Philippines: CFWIJ Condemns Misogynistic Attack Against Journalist Raissa Robles
Location: Philippines, Manila
Date: February 9, 2022
Notorious lawyer films himself launching a sexist tirade directed at respected Filipino journalist Raissa Robles. The reporter has decided to take legal action. The Coalition For Women In Journalism stands in solidarity with Raissa Robles and unequivocally condemns the deplorable act of harassment she has endured. We urge the courts to prosecute her complaints swiftly.
On February 4, 2022, Raissa filed complaints before the Quezon City Office of the Prosecutor against lawyer Larry Gadon concerning a video of him verbally abusing the journalist. The charges include libel, cyber libel, and violation of the Safe Spaces Act.
In her complaint, Raissa described the attack as "egregious, shocking, and horrific." Describing Gadon's language as brutal, dehumanizing, misogynistic, and sexist, Raissa emphasized the impact of his remarks in her complaint. She expressed concerns that Gadon's actions could inspire further verbal sexual attacks, mainly targeting women engaging in political discussions online.
In the video, Gadon can be seen repeatedly cursing Raissa and making derogatory insinuations about her. He then shared the video with his media Viber group, which has over 100 members. Shortly after, the video was uploaded to social media platforms.
Gender-based online harassment in the Philippines is a punishable offense, carrying a prison sentence of up to six years and a fine ranging from approximately $1800 to $9000.
Gadon, a former senatorial candidate now an advisor to President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., targeted Raissa in response to her critical comments regarding Marcos' tax conviction, which has led to several disqualification cases against the dictator's son.
Gadon has faced scrutiny for his controversial behavior before. In 2019, the Supreme Court suspended him for violating professional conduct rules prohibiting lawyers from using abusive and offensive language. The court issued a stern warning, cautioning that further infractions would be dealt with more severely.
In June 2023, the Supreme Court permanently disbarred Gadon for his "misogynistic, sexist, and abusive remarks" directed at Raissa in a rare move.
Targeting of journalists in Philippines
Raissa told CFWIJ that the targeting of mainstream Filipino journalists began shortly after Rodrigo Duterte assumed his presidency in 2016.
She quoted Duterte's statement from that year, warning journalists that they are not free from harm, stating, "Just because you're a journalist, you are not exempted from assassination."
In 2021, CFWIJ documented the persistent online harassment of journalist Inday Espina-Varona. After Duterte came to power, the threats and slurs she experienced from online trolls left her fearing for her safety.
Raissa emphasized that press freedom in the Philippines is only maintained through journalists' insistence and willingness to endure personal risks to their physical and mental health.
The Coalition For Women In Journalism strongly condemns Gadon's attempt to degrade Raissa's dignity. Sexist harassment can directly impact journalists' careers and personal lives, particularly women journalists. We stand in support of Raissa as she fights this legal battle against Gadon and urge the authorities to take all necessary measures to hold him accountable.
The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.
If you have been harassed or abused in any way, and please report the incident by using the following form.