By Christopher Lloyd T. Caliwan
MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday vowed to further strengthen measures to ensure accountability for offenses targeting members of the press.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the PNP remains committed to pursuing offenders who threaten, harass, or attack journalists, ensuring that criminal cases are properly prepared for prosecution.
Nartatez made the statement as the Philippines joined the global observance of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, which highlights the need to protect media workers and hold perpetrators accountable for attacks against them.
He underscored the role of journalists in keeping the public informed and said efforts to protect them are also efforts to safeguard access to credible information.
“The PNP recognizes the vital role of the press to the security of freedom, the strength of accountability and in keeping the public informed in a democratic society,” Nartatez said in a statement.
“As our valuable partner in promoting awareness and public safety, it has always been our responsibility to ensure that they are safe and protected in the performance of their duty to the Filipino people,” he added.
The Presidential Task Force on Media Security earlier called for sustained efforts to resolve cases involving attacks on journalists and stressed that arrests alone are not enough to end impunity against members of the press.
The task force emphasized the importance of bringing cases through the justice process and securing accountability for those responsible.
Nartatez said the PNP will continue to work closely with concerned agencies and field units to ensure prompt action on reports involving threats or violence against media workers.
He also urged journalists to immediately report incidents of harassment, intimidation, threats, or attacks related to their work so authorities can act swiftly and build stronger cases against offenders. (PNA)
