SolGen recommends acquittal of Ressa, researcher over libel chargePhilippine journalist Maria Ressa (C) speaks during a press conference after attending the court's verdict promulgation in Manila on June 15, 2020. Ressa was convicted on June 15 of cyber libel and sentenced to prison in a case that watchdogs say marks a dangerous erosion of press freedom under President Rodrigo Duterte. In a statement on Tuesday, March 10, the SolGen said the criminal charges against Ressa and Santos were filed beyond the legal time limit. “On this basis, the OSG sought to apply the Causing ruling to the case of Ressa and Santos,” it added. However, the SolGen clarified that its recommendation does not mean cyber libel is protected speech.

Source: Philippine Star March 10, 2026 11:53 UTC