MANILA, Philippines – Reactions to the implementation of the CyberCrime Act of 2012 or Republic Act No. 10175 on Wednesday, September 3, 2012 were those of protests and website hacking.
Several concerned sectors were out in the street stating that the CyberCrime Prevention Act of 2012 violates their Freedom of Speech. On Twitter, users aired their reactions. Tweets are not attributed to persons to protect them because of the danger of libel charges.
“Ninoy Aquino died for the Filipino’s freedom of speech, now his son Noynoy is taking it away from us #NoToCyberCrimeLaw :(“
“Is censoring the internet and violating our freedom of speech what you call PROGRESS? Apparently the government thinks so #NoToCyberCrimeLaw”
“No More Fun In the Philippines because there’s No More Freedom of Speech.”
Some government websites were also hacked and defaced. The NBI said that “The end does not justify the means,” and appealed for calm and reason.
According to local news, Senator Chiz Escudero stated that the insertion of the libel clause was a “mistake,” and that he will take steps to correct the error.
Meanwhile,” #NoToCybercrimeLaw” trends worldwide, as Netizens in the Philippines joined forces to protest against the implementation of the CyberCrime Prevention Act of 2012 or Republic Act No. 10175.
