Photojournalist dies during Traslacion 2026 coverage; PTFoMS extends sympathies

Philippine Canadian Inquirer
January 9, 2026

(Photo courtesy: Presidential Task Force on Media Security/Facebook)

MANILA, Philippines — The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) extended its condolences to the bereaved family of Saksi photojournalist Itoh Son, who died on Friday morning during his coverage of this year’s Traslacion.

According to his loved ones, Son, 55, suffered a heart attack during his work, and despite having the flu for the past few days, he remained firm in fulfilling his role as a photojournalist, covering the pre-Traslacion activities, including the “Pahalik.”

The Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) said Son was found unresponsive at around 3 a.m. near the Manila Police District (MPD) Station 5. He was then reportedly rushed to Gat Andres Bonifacio Medical Center; however, he was later declared dead on arrival.

“Ang kanyang dedikasyon sa kanyang propesyon sa kabila ng kanyang karamdaman ay patunay ng kanyang pagmamahal sa kanyang trabaho at sa paghahatid ng mga mahalagang kaganapan sa publiko. Ang kanyang hindi matatawarang serbisyo sa larangan ng photojournalism ay magsisilbing inspirasyon sa iba,” the PTFoMS wrote in a statement.

(His dedication to his profession despite his health condition is a testament to his love for his work and delivering relevant events to the public. His invaluable service in the field of photojournalism shall serve as an inspiration to others.)

“Nawa’y magsilbi rin itong paalala sa lahat ng media workers na maging mapagmatyag sa kanilang kalusugan at kaligtasan habang ginagampanan ang kanilang mga tungkulin. Sa gitna ng matinding dedikasyon, huwag kalimutan ang kahalagahan ng pag-aalaga sa sarili upang ipagpatuloy ang paglilingkod ng may pag-iingat at malasakit para sa kapwa,” it added.

(May what happened also serve as a reminder to all the media workers to be conscious of their health and safety while they are fulfilling their duties. In the midst of fervent dedication, may they never forget the importance of taking care of themselves to continue their service with security and care for others.)