“Such acts undermine press freedom and the essential role of the media in a democratic society,” said Jose Torres Jr., Executive Director of PTFOMS. “We do not tolerate attacks on media professionals who are performing their duties as responsible citizens during the elections. We will vigorously pursue cases against those found to be endangering the lives of journalists.”
The PTFOMS and the Philippine National Police’s Media Security Vanguards are investigating these incidents and will take appropriate action in coordination with media groups, Torres added. He urged the public and media members who witness or experience threats to press freedom or journalist safety to report these incidents promptly. “Document everything and report immediately,” he said.
Media personnel can report incidents of harassment and attacks via the PTFOMS Incident Report Form available online (https://forms.gle/hNizuXw7AhPn5DnN9) or through the QR code on the PTFOMS Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/PTFoMS).
Recent incidents include the attack on the vehicle of the former president of the Cagayan de Oro Press Club in Sagay, Camiguin, on May 10, which is currently under police investigation. On the same day, a news crew from TV 48 and radio DWNE in Nueva Ecija reported being threatened with a slingshot by a member of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team, with further aggressive actions from the Barangay Chairman. In Quezon City, radio reporter Rambo Labay faced intimidation from a group of men while covering vote-buying allegations.
These incidents have been formally reported to authorities, and the PTFOMS is reviewing them for potential legal action against the perpetrators.
As of Election Day, PTFOMS has recorded three incidents of possible election-related media threats, highlighting the ongoing challenges to journalist safety in the country.
On April 23, Romeo Gonzales, a DZRH provincial news correspondent, filed a complaint with the Philippine National Police in Baguio City, alleging threats from the mayor of La Paz, Abra, a congressional candidate, after Gonzales reported on a shooting incident.
Historically, the Philippines has faced numerous media-related challenges during elections, with journalists frequently encountering harassment and threats. These issues underscore the critical need for robust protection measures and the urgent implementation of accountability mechanisms to safeguard press freedom.
The PTFOMS remains dedicated to ensuring a secure environment for media practitioners and upholding democratic values during this critical period. (PTFOMS)
About the Author
