Photo courtesy from Rappler

In a major twist that’s shaking up the media landscape, the Court of Appeals (CA) has officially voided the 2018 shutdown order against Rappler, a move that was handed down during the Duterte administration by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This latest ruling marks a significant victory for the news outlet, as the CA has not only reversed the shutdown but also restored Rappler's certificate of incorporation.

Back in 2018, the SEC claimed that Rappler was in violation of the Constitution, which mandates that media entities in the Philippines must be 100% Filipino-owned. This led to a highly controversial order to shut down Rappler, a decision that sparked debates and protests, particularly among those advocating for press freedom.

Fast forward to 2024, and the tides have turned. The CA’s ruling emphasizes that Rappler Holdings, and by extension, Rappler itself, is now fully owned and managed by Filipinos, in full compliance with the constitutional mandate. This decision effectively clears the way for Rappler to continue its operations without the looming threat of closure that’s hung over it for the past six years.

For Rappler, this isn’t just a legal win; it’s a vindication. The outlet, known for its fearless journalism and critical stance on various political issues, has weathered numerous storms, and this ruling gives it a renewed lease on life. It also sends a powerful message about the resilience of the press and the importance of media independence in the Philippines.