Benefits for journalists in conflict zones sought

A lawmaker is pushing for death and disability benefits, medical reimbursement as well as tax-exempt hazard pay for journalists deployed in calamity and conflict areas and war zones. In House Bill No. 6543, House Deputy Speaker Rep. Camille Villar stressed that it is time that journalists “deserve the respect not only for the type of work that they are doing, but also in the form of benefits that are long overdue.” “While some may not enjoy decent wages, it is necessary that journalists enjoy these perks as they have families that rely on them,” part of the bill’s explanatory note read. Villar pointed out that the Philippines has consistently ranked among the world’s most dangerous countries for journalists after Syria and Iraq.

—Julie M. Aurelio