Fight of Many, for All
Written by: Bey and Jepsy
As stated in the 1987 Constitution, Article 3 Section 4 states that no law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances. The citizens are entitled to freedom of speech, where one can express their feelings and thoughts through various means such as media platforms; one of the most important mediums through which the citizens of the country will be aware of all the activities going around and in the country and world. Freedom of Press or Freedom of Media is the right that is exercised freely where the speech is expressed through electronic media or through the publishing of the content through newspapers, articles and magazines, etc. The Philippines is a democratic country which gives attention and emphasis to the well-being and human rights of its citizens. However, there are many instances where the reporters and journalists are threatened and assaulted at times for numerous exposés. The journalists are silenced and imprisoned for voicing out such scandals. The need to defend Press Freedom is crucial especially during this time wherein most of the people are more focused on their personal social media accounts rather than what’s happening in society.
In Asia, the media of the Philippines are often remarked upon as being the “freest”, yet one of the most rampant and problematic issues in the country since 1986 is the assassination of journalists. What’s ironic is that the killing of journos only emerged when the Marcos dictatorship was overthrown by the first “People Power” Revolution, yet due to persisting forces pushing the limits of freedom beyond the law, the uprising also did its part. Backlash against the Anti-terrorism Law has also drawn spotlight for Press Freedom issue against the said regulation. However, as we come to think of it, both the national government and the media companies have their say and responsibility on the issue. It is not something to be taken lightly, as everyone involved in the situation has their own share of things to do to lighten the load of the concern.
Now what should the national government and the media companies do to meet halfway? The government should take all necessary measures to tackle the culture of impunity and bring the perpetrators of violence against journalists and activists to justice. They should also ensure that all measures to combat terrorism, including the new legislation, are fully compatible with international human rights standard. Lastly, they should protect and guarantee not only the media companies but the entire community that there is a freedom of assembly given to them. Meanwhile for the media companies, through media literacy campaigns, they should encourage and raise public awareness of and involvement in improving the professional and ethical standards of the mass media. Bring media advocacy and support organizations together to campaign for the prosecution of all those responsible for the murder of journalists. Enhance public and media awareness of the human rights implications of the anti-terrorism bill, and campaign for amendments to the bill that will genuinely address the terrorism problem without compromising civil liberties and free expression. Lastly, improve and increase coverage on areas outside the capital, and on marginalized people and areas. This isn’t just a fight of one, for it is indeed a fight of many, for all.
SOURCES:
https://www.article19.org/data/files/pdfs/publications/philippines-baseline-study.pdf
