Task force on media security cites 3 cases of media harassment
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MANILA, Philippines — The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) on Monday sounded the alarm over the reported harassments of some media personnel covering the 2025 midterm elections.
In a statement, PTFOMS Executive Director Jose Torres Jr. said such actions undermine press freedom and the essential role of the media in a democratic society.
“We do not tolerate attacks on media professionals who are performing their duties as responsible citizens during the elections,” said Torres.
“We will vigorously pursue cases against those found to be endangering the lives of journalists,” he warned.
PTFOMS is referring to the following recent incidents:
- Attack on the vehicle of the former president of the Cagayan de Oro Press Club in Sagay, Camiguin on May 10, which is currently under police investigation.
- On the same day, a news crew member from TV 48 and radio DWNE in Nueva Ecija reported being threatened with a slingshot by a member of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team, with further aggressive actions from the barangay chairman.
- In Quezon City, radio reporter Rambo Labay faced intimidation from a group of men while covering vote-buying allegations.
The task force said these instances have been formally reported to the authorities.
It is also reviewing the events for possible legal action against the perpetrators.
On May 12, PTFOMS said three incidents of “possible election-related media threats” were recorded.
“The PTFOMS and the Philippine National Police Media Security Vanguards are investigating these incidents and will take appropriate action in coordination with media groups,” Torres noted.
He also urged the public and media workers who witness or experience threats to press freedom or to the journalists’ safety to report these experiences promptly.
“Document everything and report immediately,” he said. /apl
