Activist and former two-term member of the Philippine House of Representatives. Blogging since 2004 at mongster's nest. Joined Global Voices in 2006.
Latest posts by Mong Palatino
A decade of digital repression and resistance in Southeast Asia
Global Voices Southeast Asia editor Mong Palatino highlights the major trends, challenges, and prospects of upholding freedom of expression in the region
Remembering the victims of nuclear weapons testing in the Marshall Islands
"Why was the most beautiful corner of the world, with the most beautiful and peaceful people, chosen for these horrific acts without our informed consent?"
Malaysian artists decry ‘Mentega Terbang’ film ban and blasphemy charge as ‘archaic form of content control’
"As a community that champions creative and artistic freedom, we must stand united in condemning any attempts to place undue restrictions on filmmakers or any artists."
Deadly tribal clashes destabilize Papua New Guinea
"We are asking for accountability from our members of Parliament. It doesn't matter whether they are in government or in opposition. This is a national crisis."
Young voters share demands ahead of Indonesian elections
"They all have their strengths and weaknesses. It’s hard and I need to decide carefully because we are all choosing who will lead this country for the next five years."
Can Indonesia's President Jokowi remain neutral while his son runs for vice president?
"We have the moral obligation to remind him to stay neutral in the election and that history will not judge him kindly for interfering with the democratic process."
Indonesian candidates urged to address human rights concerns
"Indonesia continues to fail to guarantee people’s rights to express their opinions peacefully amidst a shrinking civic space."
Indonesian court acquits two activists over charges of defaming government minister
"The government must also end reprisals against human rights defenders and allow human rights defenders and civil society organisations to operate freely and safely."
A New Zealand Minister’s ‘war’ with the media
"They don’t particularly like being answerable to the media and they like even less the scrutiny that comes with public office."
After a year in power, Malaysia’s Madani government falters on reform agenda
"The current government still attempts to restrict alternate views and the independence of media through the use of law and arbitrary practices."
How Indonesia’s ‘illiberal cyberlaw’ undermines free speech and human rights
"We regret that the Indonesian Parliament has passed the amendment to the ITE Law, which contains problematic articles that undermine freedom of expression and freedom of the press."
Myanmar’s ‘Spring Revolution’ in the United States
"The overwhelming support, protests and political education of the overseas Burmese community for the Spring Revolution has been critical to our victories."
From Hun Sen to Hun Manet: The worrying state of free speech in Cambodia
"Targeting journalists — particularly those who are reporting on human rights topics — undermines freedoms of expression and the press, which threatens the public’s access to information."
Australian journalist pushes back against anti-LGBTQ+ trolls
"I don't want people to feel like I'm not their broadcaster. But equally if I'm not my authentic self, I can't do my job well."
Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union: Climate justice or defense treaty?
"Offering residence or citizenship rights to Tuvaluans, though a compassionate response, does not halt the inexorable rise in sea levels."
Vanuatu’s political instability hampers development and cyclone recovery efforts
"Political instability is disrupting Vanuatu’s development and service delivery to our communities across all islands."
Myanmar anti-junta activist pens a rap song seeking justice for his murdered parents
"I want to create a piece of art that will last and that demands justice for my parents, in case I die before the revolution succeeds."
Filipino radio host killed during live broadcast
"This barbaric act reflects the broader peril of democratic discourse in the Philippines. It is a manifestation of an alarming, ongoing trend that casts a dark shadow over independent media."
‘Historic day for Fiji’ as it revives its media council
"It acts as a platform where people in the media world can talk, work together, and resolve any issues that come up."
Malaysian editor of banned book faces police probe for sedition
"Kean Wong’s arrest demonstrates the State’s concerted effort to suppress the public’s ability to both inform and to speak out without fear of censorship."
‘I can see the entirety of the sky now’: Australian journalist Cheng Lei is now free
"Tight hugs, teary screams, holding my kids in the spring sunshine. Trees shimmy from the breeze. I can see the entirety of the sky now! Thank you Aussies."