The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has recognized the urgency of providing a more intensified security for media practitioners in the country.
DILG Undersecretary Rolando Puno made this assertion as he also called for the strengthening collaboration between the media and law enforcement to ensure swift responses to threats against journalists.
During the recent launching and reactivation of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Media Security Vanguards on Tuesday, April 8, Puno reiterated the DILG’s full support to the government's efforts to ensure the safety and security of the members of the media, especially with the upcoming midterm elections.
“As vital players in shaping the nation's future, they ([media) help the public make informed decisions by fact-checking, influencing public opinion, and holding politicians and candidates accountable. However, this critical role also exposes them to significant risks that could endanger their lives,” Puno said.
Aside from Puno, Presidential Communications Office Secretary Jay Ruiz and Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) Executive Director Undersecretary Jose Torres were present in the event.
With the launching of the Media Security Vanguard, the PNP-Public Information Office shall deploy police personnel tasked to coordinate with PTFoMS Special Agents to expedite investigations and resolve incidents of threats or violence against media professionals.
“We trust that the PNP Media Vanguards will continue their vital role as frontline defenders of journalists, strengthening efforts to ensure their safety and prevent impunity by implementing proactive security measures,” Puno noted.
Puno also called on the media to keep reporting the truth and report any threats or security concerns to the Vanguards.