PRIMER ON THE RIGHT OF REPLY BILL. PREPARED BY THE NATIONAL UNION OF JOURNALISTS OF THE PHILIPPINES.
1. What is the Right of Reply Bill (RORB)?
The RORB is Senate Bill (SB) 2150 being proposed by Senators Aquilino Pimentel Jr, Ramon Revilla Jr, and Francis "Chiz" Escudero, as a substitute bill to SB 1178.
In the Lower House, it is House Bill (HB) 3306 which is the merged version of HBs 162 and1001 authored by Representative Juan Edgardo Angara and Monico Puentevella.
2. What is the subject of this bill?
In the original version, the bill provides for the right of individuals and groups to respond to news stories released by the media that referred to or criticized them.
The RORB mandates media organizations to publish or broadcast the reply of an individual, group, company, agency, or institution that was criticized, accused, or quoted in a news story, statement, or opinion in newspapers, television and radio stations, the Internet, and any other electronic device, such as cellphones.
3. What are considered sufficient bases for an individual or group to reply to a released news story?
Based on the original version of the RORB, criticism based on innuendo, suggestion, and rumor constitutes a sufficient basis for them to have their reply published.
The version of the Lower House includes as an obligation of the media the responsibility to correct any previous story should the court find an accused not guilty of the crime imputed against him/her.
4. What is prescribed to be the length of the reply?
The RORB mandates that the reply to be published or broadcast be of the same length as the previously published or broadcast story involving the individual or group. In the Senate version, libelous allegations in the reply may be removed.
This means that the bill allows the release of a reply or rejoinder in newspapers, TV and radio stations, the Internet, and cellphones (through SMS news), regardless of its relevance or substance.
This also means that it�s possible for news stories to contain mere views or reactions by any person who wants to comment on any story which he/she feels are referring to their person.
In both versions, the publication or broadcast of the reply are free of any charges or fees.
5. In which part of the newspaper, TV and radio programs, Internet, and SMS news should the reply be published or broadcast?
RORB mandates that the reply be published in the same space of the concerned publication, or aired over the same program on television, radio, the Internet, or any other electronic device, where the subject story first appeared.
For example, if a story appeared in the upper fold of the front page of a newspaper, the bill mandates that the reply be published in the same exact position.
If the subject story appeared on the first gap of the TV or radio news program, the bill mandates that the reply be aired over the same slot.
6. When should the reply be published or broadcast?
In the Senate version of the RORB, it is mandated that the reply be published within three days after the concerned media organization receives the reply.
In the version of the Lower House, the reply needs to be published or broadcast a day after the publication or broadcast of the subject story.
7. Should it be passed, what are the penalties for violations of the RORB?
Senate version:
1st offense - P10,000
2nd offense - P20,000
3rd offense - P30,000
4th and subsequent offenses - P50,000
House version:
1st offense � P10,000
2nd offense � P30,000
3rd offense - P50,000 and imprisonment for no more than 30 days
4th offense - P100,000 and imprisonment for no more than 30 days
For subsequent offenses - P200,000, imprisonment for no more than 30 days, and closure or suspension of the franchise of the publication or broadcast station for 30 days.
8. Are block-timers also subject to the proposed law?
Block-timers are independent news and public affairs producers who pay TV and radio stations for the broadcast of their programs (e.g., The Probe Team). The RORB mentions that block-timers are subject to the Code of Ethics or to self-regulation being implemented by the TV or radio station from which they purchase time slots.
9. Why should the RORB be opposed?
The RORB clearly preempts and undermines the right of publishers, editors, and producers to decide on which news stories they will feature. The RORB dictates what should and should not be published or broadcast by media organizations way before the latter can even decide on which issues are to be discussed.
This is undoubtedly a form of prior restraint. Prior restraint or any other form of legislation aimed at thwarting the freedom of the press is prohibited under the Constitution.
The bill, which prescribes the timeframe, length, and manner of publication or broadcast of replies, is a clear manifestation of an attempt to unduly impose upon media practice.
Also, the penalties prescribed in the RORB � such as imposition of fines, imprisonment, and closure and suspension of the franchise of the concerned media outlet � is an apparent breach of press freedom.
10. What does the sunset clause of the RORB state and why is it problematic?
The Senate version includes a sunset clause under section 10, or a period of effectivity should it be passed into law. The sunset clause states that law shall take effect for a period of seven years, unless the Congress extends its effectivity.
Therein lies one possible motive behind the bill: It must be remembered that the length of service of government officials are from three (local officials and district representatives) to six years (president, vice president, and senators).
The passage of the bill, which is currently being railroaded, also coincides with the 2010 elections, and with the term of the President, Vice President, and other government officials. Therefore, when passed into law, the bill will be very much open to abuse by a few high-ranking officials.
12. What are the other implications of the passage of the RORB?
It�s possible for news stories to contain mere replies by supposedly aggrieved parties which will result in reduced space for more important news stories and even for commercial advertisements. As such, it�s also possible for publications, TV and radio stations, and online news resources to incur losses and be compelled to cease operations.
The proposed law is also vulnerable to abuse by politicians and government officials for their own selfish interests.
13. What about the rights of people whose reputations have been marred by stories delving into their private life, profession, and person?
The rights of any person to an untainted reputation and to privacy are upheld by the Constitution. The media respect, support, and defend these rights.
If a person�s reputation, private life, and character have been the subject of accusations or criticism, it is that person�s right to be given the chance to defend himself/herself regardless of whether or not there exists a Right of Reply Law.
The media currently enacts its responsibility to the people to be fair and balanced in their reportage by getting all possible sides to an issue; it is certain and part of standard editorial procedures to get the side of a person or group involved in an issue.
14. Is there a guarantee that private people are given the right to defend themselves should they be the subject of a news story?
Journalists and media organizations have their own policies and a Code of Ethics which they are expected to adhere to. Also, other media organizations have their own and more specific policies and ethical codes which they implement.
15. If there is no Right of Reply Law and a publication or program fails or refuses to release the reply of an aggrieved person or group, what other recourses can be taken?
If a person or group has complaints against or reactions to a published or broadcast news story, there are a number of possible actions:
1. The complaint may be filed with the editor or publisher of the publication, or with the producer, news manager, or owner of the TV or radio station, or SMS news;
2. If the concerned media organization fails to act on the issue, the complaint may be filed with a press council if there exists one in your area;
3. Complaints may also be filed with organizations of journalists and media workers, like the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, a union of media workers, the Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility, and other organizations;
4. A lawsuit can also be filed if there is a violation of the libel law (defamation, baseless accusation), contempt law (if speedy execution of justice is prevented or blocked by a person or group with a pending case in court), or sub judice (violation of the restriction on discussing in news stories the merits of a case currently pending in court)
16. Is there a Right of Reply Law in other countries?
The United States Supreme Court declared unconstitutional the Right of Reply Law. And while similar laws exist in some countries in Europe, such laws cover only inaccuracy in information and not opinions or insights.
17. What is the current status of the RORB in Congress?
It was railroaded in the Senate on June 2008 and is currently on second reading in the Lower House.
In both instances, leading media organizations like the Philippine Daily Inquirer, GMA 7, ABS-CBN, DZBB, Inquirer.net, Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility, and the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines were not consulted. Community newspapers and provincial radio and TV stations were also not consulted. Simply put, there was no comprehensive consultation conducted by the Senate and the Lower House.
When the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines decried the RORB, a number of Senators withdrew their support for the bill. Only six to seven senators remain staunch in their call to enact the RORB.
18. What courses of action were taken by the majority of media organizations upon learning of the RORB?
The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines immediately released a position paper after a thorough scrutiny of the issue.
NUJP leaders conferred with several media organizations to get their opinion about the bill. Some of the organizations that NUJP officials visited were GMA 7, ABS-CBN, ABC 5, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Philippine Star, Malaya, DZRH, DZBB, RMN, and the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism.
In a Roundtable Discussion and Unity Press Conference convened by the NUJP on February 10 and 24, all participating organizations agreed to express their unflinching opposition to the RORB.
In a first dialogue between the media and leaders of the Congress on March 3, the two parties remained steadfast in their position.
According to the legislators, led by House Speaker Prospero Nograles, they will persist in pushing for the approval of the RORB. Representatives Puentevella at Bienvenido Abante, primary authors of the bill, said they have amended the bill and removed some provisions, particularly those prescribing stiff penalties. Senador Aquilino Pimentel Jr., one of the authors of the RORB approved by the Senate, similarly proposed amendments to the RORB.
19. Now that there are amendments to the provisions, are media organizations withdrawing their opposition to the RORB?
No. The media reiterate that the Right of Reply Bill is a violation of the Constitution where the freedom of the press is enshrined. It translates to an undue imposition of what stories may or may not be published or aired.
The freedom of the press must not be compromised, as such is a fundamental threat to a democratic society such as ours.
The media are opposed to any amendments to the RORB as the bill still remains a material intervention to an unfettered journalistic practice.
Any law which seeks to impair or undermine press freedom should not be negotiated on and should be met with the fiercest resistance.
In light of this, all concerned media practitioners and organizations demand that the Right of Reply Bill be scrapped.
20. What should be done to block the passage of the RORB into law?
Make people understand that even while the media already uphold a person�s right to privacy, there are existing procedures and remedies for any one to be able to express his/her opinion on any news story and the Right of Reply law is hence unnecessary;
Make people appreciate the fact that issue of press freedom is also their issue; if press freedom were to be suppressed, much of what happens around us will be censored and the people will be left in the dark as to their country�s true state of affairs;
Encourage your district representatives to oppose the RORB;
Attend hearings, forums, and dialogues about RORB and express your position;
Text your friends to support the call of media practitioners to scrap the RORB;
Talk, write, and send a message via e-mail, Friendster, Facebook, and text to your district representatives and let them know your position about RORB;
If you are a media practitioner, sign the petition currently circulated across the nation.
For other details, please contact the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, landline (02) 411-77-68, email: nujphil@gmail.com or visit www.nujp.org.
TAGALOG BERSYON
1. Ano ang Right of Reply Bill (RORB)?
Ang RORB ay ang Senate Bill 2150 na ipinanukala nina Senador Aquilino Pimentel Jr, Ramon Revilla Jr, at Francis "Chiz" Escudero, bilang kahaliling panukalang batas sa SB 1178.
Sa Kamara, ito ang House Bill 3306 na mula naman sa pinagsamang House Bill 162 at 1001 nina Representative Juan Edgardo Angara at Monico Puentevella.
2. Tungkol saan ang panukalang batas na ito?
Sa orihinal na bersyon, binibigyan nito ng karapatan ang mga tao o grupo na sumagot sa balitang lumabas sa media na pinupuna, pinatatamaan o pinag-uusapan sila.
Inoobliga ng RORB ang mga organisasyon ng midya na ilabas ang sagot ng isang indibidwal, grupo, kumpanya, ahensya o institusyon na pinuna, inakusahan, o kinunan ng pahayag sa isang balita, pahayag, o opinyon sa dyaryo, telebisyon, radyo, Internet at anupamang elektronikong aparato, gaya ng cellphone.
3. Ano ang basehan ng isang tao o grupo para sumagot sa lumabas na balita?
Batay sa orihinal na bersyon ng RORB, sapat na basehan na ang pasaring (innuendo), tsismis, o puna sa balita para sila ay magpadala ng tugon.
Sa bersyon ng Kamara, isinasama ang obligasyon ng midya na iwasto ang anumang naunang balita sakaling ihayag ng korte na walang sala ang isang akusado sa isang krimen.
4. Gaano kahaba ang maaaring ipadalang tugon?
Ipinag-uutos sa RORB na ang ilalabas na tugon ay may kaparehong haba sa naunang nailathala o naibalita. Sa bersyon ng Senado, tatanggalin ang parte ng tugon na malisyoso o libelous.
Ibig sabihin, pinapayagan ng batas na ilabas sa dyaryo, Internet, telebisyon, radyo o cellphone (sa pamamagitan ng SMS news) ang isang tugon o rejoinder, may katuturan man ito o wala.
Nangangahulugan itong posibleng ang lamanin ng balita ay pawang mga tugon o sagot lamang ng sinumang taong nais magbigay ng pahayag sa anumang balita o lathalaing sa hinala nila�y pinatutungkulan sila.
Sa parehong bersyon, walang bayad ang paglalabas ng tugon.
5. Saang bahagi ng dyaryo, telebisyon, radyo, Internet, at sms news sa cellphone maaaring ilabas ang sagot?
Kung saang bahagi unang inilabas ang balita o lathalaing sinasagot, ipinag-uutos sa RORB na doon din ilalagay ang tugon.
Halimbawa, kung lumabas ang lathalain sa itaas na bahagi ng unang pahina ng isang dyayo, ipinag-uutos na doon din ilabas ang tugon.
Kung sa unang pasok ng mga balita sa telebisyon o radio lumabas ang inirereklamong balita, ipinag-uutos na doon din isahimpapawid ang tugon.
6. Kailan dapat ilabas ang tugon?
Sa bersyon ng Senado ng RORB, ipinag-uutos na ilabas ang tugon sa loob ng tatlong araw matapos matanggap ang tugon ng kinauukulang organisasyon ng midya.
Sa bersyon naman ng Kamara, kailangang ilabas ang tugon sa loob ng isang araw matapos ang pagpapalabas o paglalathala ng sinasagot na balita.
7. Ano ang parusa sa mga lalabag sa RORB kapag naisabatas na ito?
Sa bersyon ng Senado:
1st offense - P10,000
2nd offense - P20,000
3rd offense - P30,000
Para sa kasunod na mga paglabag - P50,000
Sa bersyon ng Kamara:
1st offense � P10,000
2nd offense � P30,000
3rd offense - P50,000 at pagkakakulong nang hindi hihigit sa 30 araw
4th offense - P100,000 at pagkakakulong nang hindi hihigit sa 30 araw
Para sa kasunod na mga paglabag - P200,000, pagkakakulong nang hindi hihigit sa 30 araw at pagpapasara at pagsuspindi ng prangkisa nang 30 araw.
8. Sakop din ba ng panukalang batas ang mga block-timer?
Ang tinatawag na mga block-timer ay ang independiyenteng mga news and public affairs producer na nagbabayad ng renta kada oras sa isang istasyon ng telebisyon o radyo para mailabas ang kanilang programa (halimbawa, The Probe Team). Binabanggit ng RORB na saklaw ang mga block-timer ng Code of Ethics o ng self-regulation na ipinatutupad ng istasyon ng telebisyon o radyo kung saan sila nagbabayad ng upa sa pagpapalabas ng kanilang programa.
9. Bakit dapat tutulan ang pagsasabatas ng RORB?
Malinaw na pinangungunahan ng RORB ang mga publisher, editor, o producer sa mga balita o lathalaing ilalabas nila. Bago pa man makapagpasya ang mga organisasyon ng midya sa kung ano ang kanilang ibabalita, idinidikta na ng RORB ang mga balita o usaping dapat at hindi dapat ihayag.
Ang tawag dito ay prior restraint. Ang prior restraint o anupamang uri ng batas na susupil sa kalayaan sa pamamahayag ay ipinagbabawal ng Konstitusyon.
Ang pagtatakda ng batas ng oras, haba, at paglalapat ng ilalabas na tugon ay isang malinaw na anyo ng pagdidikta sa mga editor o producer ng balita.
Ang parusang krimen sa paglabag sa RORB kapag naisabatas ito - gaya ng pagbabayad ng mga multa, pagkakakulong, at pagsususpindi ng prangkisa at pagpapasara ng media outlet - ay malinaw ding paglabag sa malayang pamamahayag.
10. Ano ang sinasabi ng sunset clause sa RORB at bakit ito problematiko?
Sa bersyon ng Senado, may tinatawag na sunset clause o tagal ng pagpapatupad ng batas, na nakapaloob sa seksyon 10. Nakasaad dito na magkakaroon lamang ng bisa ang RORB sa loob ng pitong taon, maliban kung muli itong ipatupad ng Kongreso.
Mahihinuha mula rito ang isang posibleng motibo sa likod ng RORB: Matatandaang ang termino ng mga opisyal ng gobyerno ay mula tatlo (lokal na mga opisyal, mambabatas) hanggang anim na taon (mga senador, pangulo at pangalawang pangulo).
Kasabay ng minamadaling pagpapatupad ng batas ang halalan sa 2010, at maging ang panahon ng panunungkulan ng Pangulo at Pangalawang Pangulo, at ng iba pang opisyal ng pamahalaan. Bukas, kung gayon, ang batas sa pang-aabuso ng iilang makapangyarihan.
12. Ano ang iba pang implikasyon ng pagsasabatas ng RORB?
Posibleng puro tugon na lamang ang lamanin ng mga balita, na magbubunsod ng mas kaunting espasyo para sa mas mahahalagang balita at maging para sa mga patalastas. Dahil dito, posibleng malugi at mapilitang magsara ang mga dyaryo, istasyon ng telebisyon at radyo, at online na mga mapagkukunan ng balita.
Posibleng ring gamitin at abusuhin ng mga kandidato, pulitiko at iba pang opisyal ng pamahalaan ang RORB para sa kanilang pansariling interes.
13. Paano naman ang karapatan ng mga taong nasira ang reputasyon dahil sa pakikialam sa kanilang pribadong buhay, trabaho o pagkatao?
Ang karapatan ng sinumang tao sa malinis na reputasyon at pribadong pamumuhay ay itinataguyod ng Konstitusyon. Iginagalang, sinusuportahan at ipinagtatanggol ng midya ang mga karapatang ito.
Kung kinuwestyon ang reputasyon o pribadong buhay at pagkatao ng isang tao, karapatan ng apektado na magkaroon ng pagkakataong ipagtanggol ang sarili may Right of Reply Law mang umiiral o wala.
Kasalukuyan nang ginagampanan ng midya ang responsibilidad nito sa mamamayang maging patas at balanse sa pagbabalita sa pamamagitan ng pagkuha ng iba�t ibang panig sa isang isyu; awtomatiko at karaniwan nang patakarang editoryal ang ilabas ang panig ng apektadong tao o grupo.
14. May garantiya bang nabibigyan ng pagkakataon ang mga pribadong tao na maipagtanggol ang kanilang sarili at linisin ang kanilang reputasyon sakaling maging paksa sila ng anumang balita?
May sariling mga panuntunan at Code of Ethics na sinusunod ang mga mamamahayag. Gayundin, may sarili at mas detalyadong mga panuntunan at code of ethics ang ilang mga organisasyon ng midya.
15. Kung walang Right of Reply Law at hindi inilabas ng pahayagan o programa ang tugon ng naagrabyadong tao o grupo, ano ang maaaring gawin?
Kung may reklamo o reaksyon ang isang tao o grupo sa inilabas na balita, maraming aksyong maaaring isagawa:
1. Maaaring maghain ng reklamo sa mga editor o publisher ng dyaryo, o sa producer, news manager o may-ari ng istasyon ng telebisyon at radio, o SMS news;
2. Kapag hindi inaksyunan ng kinauukulang partido, maaaring magreklamo sa press council kung mayroong itinatag sa inyong lugar;
3. Maaari ring magreklamo sa mga samahan ng mga mamamahayag o manggagawa sa midya, gaya ng National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, unyon ng mga manggagawa sa midya, Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility, at iba pa;
4. Maaari ring maghabla kung nagkaroon ng paglabag sa libel law (paninirang-puri, walang basehang puna), contempt law (kapag pinigilan o hinarangan ang mabilis na pagkuha ng hustisya ng isang tao o grupo na may kaso sa korte), sub judice (pagsuway sa patakarang naghihigpit sa pagtalakay sa balita ng kasong kasalukuyang dinidinig sa hukuman)
16. May Right of Reply Law ba sa ibang bansa?
Idineklara ng Korte Suprema ng Estados Unidos na labag sa Saligang Batas ang Right of Reply Law. Bagamat may ipinatutupad na katulad na batas sa ilang mga bansa sa Europa, saklaw lamang nito ang maling mga impormasyon at hindi ang mga opinyon o saloobin.
17. Ano ang kasalukuyang katayuan ng RORB sa Kongreso?
Mabilisan itong ipinasa sa Senado noong Hunyo 2008 at nasa pangalawang pagdinig na ito sa Kamara.
Sa parehong pagkakataon, hindi inimbitahan ang maraming malalaki at pangunahing samahan sa midya gaya ng Philippine Daily Inquirer, GMA 7, ABS-CBN, DZBB, Inquirer.net, Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility at National Union of Journalists of the Philippines. Sa madaling salita, walang malawakan at komprehensibong konsultasyong isinagawa ang Senado at Kamara.
Kung ang malalaking organisasyon ng media ay hindi inimbitahan, lalong hindi kinonsulta ang mga pahayagang pang-komunidad, at mga provincial radio at TV station.
Nang ipamandila ng National Union of Journalists of the Philippines ang usapin sa RORB, iniurong ng maraming senador ang kanilang suporta para rito. Anim hanggang pitong senador na lamang ang naninindigan para isabatas ang RORB.
18. Ano ang ginawang aksyon ng malaking bahagi ng midya nang malamang may RORB na ipinoproseso sa Kongreso?
Agad na naglabas ng position paper ang National Union of Journalists of the Philippines matapos pag-aralan ang usapin.
Inikot ng mga lider ng NUJP ang maraming mga samahan ng midya upang kunin ang kanilang saloobin. Kasama sa mga binisita ng NUJP ang GMA 7, ABS-CBN, ABC 5, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Philippine Star, Malaya, DZRH, DZBB, RMN, at Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism.
Sa isang Roundtable Discussion at Unity Press Conference na ipinatawag ng NUJP noong Pebrero 10 at 24, nagkaisa ang lahat ng nakilahok na mga samahan na tutulan ang RORB.
Sa unang paghaharap ng midya at mga lider ng Kamara noong Marso 3, parehong nanindigan ang dalawang partido sa kani-kanilang posisyon.
Ayon sa mga mambabatas, sa pangunguna ni House Speaker Prospero Nograles, itutuloy nila ang pagtutulak na isabatas ang RORB. Binanggit din ng mga may-akda ng panukala na sina Puentevella at Bienvenido Abante, inamyendahan nila ang panukala. Marami raw silang tinanggal na probisyon gaya ng mabibigat na parusa. Ganito rin daw ang ginawa ni Senador Aquilino Pimentel Jr. na isa sa may-akda ng ipinasang RORB sa Senado.
19. Ngayong may mga pag-amyenda na sa mga probisyon, sinasang-ayunan na ba ng midya ang RORB?
Hindi. Nanindigan ang media na ang Right of Reply Bill ay paglabag sa Saligang Batas na nagtataguyod ng malayang pamamahayag. Ito ay pagdidikta sa mga balitang ilalabas ng midya.
Hindi dapat ikompromiso ang karapatan para sa malayang pamamahayag. Makakasira ito sa demokrasyang umiiral sa lipunan.
Tutol ang media sa anumang pag-amyenda sa RORB dahil nananatili pa rin itong panghihimasok sa karapatan sa malayang pamamahayag.
Hindi matatawaran o maidaraan sa negosasyon ang anumang batas na sisira o magpapahina sa kalayaan sa pamamahayag.
Dahil dito, hinihingi ng lahat ng mga kasapi ng midya na tuluyan nang ibasura ang Right of Reply Bill.
20. Ano ang maaring gawin upang mapigilan ang pagsasabatas ng RORB?
Ipaunawa sa taumbayan na bukod sa itinataguyod ng midya ang karapatan sa pagkapribado ng isang tao, marami nang umiiral na paraan upang maipahayag ng sinuman ang kanyang reaksyon o pagtutol sa anumang balita at hindi na kailangan kung gayon ang Right of Reply Law.
Ipaalam sa taumbayan na ang usapin sa kalayaan sa pamamahayag ay usapin din nila: kung susupilin ang malayang pamamahayag, hindi mailalabas ang maraming katotohonan sa nangyayari sa ating paligid at gagawing mangmang sa katotohanan ang maraming mamamayan;
Himukin ang mga mambabatas sa inyong lugar na tutulan ang pagsasabatas ng RORB;
Dumalo sa mga pagdinig, forum o pakikipag-usap tungkol sa RORB at ipahayag ang inyong posisyon;
I-text ang mga kakilala upang suportahan ang panawagan ng midya na na ibasura ang RORB;
Kausapin, sulatan, i-e-mail, i-friendster, i-facebook at i-text message ang inyong mambabatas at ipaalam ang inyong posisyon tungkol sa RORB;
Kung ikaw ay isang kasamahan sa media, pumirma sa petisyong kasalukuyang ipinakakalat sa buong bansa.
Para sa iba pang detalye, makipag-ugnayan sa National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, landline (02) 411-77-68, email: nujphil@gmail.com o bumisita sa www.nujp.org.
1. What is the Right of Reply Bill (RORB)?
The RORB is Senate Bill (SB) 2150 being proposed by Senators Aquilino Pimentel Jr, Ramon Revilla Jr, and Francis "Chiz" Escudero, as a substitute bill to SB 1178.
In the Lower House, it is House Bill (HB) 3306 which is the merged version of HBs 162 and1001 authored by Representative Juan Edgardo Angara and Monico Puentevella.
2. What is the subject of this bill?
In the original version, the bill provides for the right of individuals and groups to respond to news stories released by the media that referred to or criticized them.
The RORB mandates media organizations to publish or broadcast the reply of an individual, group, company, agency, or institution that was criticized, accused, or quoted in a news story, statement, or opinion in newspapers, television and radio stations, the Internet, and any other electronic device, such as cellphones.
3. What are considered sufficient bases for an individual or group to reply to a released news story?
Based on the original version of the RORB, criticism based on innuendo, suggestion, and rumor constitutes a sufficient basis for them to have their reply published.
The version of the Lower House includes as an obligation of the media the responsibility to correct any previous story should the court find an accused not guilty of the crime imputed against him/her.
4. What is prescribed to be the length of the reply?
The RORB mandates that the reply to be published or broadcast be of the same length as the previously published or broadcast story involving the individual or group. In the Senate version, libelous allegations in the reply may be removed.
This means that the bill allows the release of a reply or rejoinder in newspapers, TV and radio stations, the Internet, and cellphones (through SMS news), regardless of its relevance or substance.
This also means that it�s possible for news stories to contain mere views or reactions by any person who wants to comment on any story which he/she feels are referring to their person.
In both versions, the publication or broadcast of the reply are free of any charges or fees.
5. In which part of the newspaper, TV and radio programs, Internet, and SMS news should the reply be published or broadcast?
RORB mandates that the reply be published in the same space of the concerned publication, or aired over the same program on television, radio, the Internet, or any other electronic device, where the subject story first appeared.
For example, if a story appeared in the upper fold of the front page of a newspaper, the bill mandates that the reply be published in the same exact position.
If the subject story appeared on the first gap of the TV or radio news program, the bill mandates that the reply be aired over the same slot.
6. When should the reply be published or broadcast?
In the Senate version of the RORB, it is mandated that the reply be published within three days after the concerned media organization receives the reply.
In the version of the Lower House, the reply needs to be published or broadcast a day after the publication or broadcast of the subject story.
7. Should it be passed, what are the penalties for violations of the RORB?
Senate version:
1st offense - P10,000
2nd offense - P20,000
3rd offense - P30,000
4th and subsequent offenses - P50,000
House version:
1st offense � P10,000
2nd offense � P30,000
3rd offense - P50,000 and imprisonment for no more than 30 days
4th offense - P100,000 and imprisonment for no more than 30 days
For subsequent offenses - P200,000, imprisonment for no more than 30 days, and closure or suspension of the franchise of the publication or broadcast station for 30 days.
8. Are block-timers also subject to the proposed law?
Block-timers are independent news and public affairs producers who pay TV and radio stations for the broadcast of their programs (e.g., The Probe Team). The RORB mentions that block-timers are subject to the Code of Ethics or to self-regulation being implemented by the TV or radio station from which they purchase time slots.
9. Why should the RORB be opposed?
The RORB clearly preempts and undermines the right of publishers, editors, and producers to decide on which news stories they will feature. The RORB dictates what should and should not be published or broadcast by media organizations way before the latter can even decide on which issues are to be discussed.
This is undoubtedly a form of prior restraint. Prior restraint or any other form of legislation aimed at thwarting the freedom of the press is prohibited under the Constitution.
The bill, which prescribes the timeframe, length, and manner of publication or broadcast of replies, is a clear manifestation of an attempt to unduly impose upon media practice.
Also, the penalties prescribed in the RORB � such as imposition of fines, imprisonment, and closure and suspension of the franchise of the concerned media outlet � is an apparent breach of press freedom.
10. What does the sunset clause of the RORB state and why is it problematic?
The Senate version includes a sunset clause under section 10, or a period of effectivity should it be passed into law. The sunset clause states that law shall take effect for a period of seven years, unless the Congress extends its effectivity.
Therein lies one possible motive behind the bill: It must be remembered that the length of service of government officials are from three (local officials and district representatives) to six years (president, vice president, and senators).
The passage of the bill, which is currently being railroaded, also coincides with the 2010 elections, and with the term of the President, Vice President, and other government officials. Therefore, when passed into law, the bill will be very much open to abuse by a few high-ranking officials.
12. What are the other implications of the passage of the RORB?
It�s possible for news stories to contain mere replies by supposedly aggrieved parties which will result in reduced space for more important news stories and even for commercial advertisements. As such, it�s also possible for publications, TV and radio stations, and online news resources to incur losses and be compelled to cease operations.
The proposed law is also vulnerable to abuse by politicians and government officials for their own selfish interests.
13. What about the rights of people whose reputations have been marred by stories delving into their private life, profession, and person?
The rights of any person to an untainted reputation and to privacy are upheld by the Constitution. The media respect, support, and defend these rights.
If a person�s reputation, private life, and character have been the subject of accusations or criticism, it is that person�s right to be given the chance to defend himself/herself regardless of whether or not there exists a Right of Reply Law.
The media currently enacts its responsibility to the people to be fair and balanced in their reportage by getting all possible sides to an issue; it is certain and part of standard editorial procedures to get the side of a person or group involved in an issue.
14. Is there a guarantee that private people are given the right to defend themselves should they be the subject of a news story?
Journalists and media organizations have their own policies and a Code of Ethics which they are expected to adhere to. Also, other media organizations have their own and more specific policies and ethical codes which they implement.
15. If there is no Right of Reply Law and a publication or program fails or refuses to release the reply of an aggrieved person or group, what other recourses can be taken?
If a person or group has complaints against or reactions to a published or broadcast news story, there are a number of possible actions:
1. The complaint may be filed with the editor or publisher of the publication, or with the producer, news manager, or owner of the TV or radio station, or SMS news;
2. If the concerned media organization fails to act on the issue, the complaint may be filed with a press council if there exists one in your area;
3. Complaints may also be filed with organizations of journalists and media workers, like the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, a union of media workers, the Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility, and other organizations;
4. A lawsuit can also be filed if there is a violation of the libel law (defamation, baseless accusation), contempt law (if speedy execution of justice is prevented or blocked by a person or group with a pending case in court), or sub judice (violation of the restriction on discussing in news stories the merits of a case currently pending in court)
16. Is there a Right of Reply Law in other countries?
The United States Supreme Court declared unconstitutional the Right of Reply Law. And while similar laws exist in some countries in Europe, such laws cover only inaccuracy in information and not opinions or insights.
17. What is the current status of the RORB in Congress?
It was railroaded in the Senate on June 2008 and is currently on second reading in the Lower House.
In both instances, leading media organizations like the Philippine Daily Inquirer, GMA 7, ABS-CBN, DZBB, Inquirer.net, Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility, and the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines were not consulted. Community newspapers and provincial radio and TV stations were also not consulted. Simply put, there was no comprehensive consultation conducted by the Senate and the Lower House.
When the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines decried the RORB, a number of Senators withdrew their support for the bill. Only six to seven senators remain staunch in their call to enact the RORB.
18. What courses of action were taken by the majority of media organizations upon learning of the RORB?
The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines immediately released a position paper after a thorough scrutiny of the issue.
NUJP leaders conferred with several media organizations to get their opinion about the bill. Some of the organizations that NUJP officials visited were GMA 7, ABS-CBN, ABC 5, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Philippine Star, Malaya, DZRH, DZBB, RMN, and the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism.
In a Roundtable Discussion and Unity Press Conference convened by the NUJP on February 10 and 24, all participating organizations agreed to express their unflinching opposition to the RORB.
In a first dialogue between the media and leaders of the Congress on March 3, the two parties remained steadfast in their position.
According to the legislators, led by House Speaker Prospero Nograles, they will persist in pushing for the approval of the RORB. Representatives Puentevella at Bienvenido Abante, primary authors of the bill, said they have amended the bill and removed some provisions, particularly those prescribing stiff penalties. Senador Aquilino Pimentel Jr., one of the authors of the RORB approved by the Senate, similarly proposed amendments to the RORB.
19. Now that there are amendments to the provisions, are media organizations withdrawing their opposition to the RORB?
No. The media reiterate that the Right of Reply Bill is a violation of the Constitution where the freedom of the press is enshrined. It translates to an undue imposition of what stories may or may not be published or aired.
The freedom of the press must not be compromised, as such is a fundamental threat to a democratic society such as ours.
The media are opposed to any amendments to the RORB as the bill still remains a material intervention to an unfettered journalistic practice.
Any law which seeks to impair or undermine press freedom should not be negotiated on and should be met with the fiercest resistance.
In light of this, all concerned media practitioners and organizations demand that the Right of Reply Bill be scrapped.
20. What should be done to block the passage of the RORB into law?
Make people understand that even while the media already uphold a person�s right to privacy, there are existing procedures and remedies for any one to be able to express his/her opinion on any news story and the Right of Reply law is hence unnecessary;
Make people appreciate the fact that issue of press freedom is also their issue; if press freedom were to be suppressed, much of what happens around us will be censored and the people will be left in the dark as to their country�s true state of affairs;
Encourage your district representatives to oppose the RORB;
Attend hearings, forums, and dialogues about RORB and express your position;
Text your friends to support the call of media practitioners to scrap the RORB;
Talk, write, and send a message via e-mail, Friendster, Facebook, and text to your district representatives and let them know your position about RORB;
If you are a media practitioner, sign the petition currently circulated across the nation.
For other details, please contact the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, landline (02) 411-77-68, email: nujphil@gmail.com or visit www.nujp.org.
TAGALOG BERSYON
1. Ano ang Right of Reply Bill (RORB)?
Ang RORB ay ang Senate Bill 2150 na ipinanukala nina Senador Aquilino Pimentel Jr, Ramon Revilla Jr, at Francis "Chiz" Escudero, bilang kahaliling panukalang batas sa SB 1178.
Sa Kamara, ito ang House Bill 3306 na mula naman sa pinagsamang House Bill 162 at 1001 nina Representative Juan Edgardo Angara at Monico Puentevella.
2. Tungkol saan ang panukalang batas na ito?
Sa orihinal na bersyon, binibigyan nito ng karapatan ang mga tao o grupo na sumagot sa balitang lumabas sa media na pinupuna, pinatatamaan o pinag-uusapan sila.
Inoobliga ng RORB ang mga organisasyon ng midya na ilabas ang sagot ng isang indibidwal, grupo, kumpanya, ahensya o institusyon na pinuna, inakusahan, o kinunan ng pahayag sa isang balita, pahayag, o opinyon sa dyaryo, telebisyon, radyo, Internet at anupamang elektronikong aparato, gaya ng cellphone.
3. Ano ang basehan ng isang tao o grupo para sumagot sa lumabas na balita?
Batay sa orihinal na bersyon ng RORB, sapat na basehan na ang pasaring (innuendo), tsismis, o puna sa balita para sila ay magpadala ng tugon.
Sa bersyon ng Kamara, isinasama ang obligasyon ng midya na iwasto ang anumang naunang balita sakaling ihayag ng korte na walang sala ang isang akusado sa isang krimen.
4. Gaano kahaba ang maaaring ipadalang tugon?
Ipinag-uutos sa RORB na ang ilalabas na tugon ay may kaparehong haba sa naunang nailathala o naibalita. Sa bersyon ng Senado, tatanggalin ang parte ng tugon na malisyoso o libelous.
Ibig sabihin, pinapayagan ng batas na ilabas sa dyaryo, Internet, telebisyon, radyo o cellphone (sa pamamagitan ng SMS news) ang isang tugon o rejoinder, may katuturan man ito o wala.
Nangangahulugan itong posibleng ang lamanin ng balita ay pawang mga tugon o sagot lamang ng sinumang taong nais magbigay ng pahayag sa anumang balita o lathalaing sa hinala nila�y pinatutungkulan sila.
Sa parehong bersyon, walang bayad ang paglalabas ng tugon.
5. Saang bahagi ng dyaryo, telebisyon, radyo, Internet, at sms news sa cellphone maaaring ilabas ang sagot?
Kung saang bahagi unang inilabas ang balita o lathalaing sinasagot, ipinag-uutos sa RORB na doon din ilalagay ang tugon.
Halimbawa, kung lumabas ang lathalain sa itaas na bahagi ng unang pahina ng isang dyayo, ipinag-uutos na doon din ilabas ang tugon.
Kung sa unang pasok ng mga balita sa telebisyon o radio lumabas ang inirereklamong balita, ipinag-uutos na doon din isahimpapawid ang tugon.
6. Kailan dapat ilabas ang tugon?
Sa bersyon ng Senado ng RORB, ipinag-uutos na ilabas ang tugon sa loob ng tatlong araw matapos matanggap ang tugon ng kinauukulang organisasyon ng midya.
Sa bersyon naman ng Kamara, kailangang ilabas ang tugon sa loob ng isang araw matapos ang pagpapalabas o paglalathala ng sinasagot na balita.
7. Ano ang parusa sa mga lalabag sa RORB kapag naisabatas na ito?
Sa bersyon ng Senado:
1st offense - P10,000
2nd offense - P20,000
3rd offense - P30,000
Para sa kasunod na mga paglabag - P50,000
Sa bersyon ng Kamara:
1st offense � P10,000
2nd offense � P30,000
3rd offense - P50,000 at pagkakakulong nang hindi hihigit sa 30 araw
4th offense - P100,000 at pagkakakulong nang hindi hihigit sa 30 araw
Para sa kasunod na mga paglabag - P200,000, pagkakakulong nang hindi hihigit sa 30 araw at pagpapasara at pagsuspindi ng prangkisa nang 30 araw.
8. Sakop din ba ng panukalang batas ang mga block-timer?
Ang tinatawag na mga block-timer ay ang independiyenteng mga news and public affairs producer na nagbabayad ng renta kada oras sa isang istasyon ng telebisyon o radyo para mailabas ang kanilang programa (halimbawa, The Probe Team). Binabanggit ng RORB na saklaw ang mga block-timer ng Code of Ethics o ng self-regulation na ipinatutupad ng istasyon ng telebisyon o radyo kung saan sila nagbabayad ng upa sa pagpapalabas ng kanilang programa.
9. Bakit dapat tutulan ang pagsasabatas ng RORB?
Malinaw na pinangungunahan ng RORB ang mga publisher, editor, o producer sa mga balita o lathalaing ilalabas nila. Bago pa man makapagpasya ang mga organisasyon ng midya sa kung ano ang kanilang ibabalita, idinidikta na ng RORB ang mga balita o usaping dapat at hindi dapat ihayag.
Ang tawag dito ay prior restraint. Ang prior restraint o anupamang uri ng batas na susupil sa kalayaan sa pamamahayag ay ipinagbabawal ng Konstitusyon.
Ang pagtatakda ng batas ng oras, haba, at paglalapat ng ilalabas na tugon ay isang malinaw na anyo ng pagdidikta sa mga editor o producer ng balita.
Ang parusang krimen sa paglabag sa RORB kapag naisabatas ito - gaya ng pagbabayad ng mga multa, pagkakakulong, at pagsususpindi ng prangkisa at pagpapasara ng media outlet - ay malinaw ding paglabag sa malayang pamamahayag.
10. Ano ang sinasabi ng sunset clause sa RORB at bakit ito problematiko?
Sa bersyon ng Senado, may tinatawag na sunset clause o tagal ng pagpapatupad ng batas, na nakapaloob sa seksyon 10. Nakasaad dito na magkakaroon lamang ng bisa ang RORB sa loob ng pitong taon, maliban kung muli itong ipatupad ng Kongreso.
Mahihinuha mula rito ang isang posibleng motibo sa likod ng RORB: Matatandaang ang termino ng mga opisyal ng gobyerno ay mula tatlo (lokal na mga opisyal, mambabatas) hanggang anim na taon (mga senador, pangulo at pangalawang pangulo).
Kasabay ng minamadaling pagpapatupad ng batas ang halalan sa 2010, at maging ang panahon ng panunungkulan ng Pangulo at Pangalawang Pangulo, at ng iba pang opisyal ng pamahalaan. Bukas, kung gayon, ang batas sa pang-aabuso ng iilang makapangyarihan.
12. Ano ang iba pang implikasyon ng pagsasabatas ng RORB?
Posibleng puro tugon na lamang ang lamanin ng mga balita, na magbubunsod ng mas kaunting espasyo para sa mas mahahalagang balita at maging para sa mga patalastas. Dahil dito, posibleng malugi at mapilitang magsara ang mga dyaryo, istasyon ng telebisyon at radyo, at online na mga mapagkukunan ng balita.
Posibleng ring gamitin at abusuhin ng mga kandidato, pulitiko at iba pang opisyal ng pamahalaan ang RORB para sa kanilang pansariling interes.
13. Paano naman ang karapatan ng mga taong nasira ang reputasyon dahil sa pakikialam sa kanilang pribadong buhay, trabaho o pagkatao?
Ang karapatan ng sinumang tao sa malinis na reputasyon at pribadong pamumuhay ay itinataguyod ng Konstitusyon. Iginagalang, sinusuportahan at ipinagtatanggol ng midya ang mga karapatang ito.
Kung kinuwestyon ang reputasyon o pribadong buhay at pagkatao ng isang tao, karapatan ng apektado na magkaroon ng pagkakataong ipagtanggol ang sarili may Right of Reply Law mang umiiral o wala.
Kasalukuyan nang ginagampanan ng midya ang responsibilidad nito sa mamamayang maging patas at balanse sa pagbabalita sa pamamagitan ng pagkuha ng iba�t ibang panig sa isang isyu; awtomatiko at karaniwan nang patakarang editoryal ang ilabas ang panig ng apektadong tao o grupo.
14. May garantiya bang nabibigyan ng pagkakataon ang mga pribadong tao na maipagtanggol ang kanilang sarili at linisin ang kanilang reputasyon sakaling maging paksa sila ng anumang balita?
May sariling mga panuntunan at Code of Ethics na sinusunod ang mga mamamahayag. Gayundin, may sarili at mas detalyadong mga panuntunan at code of ethics ang ilang mga organisasyon ng midya.
15. Kung walang Right of Reply Law at hindi inilabas ng pahayagan o programa ang tugon ng naagrabyadong tao o grupo, ano ang maaaring gawin?
Kung may reklamo o reaksyon ang isang tao o grupo sa inilabas na balita, maraming aksyong maaaring isagawa:
1. Maaaring maghain ng reklamo sa mga editor o publisher ng dyaryo, o sa producer, news manager o may-ari ng istasyon ng telebisyon at radio, o SMS news;
2. Kapag hindi inaksyunan ng kinauukulang partido, maaaring magreklamo sa press council kung mayroong itinatag sa inyong lugar;
3. Maaari ring magreklamo sa mga samahan ng mga mamamahayag o manggagawa sa midya, gaya ng National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, unyon ng mga manggagawa sa midya, Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility, at iba pa;
4. Maaari ring maghabla kung nagkaroon ng paglabag sa libel law (paninirang-puri, walang basehang puna), contempt law (kapag pinigilan o hinarangan ang mabilis na pagkuha ng hustisya ng isang tao o grupo na may kaso sa korte), sub judice (pagsuway sa patakarang naghihigpit sa pagtalakay sa balita ng kasong kasalukuyang dinidinig sa hukuman)
16. May Right of Reply Law ba sa ibang bansa?
Idineklara ng Korte Suprema ng Estados Unidos na labag sa Saligang Batas ang Right of Reply Law. Bagamat may ipinatutupad na katulad na batas sa ilang mga bansa sa Europa, saklaw lamang nito ang maling mga impormasyon at hindi ang mga opinyon o saloobin.
17. Ano ang kasalukuyang katayuan ng RORB sa Kongreso?
Mabilisan itong ipinasa sa Senado noong Hunyo 2008 at nasa pangalawang pagdinig na ito sa Kamara.
Sa parehong pagkakataon, hindi inimbitahan ang maraming malalaki at pangunahing samahan sa midya gaya ng Philippine Daily Inquirer, GMA 7, ABS-CBN, DZBB, Inquirer.net, Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility at National Union of Journalists of the Philippines. Sa madaling salita, walang malawakan at komprehensibong konsultasyong isinagawa ang Senado at Kamara.
Kung ang malalaking organisasyon ng media ay hindi inimbitahan, lalong hindi kinonsulta ang mga pahayagang pang-komunidad, at mga provincial radio at TV station.
Nang ipamandila ng National Union of Journalists of the Philippines ang usapin sa RORB, iniurong ng maraming senador ang kanilang suporta para rito. Anim hanggang pitong senador na lamang ang naninindigan para isabatas ang RORB.
18. Ano ang ginawang aksyon ng malaking bahagi ng midya nang malamang may RORB na ipinoproseso sa Kongreso?
Agad na naglabas ng position paper ang National Union of Journalists of the Philippines matapos pag-aralan ang usapin.
Inikot ng mga lider ng NUJP ang maraming mga samahan ng midya upang kunin ang kanilang saloobin. Kasama sa mga binisita ng NUJP ang GMA 7, ABS-CBN, ABC 5, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Philippine Star, Malaya, DZRH, DZBB, RMN, at Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism.
Sa isang Roundtable Discussion at Unity Press Conference na ipinatawag ng NUJP noong Pebrero 10 at 24, nagkaisa ang lahat ng nakilahok na mga samahan na tutulan ang RORB.
Sa unang paghaharap ng midya at mga lider ng Kamara noong Marso 3, parehong nanindigan ang dalawang partido sa kani-kanilang posisyon.
Ayon sa mga mambabatas, sa pangunguna ni House Speaker Prospero Nograles, itutuloy nila ang pagtutulak na isabatas ang RORB. Binanggit din ng mga may-akda ng panukala na sina Puentevella at Bienvenido Abante, inamyendahan nila ang panukala. Marami raw silang tinanggal na probisyon gaya ng mabibigat na parusa. Ganito rin daw ang ginawa ni Senador Aquilino Pimentel Jr. na isa sa may-akda ng ipinasang RORB sa Senado.
19. Ngayong may mga pag-amyenda na sa mga probisyon, sinasang-ayunan na ba ng midya ang RORB?
Hindi. Nanindigan ang media na ang Right of Reply Bill ay paglabag sa Saligang Batas na nagtataguyod ng malayang pamamahayag. Ito ay pagdidikta sa mga balitang ilalabas ng midya.
Hindi dapat ikompromiso ang karapatan para sa malayang pamamahayag. Makakasira ito sa demokrasyang umiiral sa lipunan.
Tutol ang media sa anumang pag-amyenda sa RORB dahil nananatili pa rin itong panghihimasok sa karapatan sa malayang pamamahayag.
Hindi matatawaran o maidaraan sa negosasyon ang anumang batas na sisira o magpapahina sa kalayaan sa pamamahayag.
Dahil dito, hinihingi ng lahat ng mga kasapi ng midya na tuluyan nang ibasura ang Right of Reply Bill.
20. Ano ang maaring gawin upang mapigilan ang pagsasabatas ng RORB?
Ipaunawa sa taumbayan na bukod sa itinataguyod ng midya ang karapatan sa pagkapribado ng isang tao, marami nang umiiral na paraan upang maipahayag ng sinuman ang kanyang reaksyon o pagtutol sa anumang balita at hindi na kailangan kung gayon ang Right of Reply Law.
Ipaalam sa taumbayan na ang usapin sa kalayaan sa pamamahayag ay usapin din nila: kung susupilin ang malayang pamamahayag, hindi mailalabas ang maraming katotohonan sa nangyayari sa ating paligid at gagawing mangmang sa katotohanan ang maraming mamamayan;
Himukin ang mga mambabatas sa inyong lugar na tutulan ang pagsasabatas ng RORB;
Dumalo sa mga pagdinig, forum o pakikipag-usap tungkol sa RORB at ipahayag ang inyong posisyon;
I-text ang mga kakilala upang suportahan ang panawagan ng midya na na ibasura ang RORB;
Kausapin, sulatan, i-e-mail, i-friendster, i-facebook at i-text message ang inyong mambabatas at ipaalam ang inyong posisyon tungkol sa RORB;
Kung ikaw ay isang kasamahan sa media, pumirma sa petisyong kasalukuyang ipinakakalat sa buong bansa.
Para sa iba pang detalye, makipag-ugnayan sa National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, landline (02) 411-77-68, email: nujphil@gmail.com o bumisita sa www.nujp.org.
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