NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
NUJP Stands In Solidarity With Atom Araullo's Civil Suit Against Red-Taggers Lorraine Badoy-Partosa And Jeffrey Celiz
Photo credit: NUJP
The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) has expressed its support for journalist Atom Araullo as he takes legal action by filing a P2-million civil suit against red-taggers Lorraine Badoy-Partosa and Jeffrey Celiz.
Araullo's legal action aims to hold those responsible for defamatory statements accountable, sending a clear message that journalists will not tolerate the dangers of red-tagging.
Red-tagging, a practice that labels individuals as "communist-terrorists" or "communist propagandists" without evidence, poses threats to the safety, security, and mental well-being of those accused unjustly. NUJP, along with like-minded media organizations, has condemned these tactics, which are often used to justify arrests, charges, surveillance, and harassment against human rights defenders, including journalists.
The consequences of red-tagging are significant. Some journalists have been forced to relocate, disrupting their work and the communities they serve. An example of this abuse of power is the case of Frenchie Mae Cumpio, a red-tagged journalist who remains incarcerated on charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives, as well as financing terrorism.
Araullo's legal complaint adds to the actions taken by journalists seeking accountability for those who spread falsehoods and endanger their lives. Independent media outlets Altermidya, Bulatlat, Kodao, and Pinoy Weekly, along with Rappler CEO Maria Ressa, have previously filed administrative charges against Lorraine Badoy-Partosa, with these complaints currently under review at the Office of the Ombudsman.
Journalist Cong Corrales from Cagayan de Oro also initiated a petition earlier this year before the Data Privacy Commission, aimed at revealing the identities of anonymous Facebook accounts that have targeted him repeatedly.
NUJP notes that, under the current Marcos Jr. administration, there have been 19 recorded incidents of red-tagging. The organization itself, along with some of its officers, has faced relentless red-tagging for their defense of press freedom and free expression.
NUJP calls on the media community and the public to stand in solidarity with their red-tagged colleagues and to reject the narrative perpetuated by Badoy-Partosa, Celiz, and their associates. The union insists that this harmful practice must end, emphasizing the need for red-taggers to be held accountable under the law.
Araullo's legal action aims to hold those responsible for defamatory statements accountable, sending a clear message that journalists will not tolerate the dangers of red-tagging.
Red-tagging, a practice that labels individuals as "communist-terrorists" or "communist propagandists" without evidence, poses threats to the safety, security, and mental well-being of those accused unjustly. NUJP, along with like-minded media organizations, has condemned these tactics, which are often used to justify arrests, charges, surveillance, and harassment against human rights defenders, including journalists.
The consequences of red-tagging are significant. Some journalists have been forced to relocate, disrupting their work and the communities they serve. An example of this abuse of power is the case of Frenchie Mae Cumpio, a red-tagged journalist who remains incarcerated on charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives, as well as financing terrorism.
Araullo's legal complaint adds to the actions taken by journalists seeking accountability for those who spread falsehoods and endanger their lives. Independent media outlets Altermidya, Bulatlat, Kodao, and Pinoy Weekly, along with Rappler CEO Maria Ressa, have previously filed administrative charges against Lorraine Badoy-Partosa, with these complaints currently under review at the Office of the Ombudsman.
Journalist Cong Corrales from Cagayan de Oro also initiated a petition earlier this year before the Data Privacy Commission, aimed at revealing the identities of anonymous Facebook accounts that have targeted him repeatedly.
NUJP notes that, under the current Marcos Jr. administration, there have been 19 recorded incidents of red-tagging. The organization itself, along with some of its officers, has faced relentless red-tagging for their defense of press freedom and free expression.
NUJP calls on the media community and the public to stand in solidarity with their red-tagged colleagues and to reject the narrative perpetuated by Badoy-Partosa, Celiz, and their associates. The union insists that this harmful practice must end, emphasizing the need for red-taggers to be held accountable under the law.
Sep 11, 2023
