Photo courtesy of Marchel Espina/Facebook
The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) expressed concern over the filing of criminal charges against journalist Marchel Espina, saying legal action should not be used to undermine press freedom.
Espina, former editor in chief of SunStar Cebu, voluntarily surrendered to authorities on Friday after a local religious leader filed an unjust vexation complaint against her and four others over an opinion article published in December 2024.
She later posted bail and said she would address the allegations through the proper legal process.
PTFOMS also extended its support to the four other respondents, as well as media organizations, press groups and journalists who raised concerns over the case.
The task force said while individuals have the right to seek legal remedies, such actions should not be used to intimidate journalists or discourage them from reporting on issues of public interest.
It stressed that the exercise of legal rights must be balanced with constitutional protections guaranteeing freedom of expression and freedom of the press.
PTFOMS said it would closely monitor the case and ensure that any action affecting members of the media respected both the rule of law and press freedom.
The agency also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting journalists from intimidation and legal harassment, saying stronger safeguards remained essential in a democratic society.
