Palace to Ressa: It’s not a press freedom issue; face the case

Rappler’s chief executive officer Maria Ressa talks with NBI agents in her office. (Photo by CATHRINE GONZALES / INQUIRER.net)

MANILA, Philippines — Stop calling it a press freedom issue and face the case, Malacañang told Rappler’s chief executive officer Maria Ressa after the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested her on Wednesday over a cyberlibel case.

“The case against Maria Ressa is not based on any violation of press freedom,” presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in an interview over the ABS-CBN News Channel.

“Simply, she committed a crime, and the court finds probable cause. That’s why she is now being charged,” he added. “Regardless of who commits any irregularity or crime, he or she will be charged in accordance with the law.”

“The charge is fact-based and the DOJ prosecutors gave her all the opportunity to defend herself. And it found out there is probable cause and even the court agrees with it,” he added. “I think I’d rather advise Maria Ressa just focus on her defense. Freedom of expression has nothing to do with it.”

Ressa’s lawyer questioned the timing of the issuance of the arrest warrant.

“They are making a fuss about anything they perceive to be wrong,” Panelo said. “You know warrant of arrest can be issued on a weekday. The only prohibition is you issue it on a weekend and that will not give the respondent the opportunity to file a motion for or to file bail. It was issued on a weekday so what’s the complaint?” /atm

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