By Perfecto T. Raymundo
QUEZON CITY — The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) and the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Wednesday (Aug. 27) formalized a partnership aimed at strengthening the safety and security of media workers nationwide.
“The work of journalists is vital in illuminating truth, empowering citizens, and strengthening democracy. Yet, too often, this work is met with harassment, threats, and violence,” Undersecretary Jose A. Torres Jr., PTFoMS Executive Director said.
“Today’s agreement is our roadmap for reversing that trend,” Torres said.
“It establishes concrete actions that will provide real protections, prompt responses, and justice for media workers in distress,” he added.
The key initiatives under the partnership are:
–Rapid Response Mechanism: Establishing a hotline, threat assessments, and temporary protective measures to swiftly address immediate dangers;
–Investigation and Accountability: Strengthening collaboration with legal and investigative agencies to ensure impartial, timely investigations into attacks;
–Victim Support: Providing legal and psychosocial assistance to victims and their families;
–Capacity Building and Prevention: Conducting gender-sensitive safety training for journalists and first responders;
–Data Monitoring: Sharing databases on threats, attacks, and investigations to identify patterns and inform policy;
–Legal and Policy Reforms: Advocating for measures to expedite investigations, strengthen witness protections, and address online harassment;
–Resources and Sustainability: Mobilizing human, technical, and financial resources to sustain protection initiatives; and
–Engagement and Awareness: Promoting ongoing dialogue with media organizations, civil society, and the public to foster a culture of respect and responsibility towards journalists
The partnership underscores the importance of measurable targets, transparency, and continual review
to ensure effective implementation.
“Protecting journalists is not just an obligation but a reflection of our commitment to democracy,
human rights, and the rule of law,” Torres said. ###
