Palace On Maria Ressa’s Latest Arrest: “All Are Equal Before The Law”

Palace Reacts on Maria Ressa’s 7th Arrest

PALACE – The Malacañang Palace said Rappler’s Maria Ressa can’t forever use the press freedom as her defense.

Filipino-American broadcast journalist Maria Ressa is the founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the news website Rappler.

On March 298, the prominent journalist was arrested for the 7th for allegedly violating the Anti-Dummy Law upon arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

Maria Ressa posted bail at the amount of P90,000 at the Pasig City regional trial Court.

Following a previous article, the United States urged the Philippines to let the high-profile journalist ‘operate freely.’

“We hope these charges will be resolved quickly, in a way that fully respects the freedom of expression, allows Ms Ressa and Rappler to continue to operate freely, and is consistent with the Philippines’ tradition of a free and independent press.”

Based on a report from Inquirer, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo gave a statement regarding the arrest of Maria Ressa.

Panelo said she just can’t use the press freedom as a defense each time she gets arrested.

“Instead of fomenting disrespect to the constituted authorities and using her journalistic talent to spread her twisted and pretentious advocacy, she should focus on her defense and be truthful on her present situation”

According to the report, the Palace spokesperson stated that of using it as a defense, she should rather find ways to settle her cases first.

“She cannot forever hide behind the freedom of the press every time she commits what probably is a transgression of law as determined by the investigating prosecutor and the judge handling her case”

“She wants a special treatment owing to her being a journalist. She wants her profession to shield her from accountability of a wrongdoing that she could be guilty of,” he added.

Based on the report, the Palace assured the prominent journalist will be treated fairly if she follows the exact due process.

“All is equal before the law.  It is no respecter of any social and political status. The law does not discriminate.  Everyone subject of an arrest warrant must be given equal treatment as to its service,” said Panelo.

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