The Manila Times

On NTC’s shutting down websites linked to CPP-NPA-NDFP

organizations. Does it promote terrorism? I think not. Rather, it is a rich source of information on how the national democratic movement perceives the world, irrespective of whether or not the reader agrees with the perspective.

The sites directly linked to the CPP-NPA-NDFP, some of which were shut down by the NTC, on the other hand, glorify armed struggle, including murder. The bragging about liquidations lays bare the lack of respect for human rights and due process. The connections between underground and above-ground organizations are exposed, while details about ambushes, liquidations and encounters are valuable for research purposes. Of course, one should always take any propaganda — one-sided information — with a grain of salt.

The marketplace of ideas is a key ingredient in a democracy where minds are sharpened by exposure to a variety of conflicting perspectives and appreciation of facts. The discerning mind would know how to distinguish propaganda from substance. As for ending insurgency, that purpose is hardly served by shutting down some websites and Facebook accounts. Armed struggle and revolution will remain appealing for as long as social, economic and political injustices persist.

Opinion

en-ph

2022-07-04T07:00:00.0000000Z

2022-07-04T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://digitaledition.manilatimes.net/article/281672553640965

The Manila Times