Lian Buan (Rappler)

Lian Buan is a senior investigative reporter at Rappler whose work has shaped national conversation around the Philippine justice system. She specialises in legal reporting with a focus on the gaps, failures and human consequences of both local and international justice mechanisms. Her coverage has spanned prison conditions, irregularities in high-level government procurements and the politics that quietly steer the judiciary—stories that require both rigor and tenacity.

Buan holds a Master of Laws degree in Human Rights from Birkbeck, University of London, where she studied as a Chevening scholar. She earned her undergraduate degree in journalism at the University of Santo Tomas. A two-time Jaime V Ongpin Journalism Fellow (2020–2021), she is recognised for her ability to navigate complex legal terrain and translate it into reporting that sharpens public understanding of accountability and the rule of law.

Lian Buan is recognised among the Tatler Most Influential Philippines along with fellow journalists Pia Ranada, Bea Cupin, JC Gotinga, Jairo Bolledo, Dwight de Leon, Ailla Dela Cruz and Patrick Cruz to represent Rappler, which has become a cornerstone of Philippine digital journalism and a globally recognised champion of press freedom.

Founded by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa and other veteran journalists, Rappler is known for its investigative reporting, data-driven storytelling and community participation. Rappler is also known for its early warnings on digital disinformation, its advocacy for responsible technology and its work in training the next generation of journalists through fellowships and newsroom innovation. Rappler’s influence extends beyond the Philippines: its reporting, research and press freedom advocacy have shaped international dialogue on democracy, online abuse and the future of independent media.