On gag order vs ABS-CBN

THE GAG order filed against ABS-CBN is yet another blatant attack against press freedom and the people’s right to information.

Solicitor General Jose Calida asked the high court, last February 19, to issue a gag order against ABS-CBN following the Quo Warranto petition filed against the said media network.

Calida reasoned that both parties should be prohibited to discuss the Quo Warranto petition, citing that ABSCBN’s recent releases, particularly the “Quo Warranto Petition laban sa ABS-CBN, ano ang ibig sabihin?” aired last February 14, only aim to gain the public’s sympathy and support.

This desperate move from Calida and Duterte is another method to silence critics and dissenters. Since the start of Duterte regime’s “iron fist,” the media has been experiencing barrage of attacks including charges against media personnel and media outfits, harassment, vilification, and red-tagging.

The continuous attacks against press freedom are attacks against democracy itself. We are under attack. With the Executive Order 70, or “Whole-of-Nation approach,” in full swing, government agencies and implemented laws have been weaponized and are being used against critics and dissenters, putting the whole country under unproclaimed martial rule. The power of the police and the military have also been further solidified and strengthened resulting to worsening attacks, especially to the poor and the marginalized.

This government has consistently proven its futility. And in consonance to what it has slurred over its constitutional mandate to the Filipinos in multiplex, we unite with the entire Filipino people to battle Duterte regime’s attacks on our fundamental rights as citizens of this country.

The fight for press freedom is not exclusive for journalists. It is likewise the fight of the people for genuine democracy.