December 11, 2024 - Manila, Philippines

Women Press Freedom condemns continued legal persecution of journalist Lady Ann Salem and her husband, Rodrigo Esparago.

Lady Ann Salem, a founding member of Altermidya, has faced relentless harassment since her arrest in Mandaluyong City on December 11, 2020. Despite her release on March 5, 2021, after court orders dismissed fabricated charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives, authorities continue to target her for her bold reporting and dissenting views.

In August 2024, the Solicitor General appealed to the Philippine Supreme Court to reopen the cases against Salem and her husband. This move not only threatened their rights but also set a dangerous precedent for press freedom in the Philippines.

Salem’s case mirrors the plight of other journalists like Frenchimae Cumpio, a former colleague and imprisoned journalist. These attacks aim to silence voices that speak truth to power, undermining democracy and press freedom.

We call on the Philippine authorities to end these chilling tactics and respect the rights of journalists. The international community must stand in solidarity with Salem and others, advocating for an end to the persecution of truth-tellers worldwide.