Summary
Highlights
The documentary delves into Rodrigo Duterte's political career, his tough stance on crime and drugs as mayor, and his eventual rise to the presidency. His brutal war on drugs, which began immediately after his inauguration, led to thousands of extrajudicial killings, as reported by Rappler. The government's claim of self-defense for these killings is questioned, exposing a war on the poor.
Rappler investigates disinformation networks attacking media outlets, revealing how fake accounts influence millions and spread hate speech. Maria Ressa describes receiving intense backlash and hate messages after reporting on the weaponization of the internet and Facebook's impact on democracy. President Duterte publicly attacks Rappler, leading to subpoenas, attempts to revoke their license, and multiple legal cases against Ressa and her organization.
Maria Ressa is arrested on cyber-libel charges, which she calls an abuse of power and weaponization of the law, especially as the law was applied retroactively to an article published before the law's enactment. This is the first of many arrests and charges that aim to intimidate her and Rappler, despite international condemnation from journalists' organizations.
A harrowing account of a drug war killing is shared, illustrating the trauma inflicted on families and the dehumanizing behavior of some journalists. This segment emphasizes the brutal reality of Duterte's campaign and the ongoing impact on individuals and communities.
Duterte supporters protest at Rappler's office, accusing Maria Ressa of destroying the country and being foreign-controlled, further highlighting the polarized environment. Despite the threats and vilification, Maria continues her work, and Facebook taking down hate-inciting content provides a small victory.
Maria Ressa reflects on her relentless schedule and the financial burden of her legal battles, which prevent her from spending time with her family. She draws parallels between the populist leaders in the Philippines and the US, emphasizing the global nature of disinformation and the need for action to protect journalism and democracy worldwide.
Maria Ressa is repeatedly arrested on various charges, including fraud, further demonstrating the government's escalating efforts to silence her. Despite the personal risk and exhaustion, she returns to the Philippines each time, determined to continue her fight for press freedom, seeing it as her home and a critical battleground for democracy.
Rappler journalists, including Pia Ranada, are banned from Malacañang, restricting their access to official information. This direct censorship, coupled with the ongoing legal battles, highlights the government's overt attempts to stifle dissent. Pia Ranada's emotional plea at the Supreme Court underscores the immense pressure and personal toll on journalists, yet also the resilience and collective spirit of the Rappler team.
The government releases a "coup plot matrix" implicating Rappler and other independent news organizations in a supposed conspiracy, paving the way for potential non-bailable charges. Maria Ressa discusses confronting fear and preparing for the worst-case scenario, including imprisonment, acknowledging the emotional burden this places on those around her while maintaining her resolve not to be intimidated.
General Bato Dela Rosa is questioned on the effectiveness of the war on drugs, revealing its failure to curb drug use while leading to thousands of deaths. The segment highlights the 2019 senatorial elections, where opposition candidates fail to win any seats, solidifying President Duterte's power and further endangering the checks and balances within the government, leaving the Senate as the last independent body.
Maria Ressa is convicted of cyber-libel, facing up to six years in prison. She declares that the conviction serves as a cautionary tale meant to instill fear, but urges people not to be afraid and to use their rights, as inaction will lead to their loss. The documentary concludes with a powerful message of resilience against the 'thousand cuts' on democracy.
Maria Ressa, founder of Rappler, discusses the polarized information ecosystem in the Philippines and the government's use of alternative news sources to spread propaganda. She highlights the challenge of countering disinformation and holding the government accountable for its actions, especially concerning the violent war on drugs.