Groups whose internet websites have been ordered blocked for alleged links with the Communist Party of the Philippines may seek legal remedies if they oppose the move, Acting Presidential Spokesman Martin Andanar said Wednesday.
Andanar issued the advice after the National Telecommunication Communications (NTC) demanded internet service providers in the country to block the websites of over 200 supposed "CPP-linked" groups upon the request of National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr.
Among websites blocked were those owned by progressive groups Save Our Schools Network, Pamalakaya Pilipinas and BAYAN as well as independent news organizations Bulatlat and Pinoy Weekly.
"The recent move of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to block certain websites is upon the request of the National Security Council in performance of its mandate," Andanar said in a statement.
"Legal remedies are available to any party, including online media outfit Bulatlat, affected by this action," he added.