PTFoMS remembers Maguindanao massacre, vows media protection

By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos, Philippine News Agency

In a statement, PTFoMS executive director Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr. said the Marcos administration remains committed to providing a safe environment to media workers. (PNA file photo)

MANILA – The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) on Saturday commemorated the 15th anniversary of the Maguindanao Massacre, pledging to continue protecting the life and rights of journalists in the country.

In a statement, PTFoMS executive director Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr. said the Marcos administration remains committed to providing a safe environment to media workers.

“This dark day in Philippine history saw the brutal killing of 58 people, including 32 media workers. We remember the victims, honor their memory, and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and freedoms of journalists in the Philippines,” Torres said.

“The massacre, one of the single deadliest attacks on journalists worldwide, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers media workers face in pursuit of truth and accountability. It underscores the urgent need for continued vigilance and action to ensure such a tragedy never happens again.”

On Nov. 23, 2009, about 58 people, including 32 journalists and media workers, were supposed to witness the filing of the certificate of candidacy of then Buluan Vice Mayor Esmael Mangudadatu for the 2010 gubernatorial elections but they were flagged down and killed by gunmen in Ampatuan, Maguindanao.

Torres said the sacrifice of the victims of the Maguindanao Massacre would not be forgotten, stressing that the government would continue to work tirelessly to ensure that justice prevails.

Under the watch of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Philippines will remain a “safe place for journalists to work,” he said.

“A free press is essential to a functioning democracy, and we must all contribute to ensuring that journalists can do their jobs without fear of reprisal.”

Torres said the PTFoMS would strengthen its efforts to prevent and address media killings and violence.

He also promised to enhance the PTFoMS’ coordination among government agencies and media organizations, especially at the local level.

He said the PTFoMS is also focused on promoting “a culture of safety and respect for press freedom.”

“The PTFoMS vows to ensure that justice is served for all victims of attacks against media workers. We call on all sectors of society to join us in upholding press freedom and protecting the rights of journalists,” Torres said.