MANILA, Philippines — The Presidential Task Force on Media Security performs a “crucial role” in protecting the country’s press freedom, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Wednesday as he greeted its members on its fifth anniversary.
“The task force plays a crucial role in safeguarding press freedom that is vital in a nation’s vibrant democracy,” Duterte said in a video message.
“It also helps ensure that the rights and welfare of the press are well protected and upheld,” he added.
Duterte likewise hoped that the members of the task force will continue to fulfill their “mandate with utmost excellence and commitment.”
Recently, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque downplayed the threats to the country’s press freedom, saying there is no censorship.
Roque’s statement came after journalist Maria Ressa, also the chief executive officer of digital news outlet Rappler won a Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to protect press freedom and freedom of expression in the Philippines.
In 2020, the Philippines ranked seventh out of 12 countries considered the most dangerous for journalists, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists.