CHR: Attacks on media shows ‘shrinking democratic space for free speech’

MANILA, Philippines—The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Thursday said the continued attacks against members of the press shows the “shrinking democratic space for free speech and expression” in the Philippines.

“The increasing number of attacks against members of the press around the country signifies the shrinking democratic space for free speech and expression,” CHR spokesperson Jacqueline Ann de Guia said in a statement.

The CHR said these “blatant” human rights violations demand “stronger government action to ensure the protection, safety, and freedom of media workers.”

The Commission issued the statement as it condemned the killing of radio broadcaster Dindo Generoso in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental.

Generoso, a blocktimer of Bai Radio, was on his way to work when an unidentified gunman opened fire at his car in Barangay Piapi around 7:30 a.m.

READ: Radioman gunned down in Dumaguete City

Generoso is the second reported journalist killed by gunmen in Dumaguete after Edmond Sestoso in 2018, the Commission noted.

The CHR urged the local government of Negros Oriental and the police to ensure the immediate arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators with the full force of the law.

It also extended its condolences to the family of Generoso and vowed to conduct its own investigation of the case.  /muf