Tulfo backs decriminalization of libel, but only for 'legit' journalists

MANILA, Philippines — Tensions rose at a hearing of the Senate Public Information and Mass Media panel on Monday when Sen. Raffy Tulfo, himself a former broadcaster, brought up his earlier campaign and said he is now considering retaining libel as a crime for extortionists pretending to be journalists.

The hearing was on measures to prevent the spread of disinformation and misinformation but touched on libel as representatives of press groups raised the issue.

The call to decriminalize libel is decades old and press freedom and freedom of expression advocates have long pointed out that libel and cyberliber are commonly used to silence criticism and dissent. 

Full Story: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2022/11/28/2227054/tulfo-backs-decriminalization-libel-only-legit-journalists