Update:
- 11/13/15 Bloggers subject to the same libel laws
- Fashion Pulis blogger: I will fight Liz Uys’ libel case
- 10 Things to know about the libel case
Yesterday, the story about a blogger sued by a famous stylist rocked primetime news.
Abusive Free Speech?
The online libel case stemmed from the allegation of blogger Fashion Pulis, that stylist Liz Uy, did a disservice to Maine Mendoza a.k.a. Yaya Dub, for allowing her to wear a recycled gown during the #AlDubEBTamangPanahon event. Interestingly, the same blogger, was also arrested for online libel not too long ago, for a post he wrote about Deniece Cornejo’s alleged medical records.
(Online) libel is a law where an aggrieved party can seek redress from abusive exercise of free speech. In order to sue for damages, according to Jessica Schubert, one must “demonstrate that the libelous statement is not only false, but also caused, or could potentially cause, harm to one’s reputation. The statement must also cause others to dislike, hate or have contempt for the party against which the statement was made”.
Read: Anonymous Communication Can Be A Bad Internet Right
Curtailing Free Speech?
Proponents against libel believed this can be used by the rich and powerful to intimidate and curtail free speech. The story of a blogger and mapping advocate who was sued for libel appears to support their point.
Read: Free Speech Can Violate A Human Right
Effect to Blogging
The cases above are worth following since the resolution can set precedent on future cases, and may change the dynamics of local blogging and how netizens sharing on social media. Bloggers and social media users may have to subject their contents to a new standard.
What’s my take on the issue?
Two of my mentors, taught me these principles about “free speech”, and these has been my guide ever since.
- From a Pastor of one of the largest Christian churches in the world: “Make your words sweet, because one day you might eat them”.
- From a top Businessman in Asia: “When you point your gun, make sure it’s loaded”
What about you, what is your take on the issue?
We have a saying in Sanskrit- Speak true but use sweet words.
We have freedom of speech but we should always have limitation. Just like what happened there – it’s hard to build a good image then someone will just simply ruin it. I don’t follow fashion pulis since I know that this site only shares blind items, gossips and rumors that I’m not interested. I would like to know what happened to its case. It’s interesting.
I agree with your mentors ! I like the first one …speak sweet words , one day you might (have to) eat them ! In general I think ( and I am really sorry about this fact ) , it is a matter of manners , education , intellect , how people communicate ! Times of “anonymous” cyber communicating does not help the situation ! Freedom of speech is possible without insulting , offending or hurting others !
I really wouldn’t know what to say about this. I usually only write from my own experience and I do not involve other people in my posts. I this you shouldn’t accuse or write things that you don’t know if they are true or not. Simple as that. The laws these days can punish the free speech right.
First, I think for Liz Uy vs. Fashion Pulis case online libel here was missused. I don’t think there is anything wrong for stating a fact that Liz Uy allowed Maine Mendoza to wear a recycled gown if Liz Uy really did that. And there are some who make a living by stating negative opinions. I don’t think online is the only place we can find such. There are also tabloids.
I also agree that free speech should not be curtailed. What if a politician is having a misconduct or does not do his job properly? Then that certain politician just claims that it’s defamation? People will no longer know the truth and we’ll all just be doomed.
Meanwhile, on the effects on blogging, I don’t think it will have a huge impact on the real bloggers who practices responsible blogging. Also, we have to keep in mind that words are sharper than a double edged sword. We don’t only hurt other people, but we also end up hurting ourselves. So we should think before we post.
As a blogger when writing about incidents or events i believe its essential to stick to facts and have a good backup of factual data to corroborate the same.
We do owe it to depict information without distorting it
Sonnie,
Personally, I do not have a comment or even an opinion on the case filed but when it comes to writing, I write based on FACTS, not perception when referring to people.
Criticism should always be backed by proof. Period. No proof, then there is nothing to write about. To do so, is dangerous. The law is there to protect people from misusing freedom of speech to slander.
http://www.amazinglifedaily.com
In today’s time, everyone are sure enjoying their freedom of speech especially online, not thinking what would be the effect to others may it be positive or negative.
Expressing our opinions on a different issues is not a problem, but the way we deliver our thoughts and choosing the right words does matter a lot.
Abuse on online libel is actually worrying. Not just in blogging but in posting online in general. I’ve seen bad reviews of companies being shared in social media and other online platforms. There are subtle and not-so-subtle threats of suing the original poster, or readers reminding the poster the possibility of being sued. It may curb freedom of speech, especially for those who merely want to give public warning or heads up.
I was certain that it was you i saw in bloggys last sat, i was just so shy to approach you! 🙂 Congratulations for grabbing the award! you deserve it really!
Thank you! Sana you should have approached me, we can explore possible collaboration. about
Wow that’s nice, well maybe next year, i’m into that collab since i’m organizing a phototravel event. COOL!