Mindanao journalists mark int’l day to end crimes vs. media

REMEMBERED. Journalists in the Davao Region gather in candle lighting event at the site where publisher Dennis Denora was shot dead in Panabo City. Media workers in Mindanao on Friday marked International Day to end impunity for Crimes against Journalists. (Photo courtesy of MIPC via PNA)

KIDAPAWAN CITY — Journalists here and in neighboring areas joined other members of the press across Mindanao on Friday for candle lighting events that were organized to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.

The candle lighting here was held at the grounds of the Notre Dame Broadcasting Corp. along Daang Maharlika, as similar events were simultaneously held in the cities of Tacurong, Zamboanga, Davao, Tagum, Ozamis and Cagayan de Oro.

The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution in 2013 declaring Nov. 2 as International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.

In a statement, the Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) said it joins colleagues from around the world in calling for a stop to crimes committed against journalists.

“Let us remember those who sacrificed and died while doing a legitimate story in the quest for truth. Their death should be our strength in seeking truth and justice,” said the MIPC, an organization of Mindanao journalists who bonded together to advance press freedom and democracy.

The MIPC urged journalists and media organizations not to forget the still unsolved cases of the Maguindanao Massacre, where 32 journalists and media workers perished.

The group also called on the media to fight fake news.

“In the era of fake news, let us reaffirm our commitment to stay truthful, balanced and fearless. Let not political correctness hamper our commitment to press freedom and democracy,” it said.

The group recently organized the Mindanao Media Safety and Security Summit in Davao City.