"The conviction last week of community journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio has intensified concerns in the Philippines about how counterterrorism laws are being applied, particularly their impact on critical journalism and civic dissent. After nearly six years in detention awaiting trial, Cumpio was convicted on January 22 of financing terrorism and sentenced to 12 to 18 years in prison. She denies the charges."
"In its ruling, the Regional Trial Court in Tacloban City said it found Cumpio and her co-accused, lay worker Marielle Domequil, guilty of making funds and logistical support available to members of the New People's Army, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, which was designated as a terrorist group by the local Anti-Terrorism Council. The prosecution's case was built entirely on witness testimony."
Community journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio was convicted on January 22 of financing terrorism and sentenced to 12 to 18 years after nearly six years detained awaiting trial. The conviction alleges she provided funds and logistical support to the New People's Army, designated a terrorist group by the Anti-Terrorism Council. The prosecution relied solely on witness testimony without documentary or photographic evidence. Legal experts and activists warn that broadly framed counterterrorism laws are being weaponized against journalists, development workers, and civil society groups, and that the ruling could set a worrying precedent for similar charges.
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