Censorship of sites for alleged communist ties 'deeply concerning', rights groups say

In this Feb. 26, 2018 photo, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. speaks at the Senate hearing on Benham Rise following reports of a Chinese entity conducting marine scientific research in the area. In a press conference Wednesday, Esperon admitted that he considers the influx of Chinese nationals in the country as a threat.

The STAR / Mong Pintolo, File photo

MANILA, Philippines — Rights groups on Wednesday raised concerns over the National Security Council's move to block public access to dozens of websites allegedly linked to communist rebels, calling it an attack on freedom of information and of expression.

The Palace stood by the online censorhip saying news organizations like Bulatlat and Pinoy Weekly that were included in the list can seek legal remedies. It did not say what these remedies were.

Rights group Amnesty International called the blocking "a blatant attack on freedom of information and expression" adding it is "deeply concerning" that this is being done as a new administration is set to take office. 

Full Story: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2022/06/22/2190184/censorship-sites-alleged-communist-ties-deeply-concerning-rights-groups-say