Quezon City, Philippines – In a significant step towards safeguarding press freedom, the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) and the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) formalized a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to enhance the protection and security of journalists and media practitioners nationwide on 28 August 2025. The landmark partnership aims to create a more secure environment for media professionals, allowing them to carry out their vital work without fear of harassment, threats, or violence.
“The work of journalists is vital in illuminating truth, empowering citizens, and strengthening democracy. Yet, too often, this work is met with harassment, threats, and violence,” said Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr., PTFOMS Executive Director, during the signing ceremony. “Today’s agreement is our roadmap for reversing that trend. It establishes concrete actions that will provide real protections, prompt responses, and justice for media workers in distress.”
The MOA outlines a comprehensive framework for collaboration, focusing on several key initiatives:
• Rapid Response Mechanism: Establishment of a dedicated hotline, threat assessment protocols, and temporary protective measures to swiftly address immediate dangers faced by journalists. Contact the PTFOMS Hotline at 09650310377 for immediate assistance.
• Investigation and Accountability: Strengthening collaboration with law enforcement and investigative agencies to ensure impartial and timely investigations into attacks against media workers, holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
• Victim Support: Provision of comprehensive legal and psychosocial assistance to victims of attacks and their families, ensuring they receive the necessary support during difficult times.
• Capacity Building and Prevention: Implementation of gender-sensitive safety training programs for journalists and first responders, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to mitigate risks and respond effectively to threats.
• Data Monitoring: Sharing of databases on threats, attacks, and investigations to identify patterns and inform policy development, enabling a more proactive and targeted approach to media security.
• Legal and Policy Reforms: Advocating for legislative measures and policy changes to expedite investigations, strengthen witness protection programs, and address online harassment targeting journalists.
• Resources and Sustainability: Mobilizing human, technical, and financial resources to ensure the long-term sustainability of protection initiatives.
• Engagement and Awareness: Promoting ongoing dialogue with media organizations, civil society groups, and the public to foster a culture of respect and responsibility towards journalists and their crucial role in society.
The agreement emphasizes the importance of establishing measurable targets, maintaining transparency, and conducting regular reviews to ensure effective implementation and maximize the impact of the partnership.
“Protecting journalists is not just an obligation but a reflection of our commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law,” Torres affirmed.
Usec. Torres can be reached for further inquiries at jatorres-ptfoms@op.gov.ph.
