Remulla on expiration of PTFoMS chief’s term: I was not informed

FILE PHOTO: Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) head Paul Gutierrez. INQUIRER FILES

MANILA, Philippines — Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said he was “not properly informed” about the expiration of journalist Paul Gutierrez’s term as executive director of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS).

Remulla said it through a Viber message to reporters on Wednesday when asked for confirmation on Gutierrez’s term expiration.

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But Gutierrez himself confirmed the news after a document signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin was released online, showing that his post has “expired” and is “effective immediately.”

“I thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the opportunity to serve under his administration even for the brief duration of 1 year and 14 weeks since my appointment on May 25, 2023,” Gutierrez said.

“His decision to continue with the PTFoMS is the clearest message to all that he is committed to creating a safe media environment where every member of the press can practice their profession responsibly, professionally, and without fear,” he added.

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The PTFoMS was created under Administrative Order No. 1 series of 2016 to protect the life, liberty, and security of media workers.

The Department of Justice oversees the PTFoMS and makes sure that cases related to media workers are properly investigated.