De Lima seeks insurance coverage, hazard pay for journalists

With the Philippines considered one of the most dangerous countries for journalists, Sen. Leila de Lima has filed a bill that would require media entities to provide insurance benefits, including disability, health and hospitalization benefits, for journalists covering conflict or disaster areas.

She noted that at least nine journalists have been killed during the Duterte administration.

The group Reporters Without Borders listed the Philippines as deadliest country for journalists in Asia in a report released last December.

De Lima’s proposed law seeks disability benefits amounting to P350,000, reimbursements of medical costs of up to P200,000, and death benefits amounting to P300,000 for all journalists. —Leila B. Salaverria