We want to use this case as a potential defense mechanism for journalists who experienced the same kind of attacks and harassment,” said Atom Araullo in a press conference, Dec. 19 in Quezon City.
“The right to free speech is not absolute; it imposes limitations on
its exercise to ensure that it will not impinge upon the rights of others. It does not protect defamatory statements,” the local court declared.
Journalist Atom Araullo completed the presentation of all four witnesses for the civil case he filed against red taggers Lorrain Badoy-Patosa and Jeffrey Celiz during a hearing before Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 306, June 11.
Atom Araullo has been at the center of a red-tagging spree since early 2022, targeting both him and his mother Carol, long-time activist and former chairperson of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan.
By DEE AYROSO