Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima is considering filing a bill to decriminalize libel and cyberlibel, citing concerns that these laws are being used to suppress press freedom and weaken democracy.
De Lima said powerful and influential personalities often use libel and cyberlibel complaints to attack or silence journalists and media organizations.
While acknowledging the importance of holding people accountable for abuses of press freedom, she argued that using these laws to deprive journalists of their rights is excessive and unacceptable.
The congresswoman also challenged those who file libel and cyberlibel cases to intimidate journalists, saying the public can distinguish between individuals who spread fake news and legitimate media practitioners committed to truth and accountability.
Her proposal comes amid legal actions involving members of the media.
Earlier, the House prosecution panel condemned the arrest of veteran journalist Philip Lustre Jr. and the filing of cases against several broadcasters and executives of GMA Network.
The developments have renewed attention to the relationship between libel laws and press freedom in the Philippines.
De Lima is still studying the proposed legislation. Details about the bill’s specific provisions and when it might be filed have not been provided.
The proposal seeks to address concerns over the potential use of criminal complaints to silence journalists while recognizing the importance of accountability for defamatory statements.
