Inquirer file photo
MANILA, Philippines — Conveners of the 1st Philippine Media Safety Summit called on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to take concrete steps to support a critical press, noting that he once said this “best serves national interest.”
As he delivers his third State of the Nation Address (Sona) today, various media groups urge the President to prioritize legislative measures to decriminalize libel and enact a Freedom of Information (FOI) law.
“The President himself said it in April: ‘The principal role of the press is not to applaud those who govern, but [to] hold us accountable, without holding back in giving praise to those who deserve it. Along with that stance is our collective goal of protecting the welfare and lives of journalists,’” the conveners representing various media groups said.
READ: ‘Freedom of info’ under more Palace restrictions
“Now is the time for Marcos to keep his promise and include efforts to ensure a ‘truly free and safe environment for all journalists’ in his Sona legislative priority,” they added.
Red-tagging
The conveners also urged the President to make a clear stand on Red-tagging, after the Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling in May declaring it a threat to people’s life, liberty and security.
The media groups also pushed for the removal of a provision in the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2022 that includes journalists as possible witnesses in drug cases.
“For as long as this provision is not removed, journalists are at risk of being cited for contempt or subjected to arrest warrants for not showing up in courts as witnesses in drug cases,” the groups said.
Several measures have been filed before Congress seeking to decriminalize libel, which has been weaponized against journalists and used as tool to shield public officials against criticisms and defamatory utterances.
While the previous administration of Rodrigo Duterte had issued an executive order on FOI, the directive only covered departments and offices under the executive branch.
The media groups said a legislated FOI will promote transparency in government, adding that this also has the support of business groups.
CHR commends PNP
Meanwhile, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has acknowledged the commitment of the Philippine National Police to uphold the right to peaceful assembly during the President’s address today.
“The Sona serves as a significant event for the government to state its accomplishments and plans, demonstrating its commitment to transparency, accountability and the welfare of the nation,” the CHR said in a statement on Sunday, adding that the annual presidential address is “a vital platform for various groups and individuals to express their views … on critical national issues which are integral to a vibrant and thriving democracy.”
The CHR expressed its appreciation for the PNP’s pledge to adhere to Batas Pambansa No. 880, which ensures the citizens’ right to peaceful assembly. —with a report from Russel Loreto