Filipino journalist Frenchie Cumpio found guilty of terror financing in verdict rights groups call ‘absurd’ | Philippines
A Filipino journalist, Frenchie Cumpio, 26, was found guilty of terror financing on Thursday after nearly six years of detention. Her former roommate, Marielle Domequil, received the same guilty verdict and sentencing. The ruling, handed down by judge Georgina Uy Perez of the Tacloban regional court, carries a prison term of 12 to 18 years.
The Case Against Cumpio
Cumpio, a community journalist and radio broadcaster, and Domequil were initially arrested in February 2020 on charges of possessing a handgun and a grenade. Over a year later, a charge of terror financing was added to the case, carrying a potential 40-year sentence. While convicted of terror financing, both women were acquitted on the original weapons charge.
Concerns Over Due Process
The case has drawn significant criticism from human rights organizations and international observers. The Clooney Foundation for Justice questioned the length of Cumpio’s detention in October, citing “repeated postponements and slow progress.” UN special rapporteur Irene Khan previously stated the charges against Cumpio appeared to be “in retaliation for her work as a journalist.”
“Red-Tagging” and its Implications
Cumpio and her advocates maintain she is a victim of “red-tagging,” a practice where the government links critics to a long-running communist insurgency in an attempt to silence dissent. Lawyers for Cumpio stated the country’s anti-terror law is being used “as a ready and convenient weapon against dissenters in this society.”
Reactions to the Verdict
Beh Lih Yi, Asia-Pacific director of the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), condemned the court’s decision, stating it demonstrates that pledges by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to uphold press freedom are “nothing but empty talk.” CPJ noted this is the first instance of a journalist being charged with financing terrorism in the Philippines. Aleksandra Bielakowska, advocacy manager for Reporters Without Borders, described the verdict as a “blatant disregard for press freedom.”
Outside the courthouse, supporters, including Cumpio’s mother, Lala, were blocked by riot police. Lala had regularly visited Cumpio in prison, bringing groceries, medication, and food from Jollibee.
What Happens Next?
Cumpio’s lawyer, Norberto Robel, indicated his team will file an appeal. A pending application for bail remains under consideration. It is possible Cumpio and Domequil could remain imprisoned while the appeal is processed. The outcome of the appeal could lead to a retrial, a reduced sentence, or ultimately, their release.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges were Frenchie Cumpio and Marielle Domequil initially arrested on?
Cumpio and Domequil were initially arrested in February 2020 on weapons charges, accused of possessing a handgun and a grenade.
What was the sentence handed down to Frenchie Cumpio and Marielle Domequil?
Both Frenchie Cumpio and Marielle Domequil were sentenced to 12-18 years in prison after being found guilty of terror financing.
Who has criticized the court’s decision?
Human rights groups, including the Clooney Foundation for Justice and the Committee to Protect Journalists, as well as UN special rapporteur Irene Khan, have criticized the court’s decision.
Given the international scrutiny and ongoing legal challenges, what does this case suggest about the future of press freedom in the Philippines?