What is the meaning of this “concern” US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim expressed in a tweet he issued the other day over the guilty verdict handed down by a Philippine court on Rappler CEO Maria Ressa?
Is Ambassador Kim suggesting that the United States has a legal opinion or even a say on the ruling of a Philippine court? Kim also seems to suggest said ruling is an issue that requires some sort of “resolution”. Thing is, a verdict issued by a Philippine court by and of itself represents resolution of said case. So what further resolution does the United States seek?
The disturbing part of Kim’s statement is the part where he asserts that said resolution should be effected “in a way that reinforces the U.S. and Philippines’ shared commitment to freedom of expression, including for members of the press.” Really? So it seems the United States sees itself as being in a position to assert its preferred outcome of a court proceeding.
That smacks of intervention and, worse, imperialism right there. The communists should be hitting the streets and jumping up and down with indignation right this very minute!
Webmaster of Get Real Philippines