Is there a need for reform of Philippine libel laws vis-a-vis Internet defamation?
There are moves from media organizations to decriminalize libel so that it will just be reduced to a civil case. There are also those who want an outright abolition of the libel law. Please read my position paper on decriminalization of libel. How should Philippine courts deal with Internet defamation such as Brian Gorrell’s? The courts should proceed with caution. The country’s political (including the legal) system should support self-regulation in media both old and new (of which the Internet is a major part). While there is likelihood of abuse of freedom being enjoyed in cyberspace (most especially the blogosphere where it is so easy to create, develop and maintain blogs), abusive journalists and bloggers can be dealt with by exposing them for who they are. Simply put, instead of “throwing the book” at them, the “weapon” of responsible journalism can be used against them. Please refer to a PinoyPress article on Brian Gorrell where I served as one of the sources.
