By Darryl John Esguerra | Philippine News Agency
The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) on Sunday denounced the violence that broke out during anti-corruption demonstrations in Manila, which left several individuals injured, including a broadcast journalist who was struck by a projectile while reporting live.
“This incident highlights the urgent need to protect journalists, whose work is essential in ensuring the public’s right to accurate and timely information,” PTFoMS Executive Director Jose Torres Jr. said in a statement.
The incident occurred as protesters clashed with police on Ayala Bridge in an attempt to get near Malacañan Palace.
The rallyists, wearing ski masks and balaclavas, hurled rocks and bottles, burned tires and a police motorcycle, and triggered a dispersal operation.
Torres said the task force stands with the National Press Club of the Philippines, which earlier warned that any attack on members of the media, whether intentional or accidental, undermines press freedom and jeopardizes the public’s right to know.
“PTFOMS emphasizes the importance of strengthening safety protocols to better protect journalists. Their safety is non-negotiable and critical for ensuring a free, fair and transparent flow of information,” he said.
“We will continue to push for stronger safety protocols and measures to safeguard members of the press, who risk their lives daily to keep the nation informed.”
Created in 2016, PTFoMS is mandated to ensure the protection of media workers and address threats and violence against journalists. (PNA)
