Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC

Ms Ressa’s news organisation Rappler has been notified of the conclusion of proceedings launched by the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) almost a decade ago.

The decision followed the Solicitor General’s move to withdraw its further challenge to earlier Appeal Court rulings in Rappler’s favour.

Ms Ressa still faces other proceedings brought against her as part of what her lawyers describe as a “state-sponsored campaign of harassment initiated by the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte” – meaning she faces potentially decades in prison.

She remains convicted of “cyberlibel” and is currently on bail awaiting a final decision by the Philippine Supreme Court. If the conviction is upheld, she will be arrested and face a prison sentence of up to seven years.

Ms Ressa also still faces separate criminal proceedings for alleged tax violations, linked to charges of “foreign ownership” which have now been effectively debunked by the courts.

A campaign of “lawfare” against Ms Ressa and Rappler has been widely condemned internationally, including by the United Nations, the US Department of State, the US Congress, the European Union and the Media Freedom Coalition of 50 states.

Amal Clooney and Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC lead Ms Ressa’s international legal team, which includes lawyers Can Yeginsu and Nadine Reiner as well as Peter Lichtenbaum, Stephen Rademaker and former Ambassador Daniel Feldman of Covington & Burling LLP, working alongside domestic counsel in the Philippines.

Ms Clooney said: “This is an important victory for Maria Ressa and journalists across the Philippines.

“I welcome the position taken by the Solicitor General in this case and the court rulings recognising the paramount importance of the press in a free society.

“I hope the courts will resolve the remaining cases against Maria in line with these same values.”

Ms Gallagher said: “This is a significant and welcome victory for our client, Maria Ressa, and for Rappler, following a legal battle stretching for almost a decade.

“This should be a pivot point for Maria, Rappler, and for press freedom and the rule of law in the Philippines.

“We hope this positive direction of travel will continue as the remaining cases against Maria reach resolution.”