25/01/2026
NPC Statement Condemning Congressman Edwin Gardiola’s Gag Order Attempt Against Bilyonaryo.com
Reference: NPC President Leonel "Boying" Abasola (09663346259)
The National Press Club of the Philippines (NPC) strongly condemns the attempt by Construction Workers Solidarity (CWS) Party-list Representative Edwin Gardiola to obtain a gag order against the online news outlet Bilyonaryo.com. This move constitutes a grave attack on press freedom and a direct attempt to suppress investigative journalism that serves the public interest.
"The NPC views any effort to silence reporting as an affront to the essential role of the press in informing the public, holding power to account, and safeguarding democratic governance.
A gag order would chill the freedom of expression and press freedom, and could set a dangerous precedent that empowers public officials to silence critical or potentially harmful coverage," NPC President Leonel Abasola said.
The contemplated measure appears at odds with the spirit of Republic Act No. 11458 (RA 11458), enacted in 2019, which broadened protections for journalists and clarified concerns about sources and information in broadcast and online media. The NPC asserts that journalists must be free to publish information in the public interest without undue interference, while upholding due process and the integrity of legal proceedings.
The NPC calls on the courts to uphold press freedom, ensure fair balancing of interests, and resist measures that would unnecessarily restrain publication of information in the public interest.
Respect for freedom of the press as enshrined in the Constitution and international standards.
Careful, transparent handling of confidential information where legally warranted, with robust safeguards for sources and privileged information.
We reaffirm our commitment to defending the rights of journalists to report accurately, independently, and without fear of reprisal or censorship. The NPC stands in solidarity with Bilyonaryo.com and other media outlets exercising their essential function of informing Filipinos and strengthening our democracy.
