The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines condemns the filing of criminal charges against one of its directors, Marchel Espina.

A local leader of a religious group slapped Espina and several others with unjust vexation over an opinion piece published by Sunstar Cebu in December 2024. At the time of the incident, Espina was the editor-in-chief of the said media outfit.

Espina was not afforded due process as she only learned about the warrant of arrest issued by a Batangas court two days ago. Espina, who is based in Bacolod City, had not been notified of the complaint, and was not able to file a counter affidavit.

The filing of charges against Espina is clearly meant to intimidate her and the media community. This is not the first time that leaders of the said religious group filed charges against journalists expressing critical views on the religious group’s ties with an influential political dynasty. Any group or individual engaging in obvious political activities should not be onion-skinned when subjected to public scrutiny. Journalists report on matters of public interest, including supposed religious activities in support of certain politicians.

The filing of criminal charges against truth-tellers has been a weapon of choice by the powers that be. It is an indication of the rottenness of the justice system and the impunity that continues to undermine our so-called democracy.

The NUJP calls for the junking of the charges against Espina.

Reference:
NUJP National Directorate
secretariat@nujp.org