Politics · Philippines Bureau
Veteran journalist Lustre arrested over cyberlibel case filed by VP Duterte's husband
Journalist Philip Lustre, 72, was arrested in Quezon City on Saturday following a cyberlibel complaint filed by Atty. Manases Carpio. Despite acknowledging fear over the case, Lustre vowed not to be deterred from his work.
LSN Philippines ·
Veteran journalist Philip Lustre was taken into custody in Quezon City on Saturday pursuant to a warrant of arrest in a cyberlibel case filed against him by Atty. Manases Carpio, husband of Vice President Sara Duterte.
The 72-year-old journalist acknowledged experiencing fear in the wake of the legal action. "I don't let fear immobilize me," Lustre stated, signaling his determination to continue despite the circumstances.
The arrest marks an escalation in tensions involving media practitioners covering high-profile political figures in the country. Cyberlibel cases have become increasingly common in recent years, raising concerns among press freedom advocates regarding potential chilling effects on reporting.
Lustre's case comes amid broader discussions in the Philippines about the balance between protecting individual reputation and safeguarding journalistic freedom. The case is expected to proceed through the courts as legal proceedings unfold.