Media restrictions in Ampatuan trial must be lifted

November 23 Movement

Statement

January 12, 2010

Media restrictions in Ampatuan trial must be lifted

We view with concern the continued refusal by the court presided by Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes to allow live coverage of the Ampatuan trial. We are also concerned about the restrictions imposed by the court and the Philippine National Police on journalists covering the proceedings.

While we respect the view that a trial by publicity can be detrimental to the accused, we fail to see how that can happen in this case. The Ampatuan case is extremely important for the public, the media and the relatives of the victims. The media and the public -- particularly those who live outside Metro Manila and who can only follow the proceedings through the  -- need to know exactly what is going on inside the courtroom.

As though it wasn’t enough to ban live coverage, the court and the PNP have likewise restricted the way journalists cover the trial. They disallowed the use of mobile phones, laptops and recording devices inside the courtroom and have also limited the number of journalists who can get inside. Needless to say, these hamper how journalists perform their tasks.

We concede that the court has to abide by some rules during the course of a trial. But restrictions in the Ampatuan trial are, at best, unreasonable and, at worst, a violation of press freedom and the public’s right to know.

At a time when the Philippine press is under assault like never before, these restrictions are the last thing we need.

November 23 Movement

Reference:

Carlos H. Conde, spokesman

Tel.: +63-9081601997

Email: nov23movement@gmail.com

Twitter: @nov23movement