Both the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and the Senate leader warned against prior censorship or government restrictions on freedom of expression.

Following the arrest of a content creator for allegedly publishing false information against the president of the Philippines, the CHR urged caution in applying laws affecting freedom of expression.

At the same time, it recalled that sanctioning the veracity of content may constitute prior censorship, constitutionally prohibited by Article Three, Section Four of the 1987 Constitution.

This provision states that “no law that restricts freedom of speech, press or the right of the people to peacefully assemble and petition the government shall be passed”.

ef/abo/mem/asg/liz

.