Technology · Philippines Bureau
Veteran journalist arrested in Davao on libel complaint
Philip Lustre Jr., a seasoned journalist, was arrested Saturday morning in connection with a cyberlibel case. His legal team says he was not informed of the complaint against him or afforded due process.
LSN Philippines ·
DAVAO CITY — Veteran journalist Philip Lustre Jr. remains uncertain about the origins of a cyberlibel complaint that led to his arrest early Saturday, with his legal representatives questioning the handling of the case.
Human rights lawyer Dino de Leon, retained to represent Lustre, said the journalist was not provided adequate information regarding the complaint filed against him. De Leon expressed concern that his client was not afforded proper due process procedures in advance of the arrest.
The specifics of the alleged offense remain unclear, with Lustre's camp indicating he was kept in the dark about both the complainant's identity and the circumstances that prompted the filing. De Leon's statements suggest potential procedural irregularities in how the case was initiated and pursued.
The arrest marks a notable incident in Davao City involving a journalist with extensive experience in the profession. The case raises questions about transparency and proper legal procedures in cyberlibel complaints, particularly regarding notification and due process requirements for the accused.