THE CAPAMPANGAN In Media Inc. (CAMI) expresses grave concern over the arrest of its member, veteran journalist Philip Lustre, in Quezon City on Oct. 24, following a regular kapihan session.
According to the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP), Lustre was arrested over a cyber libel complaint filed by an unidentified complainant in Davao. His lawyer, Atty. Dino De Leon, said Lustre was unaware of any complaint against him.
CAMI demands due process, transparency, and full respect for Lustre’s rights.
No one should be deprived of liberty without the safeguards guaranteed by law. While journalists are accountable under the law, legal processes must never become instruments of intimidation or undermine press freedom.
We support Lustre’s efforts to challenge his arrest and urge the authorities to ensure fair proceedings, protect his rights, and consider humanitarian grounds given his status as a senior citizen.
An attack on a journalist’s liberty concerns the entire media community. CAMI stands with Philip Lustre and will not remain silent when press freedom and due process are at stake.
