Senators have congratulated journalist Maria Ressa for winning this year's Nobel Peace Prize.
Senator Risa Hontiveros praised Ressa for being the first Filipino to win the most prestigious recognition in the world. The Norweigan Nobel Committee recognized Ressa, along with Russia's Dmitry Muratov, "for their efforts to safeguard freedom of expression".
"She has made our country stronger. She has shown that Filipinos cannot simply be silenced. She has taught us that we have courage. She has taught us that we can hold the line," Hontiveros said on Twitter on Friday, October 8.
Senator Panfilo Lacson also said that Ressa deserves to be congratulated for the award.
"But more than the prestige that comes with the award, is the responsibility of continuing to uphold the freedom of expression - the reason for the award," Lacson said in a statement on Saturday, October 9.
"It is hoped that the Nobel Peace Prize will further inspire the responsible practice of journalism for the good of all," he added.
Like Lacson, Senator Grace Poe hoped that Ressa will serve as an inspiration to Filipinos.
"Maria Ressa has shown us what it takes to uphold press freedom. It requires courage and constancy, especially because the pursuit of truth and justice can often be dangerous. Her unflinching trailblazing deeds, using the information platform effectively, have helped us discern beyond the news," Poe said in a statement.
"We hope Maria's tenacity and passion in her mission will inspire the Filipino people, especially amid the health crisis and as we close in on another political crossroad with the national elections next year. Her Nobel Peace Prize award solidifies her place not only as one of the country's journalism icons, but also all over the world," she said.
Ressa, co-founder and chief executive officer of online news website Rappler, is known for speaking out against the abuse of power, violence and human rights violations during President Duterte's administration.
The Nobel Peace Prize will be presented in December.