Mark Villar seeks measure to protect Filipino journalists

Sen. Mark Villar speaks in the Senate plenary in this file photo taken on September 25, 2023. Senate PRIB file photo / Voltaire F. Domingo

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Mark Villar on Monday reiterated his call for the protection of Filipino journalists following the brazen killing of radio broadcaster Juan Jumalon in Misamis Occidental.

In a statement on Monday, said he “deeply sympathize” with Jumalon’s family and friends.

“Our countrymen should not experience the loss of their loved ones while practicing their profession. As a legislator, I will seek measures that may protect our journalists,” said Villar.

Jumalon, a 57-year-old radio anchor and station manager of Gold FM 94.7, was gunned down by an unidentified assailant while doing a live broadcast on Sunday, November 5.

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In the same statement, Villar recalled his Senate Bill No. 2335 filed in July.

“I filed this bill because I recognize the hazard that comes with the journalism profession. Yet, it still comes as disheartening to know [of] the killing of Juan Jumalon while practicing his profession,” said the senator.

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The measure, otherwise known as the “Journalist Protection Act” aims to provide mandatory insurance coverage and benefits for journalists, freelance journalists, and employees of media entities on field assignments.

According to Villar, the bill also seeks to extend help to journalists and their families in bridging the costs and burden of disabilities and worst, death, in this field.

Villar noted that the bill has already been referred to the proper Senate panel and is awaiting further legislative actions.