Image - Maria Ressa
Image - Maria Ressa

Maria Ressa: Independent Journalism Under Attack

Perhaps nowhere is the worldwide erosion of democracy, fueled by social media disinformation campaigns, more starkly evident than in the authoritarian regime of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. Journalist Maria Ressa places the tools of the free press—and her freedom—on the line in defense of truth and democracy, and as a result she has faced a series of lawsuits, most recently resulting in a conviction for "cyberlibel" for reporting on Duterte.

What makes this outspoken journalist continue her work? What is the situation for independent journalists in The Philippines, where Duterte continues to receive sky-high approval ratings? 

Join us for an interview with Maria Ressa and Filipino-American documentary filmmaker Ramona S. Diaz. Diaz's new film, A Thousand Cuts, tells Ressa's story and explores the conflicts between the press and Duterte's government.

Speakers
Image - Maria Ressa

Maria Ressa

CEO and Executive Editor, Rappler; Journalist; Author

Image - Ramona S. Diaz

Ramona S. Diaz

Director, A Thousand Cuts

Image - Michelle Meow

Michelle Meow

Producer and Host, "The Michelle Meow Show" on KBCW/KPIX TV and Online Radio; Member, Commonwealth Club Board of Governors; Twitter @msmichellemeow—Co-Host

Image - John Zipperer

John Zipperer

Producer and Host, Week to Week Political Roundtable; Vice President of Media & Editorial, The Commonwealth Club—Co-host