By Liza Agoot
BAGUIO CITY – The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) has again urged journalists to uphold ethical standards in their work, stressing that no news story is worth risking one’s life.
“We advise journalists to practice ethical journalism, balanced and fair reporting, which serves as the first line of defense against threats and possible legal cases,” Undersecretary Jose Torres said in an interview on the sidelines of the Cybersecurity and Media Literacy Forum held here on Friday.
Torres emphasized that journalists should prioritize their safety at all times. “If you believe a story could put you in danger, it may be better to step back from it for now,” he said and cautioned reporters against the so-called scoop mentality, particularly in covering high-risk or sensitive issues. He instead encouraged collaborative reporting to reduce risks.
“Let us work together as a media community in exposing corruption. When stories are covered collectively and with the participation of the wider community, journalists are better protected. There is safety in numbers,” he urged.
Torres noted that with the growing number of individuals claiming to be part of the media, PTFOMS has clarified the distinction between “media practitioners” and “journalists” in line with PTFOMS’ mandate.
“The mandate of PTFOMS is to assess and assist in cases involving the killing of journalists, as well as to evaluate threats against journalists, help in the filing of cases, and provide security to those facing threats,” he said. In assessing cases, he said, PTFOMS also looks into security assistance for journalists and their families, working in partnership with the Public Attorney’s Office and the Commission on Human Rights.
Torres further explained that journalists are distinguished by their role in gathering and releasing information, subject to editorial vetting and accountability. “Bloggers and vloggers cannot be considered journalists,” he stressed.
He said PTFOMS continues to work with media organizations and civil society groups in conducting training workshops to enhance journalists’ skills and understanding of current issues.
“In recent months, we focused on the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in preparation for the upcoming elections. We also conducted safety and security training in disaster-prone and conflict-affected areas,” Torres shared.
He informed reporters that the proposed Magna Carta for Journalists, particularly provisions on the economic rights of media workers, has been refiled in Congress. The measure seeks to address issues, such as minimum wage, compensation for stringers, and fair salaries for journalists. (PNA)