Media groups ask Remulla to dismiss cases vs detained journalist, 2 rights advocates

Various media groups on Wednesday appealed for the dismissal of the cases against journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio and human rights advocates Mariel Domequil and Alexander Philip Abinguna.

"We trust that the DOJ (Department of Justice) will take swift and just action under your leadership to review and hopefully dismiss the charges against Ms. Cumpio, Ms. Domequil, and Mr. Abinguna," the groups said in a letter to Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla.

The letter was signed by Altermidya Network chairperson Raymund Villanueva, National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) chairperson Jonathan de Santos, and College Editors Guild of the Philippines (CEGP) deputy secretary general John Ray Luciano.

The groups sent the letter to Remulla to mark the fourth year of the journalist and rights advocates' detention, which stemmed from charges related to terrorism financing.

"Their continued detention and the prolonged litigation process underscore the urgency for action," the groups said.

The three were arrested in a police raid in Tacloban City on February 7, 2020 over alleged illegal possession of firearms and for allegedly being members of the New People's Army (NPA).

Meanwhile, the groups also urged Remulla to conduct an impartial and thorough investigation into weaponization of law, the promotion of press freedom, as well for the repeal of repressive laws.

"We stand ready to engage in further dialogue and provide any assistance necessary to facilitate these crucial changes," the groups said. —Joviland Rita/KBK, GMA Integrated News