Paawa to the Max! DFA Sec Locsin tells Ressa: Appeal your case in higher court not in Social Media

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr. a veteran journalist himself has given the Rappler editor and American citizen Maria Ressa to make the necessary legal step as provided by Philippine laws.

Locsin told Ressa to just appeal her conviction from cyber libel to the next higher court instead of playing victim on social media.

In an exclusive interview with ANC’s Headstart hosted by Karen Davila, the DFA chief said the rule of law must prevail in Ressa’s case.

DFA Secretary Teddy Boy Locsin Jr. and Maria Ressa
(photo credit to owner)

“After her conviction by the lower court, she should appeal immediately to the upper court and not, please, appeal to social media and the like-minded there. Because this is a matter of law,” he said.

Locsin shared in the interview that Ressa refused to defend herself during the trial of her case, instead other Rappler executives and employees took the stand.

“It’s the duty of a judge to render a decision on the basis of evidence presented to her, and that evidence was only presented by the prosecutor and Mr. Keng,” he said.

Davila asked if the United States Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim’s statement regarding Ressa’s verdict could be considered an interference by Washington, the DFA Sec. said in the negative.

“No. They’re concerned by the verdict but I think I’ve adequately explained to them that she failed to defend herself,” he said.

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Report from Politiko

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