Metro Manila (CNN Philippine, October 9) — The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines congratulated journalist Maria Ressa for winning this year’s Nobel Peace Prize, adding that this should also help put focus on those who seek the truth amid challenging times.
“We hope this award will shine more light on those who put the spotlight on the truth at a time when basic freedoms and democracy are under attack,” the NUJP said in a statement.
The CEO of online news organization Rappler was officially informed of the recognition along with Dmitry Muratov of Russia on Friday.
Ressa is the first Filipino to receive the award and the first woman to be awarded a Nobel Prize this year.
READ: Nobel winner Maria Ressa vows to fight for facts and the rule of law
“The prize is not only a recognition of their work but of the importance of freedom of the press and of expression in their countries and throughout the world,” NUJP added.
The veteran journalist was also congratulated by some government officials.
In a tweet, Vice President Leni Robredo said: “This is a recognition and affirmation of your tireless efforts to hold the line for truth and accountability. I applaud your courage. Mabuhay ka!”
“We are with you in standing up for press freedom against tyrants and evildoers,” Senator Richard Gordon said in a separate tweet.
Former US Secretary of the State Hillary Clinton also celebrated Ressa’s win.
Last June 2020, the Filipino-American journalist was convicted in a cyber libel case filed by businessman Wilfredo Keng. She was sentenced up to 6 years in jail. The conviction is on appeal.
In August this year, a Manila court dismissed another cyber liber case filed against her over an investigative report on an alleged thesis-for-sale scheme.
