Revoking Rappler’s license a “small step to a bigger, darker agenda,” says business journalists

The Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines (EJAP) said that the government’s move to revoke the license to operate of multimedia news outlet Rappler is an act of dishonor to the country’s media that will never be forgotten.

“January 15 will be remembered in Philippine press history in infamy,” EJAP said.

“It is the day that a government built on democratic principles struck a blow on one of the pillars of Asia’s most vibrant democracy: A free press,” it added.

January 15 was the date when the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) released its ruling against Rappler, stating that the online news site violated the Foreign Equity Restriction in Article XVI, Section 11(1) of the Constitution which states, “The ownership and management of mass media shall be limited to citizens of the Philippines, or to corporations, cooperatives or associations, wholly owned and managed by such citizens.”

Joining the move of those who are condemning the SEC’s decision, EJAP said that such ruling is “a small step to a bigger, darker agenda.”

The Philippine business journalists said they will support Rappler, stressing that every freedom-loving Filipino should stand up and be counted.

“We cannot let this pass,” EJAP said.

Despite the Palace’s denial of President Duterte’s involvement in the decision of SEC, Rappler CEO Maria Ressa said she stands by her belief that there is a “war of attrition.”

In an interview with CNN Philippines’ The Source, Ressa said, “What is publicly stated is not what is privately going on behind the scenes.”

(DAILY NEWS ROUND UP FOR 01/ 16 / 18)