Decriminalization of libel: Implication to the Philippine criminal justice system and freedom of expression under the Philippine Constitution

Abstract

This descriptive qualitative research determined the implication of decriminalization of libel to the Philippine Criminal Justice System and the freedom of expression under the Philippine Constitution. The respondents of this study were the members of the pillars of the Criminal Justice System. A questionnaire designed by the researcher was used. The results revealed that the decriminalization of libel will greatly affect the Prosecution, Courts and the Community pillars of the Criminal Justice System but not much on the Law Enforcement and Correction pillars. Furthermore, the results also revealed that decriminalizing libel will eliminate certain restraints and will bolster freedom of expression.