to demand for transparency and accountability. These freedoms allow greater, genuine participation in governance and other aspects of public life. It is with serious concern that the Commission on Human […]
Statement of CHR spokesperson, Atty. Jacqueline Ann de Guia, on the arrest of Rappler CEO Maria Ressa
The Commission on Human Rights agrees that, in all cases, the rule of law must prevail. It is these same laws that ensure that each and every right is upheld and protected. As there are questions on the arrest of Rappler chief executive officer Maria Ressa, we urge the government to ensure Constitutional guarantees, including […]
Statement of the Commission on Human Rights on upholding press freedom in the country
PRESS STATEMENT | 18 January 2018 Freedoms of information, speech, and expression are marks of a healthy, functioning democracy. The media, for its part, has always played a crucial role in enabling these rights, as well as in propagating truthful insights and, when needed, speaking truth to power. The Commission on Human Rights then stresses the […]