More measures to protect journalists sought

MANILA, Philippines — With nearly 200 journalists killed across the country since 1986, the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) is seeking more measures to protect workers in the media industry.

PTFoMS chief Jose Torres Jr. said he is coordinating with different media groups to know their concerns and the challenges that journalists are facing.

“We want to continue defending and pushing genuine press freedom in the country,” Torres said during a meeting with journalists covering the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday.

Torres discussed with members of the PNP Press Corps his plans and programs intended to protect journalists from threats to their lives and security.

Data from the PTFoMS showed that 199 journalists have been killed since 1986. Of the figure, 75 or 37.63 percent were killed because of their work, and 73 or 38.68 percent because of other motives such as land disputes and family conflicts, Torres said.

He did not provide details about the 51 other victims.

Torres said there are challenges in bringing perpetrators of crimes against media workers to justice. Among these is the lack of witnesses.

“The problem is no one files charges. Most of our friends and colleagues in media do not file cases,” he said.

Torres urged journalists to seek help from the PTFoMS when the need arises.