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 that there is a balance among rights—not treat them as competing values.

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expresses grave concern on the move of the National Telecommunications Commission, based on the request of the National Security Council, to block access to the websites of organisations designated by the Anti-Terrorism Council, as well as those said to be affiliates who also have alleged links to terrorists and terrorist organisations.

We caution against censorship or any move similar to it, which harms press freedom and results in a chilling effect that attempts to deter free speech and liberty of association under a democracy.

It is thus similarly concerning that the Security and Exchange Commission issued a decision to revoke the operating license of the news organisation Rappler and order its shutdown.

CHR, as the country’s independent national human rights institution, continues to stress the importance of the people’s right to information and to free speech, expression, and association. As long as an individual’s exercise of right is not in violation of the law or the rights of others, any form of curtailment is undue and unjust.

Democracy thrives on the free exchange of ideas, including dissent and opposing opinions, that allows everyone to participate in shaping laws and policies for the general welfare of the people.

We call for the government’s commitment, across its institutions, to respect and uphold human rights as enshrined in our Constitution and international human rights standards. Silencing criticism and dissent only detracts from our shared goal of nation-building.

We reiterate that under a democracy the goal is to balance the respect, promotion, and fulfilment of the rights of all. Let us take part in healthy and responsive discourse with citizens across diverse sectors, as the right to truth—like the ostensible mission of journalism—must always be rooted in accountability, integrity, and objectivity. ###