Roque fights for freedom of expression

MANILA, Philippines — UniTeam senatorial candidate Harry Roque said yesterday he would continue to fight for freedom of expression despite being the target of fake news and harsh criticisms during an election campaign.

Roque said he firmly defended journalists against libel charges even before he became a presidential spokesman.

“I defended all newspapermen charged for libel. I defended all bloggers who are jailed not just in the Philippines, but abroad, Vietnam and Thailand included,” Roque said.

“I am a firm believer of freedom of expression because whatever lies you will state… we have faculties to ascertain the truth from falsity. So, I have to walk the talk. I’ve stood for freedom of expression. I need to live with it,” Roque said.

He said that even churches enjoy the freedom of speech and are free to endorse any political candidates.

The religious group El Shaddai expressed their support for Roque’s bid for a Senate seat in the May elections.

“I am very happy that I was endorsed by the biggest Catholic charismatic movement El Shaddai,” Roque said.