By Seth Cabanban
United States President Joe Biden congratulated journalists Maria Ressa and Dmitry Muratov for winning the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize on Friday, Oct. 8.
In a statement released through the official White House website, Biden applauded the two awardees for their dedication to journalism and their commitment to press freedom despite threats of physical harm, and possible legal persecution.
“Like so many journalists around the world, Ressa and Muratov have pursued the facts—tirelessly and fearlessly. They have worked to check the abuse of power, expose corruption, and demand transparency...they have faced constant threats, harassment and intimidation, legal action, and even, in the case of Muratov, the death of his colleagues,“ he stated.
“I, along with people everywhere, am grateful for their groundbreaking work to 'hold the line,' as Ressa so often says,” Biden added.
Biden also applauded the Nobel committee for honoring the two journalists and raising awareness on the pressures faced by journalists around the world.
“I applaud the Nobel Committee for honoring Ressa and Muratov’s incredible work and bringing greater attention to the increasing pressure on journalists, the free press, and freedom of expression all around the world.”
Rappler CEO Ressa and Russian journalist Muratov were awarded on Friday, Oct. 8, the Nobel Peace Prize "for their efforts to safeguard freedom of expression, which is a precondition for democracy and lasting peace."