PNP to journalists with death threats: Be alert, watchful

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) advised members of media who have been receiving death threats to be alert and watchful of their surroundings.

“Be aware of anything unusual around you,” said Senior Superintendent Expedito Orillo of the PNP-Directorate for Intelligence during the PNP-sponsored seminar on “Security and Preventive Measures for Media Personalities” at Camp Crame in Quezon City.

Orillo said everyone should be security-conscious while at home and on the way to and from work.

“This (awareness) doesn’t mean you will become paranoid. We just want you to be security-conscious and not become an easy target. We only have one life,” said Orillo.

Orillo’s lecture for members of the media from different publications, networks, and press corps was part of the effort of the PNP to minimize killings of members of the media.

“If you receive death threats, report (these) to the police, tell (these) to somebody you trust and take positive actions,” he said.

Orillo said before boarding their car, journaliss should first look around, check what is unusual around or with the car itself since attackers may have planted something in the vehicle.

While driving, Orillo said journalists should be conscious of the plate numbers of the vehicles behind them, and  “while walking, people must be aware of other people following you.”

“If you have made two or three turns already but noticed that the vehicle behind you is still trailing you… take down the vehicle’s plate number. Don’t go home immediately and try to shake them off by going in crowded places such as malls where many people can see them,” he explained.

Orillo also said journalists should also develop a network of sources who can help them find out the identities of people threatening them.

After Orillo’s lecture, reporters were given training on the proper handling of firearms with the supervision of PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Nicanor Bartolome and other PNP officials.

“Firing (of guns) is not the solution but it could be one of the solutions (in preventing media killings),” said Chief Superintendent Reynado Rafal, of the PNP-Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management.  – Cecille Suerte Felipe