Iloilo, Aklan journalists join protest vs RORB
Journalists in Iloilo and Aklan yesterday joined the nationally coordinated protest actions against the Right of Reply Bill (RORB).
In Iloilo, journalists led by the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) wore white ribbons symbolizing press freedom. Calls for the scrapping of the RORB were also released in news papers and radio stations.
Journalists in Aklan led by the Aklan Press Club and NUJP launched a signature campaign against the bill.
House Bill 3306 which requires journalists and media outlets to air or print the reply of those subjected to reports or commentaries is scheduled for third and final reading at the House. Its counterpart bill in the Senate was approved last year.
The bill provides for fines and imprisonment of up to 30 days for non-compliance.
The media groups see the RORB as an intrusion on the editorial independence of the media especially on the contents of newspapers and broadcast programs.
Several senators who voted for the bill have withdrawn their support after media organizations, including the biggest television networks and newspapers raised an outcry against the bill
Congressmen have also expressed opposition against the measure.
Antique Rep. Exequiel Javier yesterday said is opposed to the proposed measure.
Javier said that if the bill is approved, it will have a “chilling effect” on press freedom.
“TV and radio broadcasters and commentators will think twice before they report or comment on conduct of public officials or public figures since the reply will entail additional cost which will burden the publisher or owner of TV or radio stations,” Javier said.
Another lawmaker, Iloilo Rep. Niel Tupas Jr., said he will vote against the bill.
“It contains provisions violative of the Constitution and established doctrines like press freedom, freedom of expression and freedom from prior restraint,” Tupas said in a text message.