NO MAN is an island. Societal growth depends on the passionate exchange of ideas and perspectives among its people. For a society to be fruitful, everyone should talk about everything, whether on topics they are uncomfortable with and let the best ideas win.
A healthy society is shaped by the ability of individuals to form rational ideas. There is nothing more important in a democracy than free speech and debate.
As activist Deeyah Khan once said, “Freedom of speech is a human right and the foundation upon which democracy is built. Any restriction of freedom of speech is a restriction upon democracy.”
It is undeniable that one of the fundamental pillars of a democratic society is freedom of speech, which protects the ability of individuals to voice out their concerns and opinions and criticize the government without the fear of prosecution. On top of that, it is an essential instrument for keeping politicians responsible.
Democracy thrives when people are free to speak out against injustice, demand answers, and question authority without fear of retaliation. The legitimacy of government is compromised when citizens cannot hold their leaders accountable for their actions.
Without this freedom, all other liberties will crumble. This is enshrined in the 1987 Constitution of the Philippines, particularly Article III, Section 4, which states:
“No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, expression, press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government to redress grievances.”
Free speech has always been the heart of social justice, environmental, and civil rights campaigns. The freedom to express opinions, develop new ideas, and rally others behind a cause propels society forward.
In Chavez v. Gonzales, the Supreme Court held that the freedom of expression in the Constitution is protected against restraint and censorship. This freedom has been tested and ultimately failed numerous times throughout Philippine history.
Freedom of speech has played a pivotal role in shaping the history of the Philippines. During the Spanish colonial era, figures like José Rizal and Marcelo H. del Pilar used their writings to expose injustices and advocate for reforms, laying the groundwork for the Philippine Revolution.
Moreover, the 1986 People Power Revolution demonstrated the power of free expression, as millions of Filipinos took to the streets, toppling a dictator. Today, activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens continue to exercise their right to free speech to call out corruption, push for human rights, and advocate for environmental protection, ensuring that democracy remains for the people, by the people, and of the people.
Nevertheless, accountability is a responsibility that comes with this freedom because, again, this freedom is not absolute. People should be careful not to instigate violence, disseminate false information, or damage democratic institutions when expressing their opinions, although they have the right to do so.
Genuine democracy is based not only on the liberty to express oneself freely but also on the obligation to maintain honesty, equity, and consideration for one another.
- Irish Mae U. Caracena and Rochelle Bhea J. Sotomayor
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Irish Mae U. Caracena and Rochelle Bhea J. Sotomayor are students from the University of Cebu-Main Campus. They are currently enrolled in the institution’s political science program.