NUJP challenges election winners to decisively address media killings

THE NATIONAL Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) is saddened, but not at all surprised, by the country’s low ranking in the latest World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The RSF correctly pointed out that “media killings in the Philippines usually go unpunished” and that, in such a climate of fear, “journalists succumb to self-censorship.” In the World Press Freedom Index, the Philippines ranked 138th out of 180 countries, with a score of 44.6 points. This is categorized in the Press Freedom map as “bad.”

Like other administrations before it, President Aquino’s has not taken any steps to end the killing of journalists. Under his watch, 31 colleagues have been murdered, bringing the total since 1986 to 171. Nine others have survived attempts on their lives and 37 more received death threats.

But thus far, only a handful of gunmen have been convicted and not one mastermind. Recommendations put forward by the NUJP and other media watchdogs such as the formation of quick reaction teams and the strengthening of the Witness Protection Program, among other measures, have been largely ignored. In fact, Mr. Aquino has personally displayed apathy toward attacks and threats against journalists while continually showing outright hostility toward a critical press.

The slow-paced Ampatuan trial offers no solace. After more than six years, more than 70 suspects remain at large. One of the primary suspects, Sajid Islam Ampatuan, was ordered released last March 9 after posting a P11.6-milllion bail bond. Sixteen other accused police officers were also granted bail.

While there has been some progress in the case of murdered Palawan broadcaster Gerry Ortega, with the alleged masterminds facing trial and, hopefully, conviction, this is mostly thanks to the efforts of the courageous Ortega family, supportive media organizations and friends.

Even the so-called superbody, composed of several government agencies, has failed to solve media killings.

In light of the country’s continuing dismal showing in the World Press Freedom Index, we challenge whoever wins the May 9 elections to decisively address impunity, particularly by undertaking meaningful reforms that would pave the way for the resolution of media killings and an end to the bloodshed, and that would push for legislation that would guarantee freedom of information and the freedom of the press, in general.

—RYAN D. ROSAURO, chair,
National Union of Journalists of the Philippines