Business · Philippines Bureau
Farmers' group pushes to dismiss cyber libel case vs ex-agriculture chief
The Federation of Free Farmers has called for the dismissal of a cyber libel suit filed against former Agriculture Secretary Leonardo Montemayor, arguing his statements about rice imports deserve protection as legitimate advocacy.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) on Wednesday urged the dismissal of a cyber libel case against former Agriculture Secretary Leonardo Montemayor, contending that his public statements questioning Planters Products Inc.'s rice import operations fall within protected speech.
Montemayor faces the cyber libel suit over remarks he made regarding PPI's rice importation activities. The FFF argued that dismissing the case is essential to safeguard advocates who speak out on behalf of Philippine farmers and their interests.
"We call for the dismissal of this cyber libel suit, and for protection of advocates who defend farmers," the organization stated in a position paper. The group emphasized the importance of allowing open debate on agricultural policies and trade practices affecting the farming sector.
The case highlights ongoing tensions between domestic agricultural stakeholders and import-related business interests in the Philippines. The FFF's intervention underscores concerns among farmer groups that legal action could chill legitimate public discourse on agricultural matters of national importance.
The case remains pending before the courts as various stakeholders continue to weigh in on the matter.