Press freedom wins as a court permits the Philippine news site Rappler to continue operating.
The Court of Appeals in the Philippines has ruled in favor of Rappler, a news agency known for its critical reporting on government issues. Rappler, established in 2012 by journalist Maria Ressa, has faced numerous legal challenges, including allegations of foreign ownership restrictions, tax evasion, and cyber libel. The court revoked Rappler's operating license in a recent dispute, arguing it had violated constitutional prohibitions on foreign ownership. The court affirmed Rappler's contention that its funding came from Philippine Depositary Receipts (PDRs), a financial instrument that allows media organizations to raise money without giving up intellectual property. The ruling restores Rappler's operating license and confirms its standing as an accredited news outlet. The ruling is seen as a significant win for press freedom in the Philippines, where journalists have faced increasing harassment and legal disputes during the previous government. The Rappler case serves as a reminder of the importance of free and independent media in democracies.