The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) has strongly condemned the filing of criminal charges against one of its directors, veteran journalist Marchel Espina, describing the case as an attempt to intimidate the media and suppress critical reporting.
In a statement released on Friday, July 17, the NUJP said Espina, the former editor-in-chief of SunStar Cebu, was charged with unjust vexation by a local leader of a religious group over an opinion piece published by the news organization in December 2024.
According to the NUJP, Espina was denied due process, saying she only learned of the arrest warrant issued by a Batangas court two days earlier. The organization noted that Espina, who is based in Bacolod City, was never informed of the complaint and was therefore unable to submit a counter-affidavit.
"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 NUJP said.
The media organization argued that the charges were intended to silence Espina and send a chilling message to journalists covering issues involving influential groups and political figures.
"The filing of charges against Espina is clearly meant to intimidate her and the media community," the NUJP stated.
The union also pointed out that this was not the first instance in which leaders of the same religious group had initiated legal action against journalists who published critical views regarding the group's alleged political ties with an influential political dynasty.
The NUJP stressed that individuals and organizations engaged in political activities should expect public scrutiny and should not retaliate against journalists performing their duty.
"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 statement read.
The organization further criticized what it described as the growing use of criminal complaints to silence journalists and whistleblowers, calling it a reflection of systemic problems within the country's justice system.
"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 said.
The NUJP concluded its statement by calling on authorities to dismiss the charges filed against Espina, reiterating its support for press freedom and the protection of journalists from legal harassment.
"The NUJP calls for the junking of the charges against Espina."
