Forum tackles how government protects the media

CEBU, Philippines — To explain how the government protects journalists and provides legal assistance, the Cebu Citizens Press Council (CCPC) yesterday held a forum titled “Harassing, Killing Journalists: How ‘Media Security’ From Government Works”.

The forum, held at the Marcelo B. Fernan Cebu Press Center, coincided with National Press Freedom Day, which commemorates the birth of Marcelo H. del Pilar, known as the Father of Philippine Journalism. The day was declared under Republic Act No. 11699.

Maria G-Ree Calinawan, regional public attorney for the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) discussed the renewed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between PAO and the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS).

The MOA, first signed 12 years ago and recently renewed in July 2025, allows PAO to provide legal aid, seminars, and assistance for journalists facing cases linked to their reporting. PAO services include drafting affidavits, documentation, and legal representation for journalists accused in cases related to their duties.

Calinawan clarified that PAO does not handle criminal complaints where journalists themselves are complainants. In Cebu, media personnel earning up to ?22,000 per month may qualify for assistance.

“The public attorney’s office, no matter what you think our services are, we are always available to help you,” Calinawan said, “there might be a dissatisfaction in the services but nevertheless our office is still open to anybody who would want to get our services, and we will do our best to fight for your rights not just as an ordinary person but also as a media personnel that would want the truth to always come out.”

Ariel Sebelleno, executive director of the Philippine Press Institute, highlighted programs for student journalists, including the Collegiate Press Program, which trains students in safe reporting, media laws, and professional skills. He also noted the broader role of PTFoMS in coordinating media security and raising awareness among journalists.

Veteran journalist Rico Osmeña shared his experience surviving an ambush on December 16, 2021, which authorities suggested may be linked to his reporting on smuggling operations involving carrots and cabbage from China. While no suspects have been proven guilty, Osmeña said the alleged mastermind was a businessman claiming to be a “pro-Duterte supporter”, illustrating the risks journalists face in pursuing their work.

“Telling the truth can kill you,” Osmeña said.

The PAO’s MOA with PTFoMS will remain in effect until December 31, 2025, but PAO will continue to provide legal aid through its previous agreement with the National Press Club, signed in 2009. — (FREEMAN)