Philippines journalist and outspoken Duterte critic found guilty of cyber libel in a major blow to the country's press freedom
Ressa has denied the charges and said they were aimed at silencing critics of the Duterte administration.The Times last weekInternational rights groups have spoken out against the guilty verdict and have said that the move is aimed at shutting down criticism of the Duterte government.
"Today's conviction and sentencing of Maria Ressa of up to six years in jail is an outrageous crime against press freedom," Shawn Crispin, the Committee to Protect Journalism's senior Southeast Asia representative,"Although out on bail while she appeals the verdict, Ressa's wrongful conviction sends a message to all journalists that you could be next if you report critically on President Rodrigo Duterte's government.
"While Maria may be sent to prison, Filipinos find themselves increasingly imprisoned in a nation without access to fundamental rights," the statement said. "Maria has inspired so many with her courage and integrity," the statement added. "Now with this unjust ruling, even more people will take note of her vigorous dedication to and defense of those values. President Duterte has sought to have her silenced and sidelined. Instead, he has brought a brighter light and broader support to her cause."
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‘A Thousand Cuts’ Subject And Filipino Journalist Maria Ressa Found Guilty Of LibelMaria Ressa, a Filipino journalist and subject of Ramona S. Diaz’s documentary A Thousand Cuts, has been found guilty of cyber libel by a court in the Philippines. Ressa, the CEO/Founder of t…
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