We in the Altermidya Network welcome the decision of Judge Monique Quisumbing-Ignacio of the Mandaluyong Regional Trial Court to grant the motion to release Manila Today editor Lady Ann Salem and trade unionist Rodrigo Esparago.

Icy outside the Mandaluyong City Jail. Photo by Manila Today

Judge Ignacio dismissed the charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives against Lady Ann after declaring the search warrant used against them as void.

This is a joyous day for the alternative media, for all journalists, and press freedom advocates!

We continue to press for the release of other independent journalists, especially our colleague Frenchie Mae Cumpio of Eastern Vista, to push back against attacks on truth tellers, and to defend press freedom!