PTFoMS urges media to report poll-related threats, attacks

PTFoMS executive director Jose Torres Jr. (File Photo: Philippine Information Agency Northern Mindanao/Facebook)

By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) on Monday expressed “serious concern” over the reported incidents of harassment faced by media workers during the election season.

In a statement, PTFoMS executive director Jose Torres Jr. encouraged media practitioners to report election-related attacks through PTFoMS Incident Report Form (IRF) available online or through the QR code posted on its official Facebook page.

Torres said the PTFoMS IRF would enable members of the media to immediately make a report on incidents that threaten press freedom, as well as their right to life, liberty and security.

“Document everything and report immediately,” he said.

“We do not tolerate attacks on media professionals who are performing their duties as responsible citizens during the elections. We will vigorously pursue cases against those found to be endangering the lives of journalists.”

Torres said attacks on media professionals who are performing their duties during the election period “undermine press freedom and the essential role of the media in a democratic society.”

The PTFoMS stressed that historically, the Philippines has faced numerous media-related challenges during elections, with journalists frequently encountering harassment and threats.

“These issues underscore the critical need for robust protection measures and the urgent implementation of accountability mechanisms to safeguard press freedom,” it said.

Torres said the PTFoMS is currently coordinating with the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) Media Security Vanguards to investigate the recent election-related attacks against media personalities, adding that appropriate action will be undertaken.

Recent incidents include the attack on the vehicle of former Cagayan de Oro Press Club president Manuel Jaudian in Sagay, Camiguin, on May 10.

The PTFoMS also reported that on May 10, a news crew 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 chairperson.

In Quezon City, radio reporter Rambo Labay also faced intimidation from a group of men while covering vote-buying allegations, the PTFoMS added.

“As of Election Day, PTFOMS has recorded three incidents of possible election-related media threats, highlighting the ongoing challenges to journalist safety in the country,” it said. “These incidents have been formally reported to authorities, and the PTFOMS is reviewing them for potential legal action against the perpetrators.”

On April 23, dzRH reporter Romeo Gonzales filed a complaint with the PNP in Baguio City after allegedly receiving threats from La Paz, Abra Mayor Joseph Bernos, a congressional candidate via Facebook Messenger and a video call.

The PTFoMS said it remains dedicated to ensuring a secure environment for media practitioners and upholding democratic values, especially during the election period.