In a blow to press freedom in the Philippines, the country’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has revoked the registration of news organisation Rappler, allegedly for violating the Constitution and the Anti-Dummy Law.

According to the SEC’s decision, dated 11th January but published on its website Monday, 15th January, “Rappler violates constitutional restrictions on ownership and control of mass media entities” because of funds it receives from the Omidyar Network, a fund created by eBay founder and entrepreneur, Pierre Omidyar.

In a statement addressed to its readers on Monday, Rappler said: "The SEC’s kill order revoking Rappler’s license to operate is the first of its kind in history – both for the Commission and for Philippine media. What this means for you, and for us, is that the Commission is ordering us to close shop, to cease telling you stories, to stop speaking truth to power.” 

The statement highlights that the government has been issuing “a campaign of lies” on the ‘foreign ownership’ of the media outlet: “This is pure and simple harassment, the seeming coup de grace to the relentless and malicious attacks against us since 2016."

Rappler says it will continue operating as it files the necessary motions for reconsideration with the courts.

Read Rappler's statement: Stand with Rappler, defend press freedom

Rappler is part of WAN-IFRA’s Strengthening Media and Society programme.