World · Philippines Bureau
Rights lawyer La Viña to sue Parlade over social media red-tagging
Human rights and environmental lawyer Antonio La Viña is preparing to file a civil suit against retired lieutenant general Antonio Parlade Jr., the former spokesperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, over allegations of red-tagging on social media.
LSN Philippines ·
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — La Viña announced his intention to pursue legal action during a visit to the city on Monday, August 24, telling reporters that he was considering filing a civil case against Parlade in connection with social media posts that he characterizes as red-tagging.
The prominent lawyer, known for his work in human rights and environmental advocacy, did not provide specific details about the timeline for filing the suit or the exact posts that would form the basis of his complaint.
Parlade, who previously served as spokesperson for the NTF-ELCAC, has faced multiple accusations of red-tagging from civil society groups and human rights advocates. Red-tagging—the act of labeling individuals as communist sympathizers or insurgents without evidence—has become a contentious issue in the Philippines, with critics arguing it puts activists and lawyers at risk.
La Viña's contemplated legal action represents an escalating response from civil society figures to what they view as unsubstantiated accusations on digital platforms. The case could set a precedent for how Philippine courts handle defamation claims arising from social media red-tagging allegations.