In a response to the criminal case filed against her by the Kapisanan ng Social Media Broadcasters ng Pilipinas (KSMBPI), content creator Toni Fowler has issued an official statement defending her artistic expression and asserting her rights.
The case alleged violations of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 in connection with her music video.
Fowler’s statement begins by challenging the authority of those who do not identify as women to lead discussions on sexual topics. She argues that discussions related to sexuality are a fundamental part of the human experience and should not be subject to prohibition or control by external parties.
Hindi kayo ang karapat-dapat na manguna sa pagpuna lalo na sa mga usaping sexual naming kababaihan dahil unang-una, hindi ito bawal at hindi kayo babae. Bahagi ng bawat tao ang libog, at bahagi ng ating karanasan ang pakikipag-talik at pag-gamit ng sex toys.
— Toni Fowler (@tonifowlerpo) September 29, 2023
The content creator further emphasizes her ownership of her body, experiences, opinions, and identity as a woman, asserting that no one should have the power to dictate or restrict her actions or choices.
Fowler’s statement also highlights the importance of embracing diversity and individuality, underlining the need to avoid shame or embarrassment when discussing sexual aspects of the human body or the concept of sexual intimacy. She contends that open discussions on such topics promote awareness and understanding.
Addressing specific claims made against her, Fowler clarifies that her music video did not show “sex organs” but rather displayed sex toys. She calls for clarity in accusations and defends her artistic freedom to create content that may involve explicit scenes, emphasizing that this does not equate to promoting or endorsing such behavior.
Para sa KSMBPI, nais kong punahin at sagutin ang kasinungalingan ninyo sa media.
— Toni Fowler (@tonifowlerpo) September 29, 2023
Fowler challenges double standards in the entertainment industry, pointing out that violent scenes, including deaths, are often depicted on prime-time television. She questions the differentiation between her content and the involvement of child actors in R-18 films.
Fowler advocates for open discussions about sexuality, considering it an integral part of the human experience.
In her closing statements, Toni Fowler asserts her courage in facing the charges against her and expresses her determination to fight for her rights and artistic expression. She calls for responsible research and clarifies that she did not provide alcohol to anyone during the shooting of her music video.
Fowler challenges the claim of a minor’s involvement, drawing comparisons to teenage actors performing sexual scenes on television dramas.
Sa huli, gusto kong sabihin sa inyo na matapang kong haharapin ang mga kasong inihain ninyo laban sa akin dahil kahit na ano pa ang itawag ninyo sa akin, taas noo ko itong haharapin at sasabihing ako’y tahimik lang sa umpisa,pero marunong akong lumaban kahit di ninyo ako pilitin.
— Toni Fowler (@tonifowlerpo) September 29, 2023
Toni Fowler’s statement reflects her commitment to artistic freedom and the importance of open discussions about sexuality while addressing the legal challenges she currently faces. It underscores the broader debate around freedom of expression in the digital age.
