Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana expressed on Thursday, June 23, his support to the order of National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. to block the websites of the groups and personalities identified with the communist rebels.
Lorenzana explained that the order relayed to the National Telecommunication Commission (NTC) cannot be considered as stifling of the freedom of speech of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), National Democratic Front and other alleged front organizations of the communist rebels.
"I am in agreement with Secretary Esperon. We are not against free speech, in fact we encourage and protect it. It is disinformation against the government that we are against," said Lorenzana.
In an order dated June 8, the NTC ordered internet service providers to block the websites in compliance with the letter from Esperon.
At least 22 websites were blocked.
Lorenzana said the move will decrease the disinformation being done by the communist-linked groups.
"The disinformation will decrease and it will prevent the recruitment of more youths," said Lorenzana.
"They are so gullible and susceptible to propaganda and disinformation," he added.
Lorenzana expressed confidence that the move will also of big help in finally defeating communist insurgency problems in the country.