Court Overturns Rappler Shutdown Order

The Philippine Court of Appeals has overturned a 2018 shutdown order against the news site Rappler, co-founded by Nobel laureate Maria Ressa, marking a significant legal victory for the media outlet. The court ruled that the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) acted with 'grave abuse of discretion' and undemocratically in revoking Rappler's license over alleged foreign ownership violations. The decision, dated July 23 and released publicly on Friday, mandates the restoration of Rappler's certificate of incorporation. This ruling concludes years of legal battles and harassment faced by Rappler under former President Rodrigo Duterte's administration. Rappler continued to operate throughout its appeals and argues it has always been a fully Filipino-owned and managed entity. The court's decision is seen as a vindication for Rappler and a stand for press freedom in the Philippines.