Is free speech really “under threat” as Rappler CEO Maria Ressa keeps screeching about? Apparently most Filipinos disagree as a recent SWS survey report reveals.
The report showed that Filipinos are in “strong” agreement that “they can openly say whatever they want without fear, even if their statements are against the Duterte administration”.
Results of a June 22-26 poll of 1,200 adults showed 59% of Filipinos agreeing that they are not afraid to criticize the government while 18% disagreed.
That yielded a net agreement score of +41, classified by SWS as “very strong.” The latest reading was 18 points above the “moderate” +23 net score recorded in December last year.
This further supports the possibility that the so-called threat to “press freedom” being brandied around by self-described “legitimate journalists” is all in the minds of Ressa and her Rapplerettes.
|
The report goes further…
Meanwhile, 67% of respondents believe there is freedom of expression and free press in the country while 10% disagree, for a “very strong” net agreement score of +57.
The evidence is all around for everyone to behold. The Philippines’ press continues to be as rumbunctous as it’s long been renowned to be and social media is a thriving free market of ideas. Maria Ressa and her whiney lot just need to learn to step up and compete.
Webmaster of Get Real Philippines