SC urges public to be cautious in expressing views

MANILA, Philippines — The Supreme Court (SC) has urged the public to exercise caution when expressing views on current and social issues and sharing information to avoid facing possible criminal charges.

In its “Legally Speaking” series on Facebook, the high tribunal discussed legal terms such as libel, slander and slander by deed, as well as legal principles that may serve as defenses in cases involving freedom of expression.

These include the “doctrine of fair comment,” which may be invoked as a defense against libel cases filed by public officials or personalities, “privileged communication” and “prior restraint.”

The SC stressed that the Philippines upholds the democratic rights to free speech, freedom of the press and freedom of expression.

“Whether you are a broadcaster, a vlogger, a writer or an ordinary citizen, remember that every right has a corresponding responsibility,” it said.

Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, who is among the contenders for the next chief justice post, has also written SC majority decisions addressing issues involving free speech, emphasizing that the Constitution protects this right.