Tonight, ABS-CBN signed off following the Cease and Desist order of the National Telecommunications Commission. The NTC’s decision to silence one of the biggest media outlets in the country is not only a blatant attack on press freedom, but has also affected the lives of the workers of ABS-CBN and the Filipino people. 

As the official student publication of the Ateneo de Manila Senior High School, we are one with ABS-CBN, who has been at the forefront of exposing the government’s actions and holding them accountable. We understand that the gravity of the government’s actions now extends to other media outlets like ours, as well as the freedom of expression of each Filipino. 

Now, more than ever, is the time to defend press freedom and the lives of Filipinos at risk. We cannot heed to this authoritative type of leadership just because. Democracy lies within the people — we need to be critical in our actions and fight for what is right. We must rise up and stand strong against the face of tyranny and outright injustice. 

What is happening now is a threat to the democracy of our nation. Let this matter become a wake-up call and a reminder that we must stay vigilant at all times. This is where we hold the line.