Proposed 'free speech' protection limit alarms CHR

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights on Wednesday expressed concerns over the proposal of a House sub-committee to limit the right to free speech by qualifying it with the phrase “responsible exercise.”

“Not only is the current proposal vague in its definition of what ‘responsible exercise’ mean, but it also allows for the subjective interpretation of the phrase,” CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said in a statement.

De Guia noted that free speech is essential in bringing about change for social good.

“A free, democratic society depends on the free exchange of ideas. Speaking truth to power and fighting for one’s convictions are both anchored on our ability to exercise this freedom,” she stressed.

De Guia added: “In the end, exercising freedoms of speech and expression is not about lessening offense to personal sensibilities. It is about protecting our right to express and be heard in an exchange in pursuit of a better, dignified life for all.”

LIST: Controversial features in House subpanel's proposed federal charter

Last week, a House sub-committee proposed to insert the phrase “responsible exercise of the” to the Section 4 in the Bill of Rights citing alleged abuses in the exercise of free speech in the country.

The proposed section now reads: “No law shall be passed abridging the responsible exercise of the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances.”

The committee will deliberate on this proposal.

It did not sit well with the members of House opposition, saying the proposed provision could be used to curtail freedom of expression.

The country is a signatory to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Article 19 of the said commitment provides sufficient safeguards to the freedom of expression. 

Last week, the registration of online site Rappler was revoked for allegedly violating the Constitution. Organizations and individuals both at home and abroad called the closure order a blatant attempt to silence criticisms hurled at the government.