This petition is a dignified and solemn petition and appeal to Rappler CEO, Maria Ressa to issue a formal apology over the publication of a defamatory news article on the passing of Brother Eli Soriano in the Philippines. 

I believe there was no need to mention legal cases against him at the time of his death and that he ‘fled’ the Philippines. This is factually incorrect. Bro Soriano sought permission from the court to travel abroad, just as Ms Ressa also did, following her recent outstanding legal cases and even conviction against her for cyber libel. I would ask that Rappler publish the apology on their Rappler news website for the offence caused to the family and members of his congregation.