The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) applauds the Bacolod City Regional Trial Court Branch 53’s decision to acquit journalist Erwin “Ambo” Delilan, formerly of SunStar-Bacolod, after nearly two decades of legal proceedings.
The court determined the prosecution failed to prove libel charges beyond a reasonable doubt, charges that arose in 2005. Delilan’s reporting on a dispute cited official complaints without additional commentary or malicious intent. This action was deemed to be within the realm of responsible journalism and protected by the constitutional freedom of the press.
“This ruling underscores a fundamental tenet of press freedom: journalists should not be penalized for reporting matters of public interest in good faith and without actual malice,” said Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr., executive director of PTFOMS. “The law clearly demands a higher standard of proof in libel cases involving public figures.”
“Mr. Delilan’s acquittal is a personal victory and a reaffirmation of the vital role the press plays in a democratic society,” said Torres. “We commend the court’s decision and reiterate our strong commitment to safeguarding journalists from harassment, intimidation, and prolonged legal battles meant to stifle critical reporting.”
PTFOMS is committed to institutionalizing reforms to prevent the misuse of libel laws against the media and stands ready to support media practitioners in their pursuit of safe, ethical, and fearless journalism. Earlier this week, PTFOMS praised the establishment by the Philippine Press Institute of Media-Citizen Councils as “platforms for dialogue, oversight, and mutual understanding.”
The Media-Citizen Council is a multi-sectoral, community-based, and independent group that aims to resolve conflicts between and among media and those who complain about inaccuracies in news reports
via mediation through Appropriate Dispute Resolution.
It works on the framework of the Philippine Initiative under the Philippine Plan of Action for the Safety of Journalists and on the framework of independent media self/co-regulation, media accountability and safety, ethical and responsible journalism, good journalism as a public good, and strategic engagements with various sectors in the community, including the local government units, government agencies, and law enforcers.# (PTFOMS)
