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May 13, 2007
TRO vs GMA7's Imbestigador
is a clear case of prior restraint
Quezon City, 13 May 2007
The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines greets with concern
the temporary restraining order handed down by a Lanao del Norte trial
court against the showing of an episode of GMA 7's Imbestigador on political
dynasties.
The NUJP believes this is a clear case of prior restraint, which is patently unconstitutional since it infringes on press freedom and freedom of expression.
According to the network, the TRO was issued on a motion filed by the Dimaporo clan, one of the families featured in the episode.
We do not dispute the Dimaporo family's right to seek redress if they
feel the episode is unfair to them. But we assert that any redress they
seek should be after the fact and should not involve preventing the airing
of an episode that very clearly touches on an issue of public interest.
Imbestigador host Mike Enriquez' says they tried to get the Dimaporos'
side on the issue -- as journalistic ethics and the spirit of fair play
demand -- but that the family members declined to be interviewed. Knowing
Mr. Enriquez' long record as a respected and popular broadcaster, we see
no reason to doubt his assertion.
We know too well that this is a ploy often resorted to by public officials and figures who wish to evade controversy. It should not be used as an excuse to cry foul over unfair reportage or to prevent the airing or publication of a potentially damaging report.
The NUJP therefore wishes to call the attention of the Department of Justice and the Supreme Court to act quickly and put an end to this patently unconstitutional act of prior restraint.
References:
Jose Torres Jr., NUJP chairperson
Rowena Paraan, secretary-general
(for other reports, go here.)