Business · Philippines Bureau
Ex-Agriculture Chief Fights Cyberlibel Case From State Rice Firm
Former Department of Agriculture chief Leonardo Montemayor has filed a counter to cyberlibel charges brought by a state-run rice distributor, characterizing the legal action as part of a broader effort to silence government critics.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Leonardo Montemayor, who headed the Department of Agriculture during the Arroyo administration until 2022, pushed back against cyberlibel allegations filed by a government-owned rice distribution company, arguing the case represents a troubling pattern of using litigation to suppress dissent.
Montemayor's response comes as he faces legal pressure from the state firm over statements he made publicly. The former agriculture chief contended that the complaint exemplifies a concerning trend of employing legal mechanisms to intimidate and silence those who voice criticism of government operations and policy decisions.
The case underscores ongoing tensions between former officials and state agencies over accountability and freedom of expression. Montemayor's defense suggests the cyberlibel charge is part of a coordinated strategy rather than an isolated legal dispute.
The former DA chief's stand reflects broader concerns among Philippine officials and observers about the use of defamation suits against critics, a tactic rights advocates have flagged as potentially chilling to public discourse and scrutiny of state institutions.