The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) has placed itself on heightened alert following a surge in threats and violence against journalists ahead of the upcoming midterm elections, officials announced Saturday.
“Ang (The) Presidential Task Force on Media Security ay (is) on alert these weeks, especially ahead of the midterm elections,” said PTFoMS Executive Director Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr. at a weekly news forum in Quezon City.
Among the recent incidents cited was the reported threat against dzRH reporter Romeo Beñas. Beñas was allegedly threatened by La Paz, Abra Mayor Joseph Bernos — who is also running for Congress — through Facebook Messenger and a video call on April 21.
Torres said the task force, in coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), is closely investigating the matter.
“We have a colleague in the media in Northern Luzon who received a threat from a candidate because of his reporting. We are looking into that,” Torres stated.
He added that the PNP is verifying the allegations and assessing security concerns related to Beñas.
In a separate incident, the home of former Negros Press Club president and radio blocktimer Reynaldo Siason in Talisay City, Negros Occidental was strafed by unidentified gunmen on April 20. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the PTFoMS is treating the attack as a serious threat to press freedom.
Torres urged election candidates to respect the role of the media, emphasizing that journalists must be allowed to perform their duties without fear of intimidation or violence.
“We call on all candidates to uphold press freedom and ensure the safety of the media during this crucial period,” he said.
The PTFoMS, created to safeguard media workers, said it would remain vigilant and ready to act on any threats or acts of violence reported throughout the election season.