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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Diplomatic community marks Percy Lapid's death anniversary

Diplomatic community marks Percy Lapid's death anniversary

Published Oct 3, 2023 08:21 am

​The diplomatic community in the Philippines has commemorated the first death anniversary of slain journalist Percival "Percy Lapid" Mabasa.

On Tuesday, Oct. 3, the Czech Embassy in Manila led a forum entitled "Keeping the Flame of Freedom Alive: Case Study of Percy Lapid Mabasa," where one of its diplomats paid tribute to Lapid.

Czech ambassador Charge d'Affaires, ad interim, Dalibor Mička said Czech Republic's "commitment to the similar causes that Percy Lapid devoted his life to is deeply rooted in the Czech Republic's own historical experience and unwavering dedication to media freedom."

"Beyond our borders, the Czech Republic actively supports press freedom on the global stage through its diplomatic efforts and participation in international forums," Mička said.

In July 2023, the Czech embassy agreed to fund a P1-million project with the Center for People’s Media (CPM) for a series of forums promoting democracy and press freedom that would culminate with the commemoration of Lapid's first death anniversary.

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Photo courtesy of Czech Embassy in Manila

Lapid was a radio commentator who was shot dead inside his car near his home in Las Piñas City on October 3, 2022.

Meanwhile, UK Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils also joined in the event and said she was "proud to commemorate his life at an event opened by his brother."

"Media freedom is the cornerstone of democracy. Journalists need to be able to do their job free of violence and harassment," Beaufils said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Ahead of Lapid's death anniversary, US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson met with Lapid's brother, Roy, who is also a journalist.

Carlson expressed concern that Lapid's case "remains unresolved" although a year already passed.

During their meeting, the diplomat said they discussed "the importance of media freedom and protection."

"Journalists deserve to do their work free of violence, intimidation, and harassment," Carlson said.

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Czech Republic percy lapid
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