NAME: Ricca Joyce G Pran

STRAND & SECTION: 12 - MAGALANG

OUTPUT TITLE: Writing A Report

UNVEILING THE ASSAULT ON JOURNALISTIC INTEGRITY

IN THE PHILIPPINES – A FIELD REPORT

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This article examines the alarming pattern of attacks on journalists in the

Philippines. It gives light on the many forms of violence and intimidation that media
personnel encounter around the country by examining news pieces and current
studies. The report emphasizes the negative effects of these attacks on democracy
and press freedom, and it advocates for immediate action to protect journalists’
safety and defend free speech ideals.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Telephone Nos.: (049)548-0114/(049)501-9535
Email Address: 301230@deped.gov.ph
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 1. Introduction

2. Body

- Overview of Attacks Against Journalists

- Analysis of Recent Incidents

- Impact on Press Freedom and Democracy

3. Conclusion

4. References

5. Recommendations

INTRODUCTION

In the Philippines, attacks on journalists have grown to be a concerning

trend that threatens press freedom and democracy. This study intends to
investigate the severity of the crisis by looking at current instances and their
ramifications for the country’s media professionals.

BODY

Overview of Attacks Against Journalists

According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, the Philippines is one of

the countries where journalists face the most danger. Journalists confront a variety
of threats, including physical attacks, harassment, and even targeted killings. Since
the country’s return to democracy in 1986, over 40 journalists have been
assassinated, and many more have endured threats and violence. These attacks are
typically carried out by powerful individuals or organizations in an attempt to
silence dissent and prevent critical reporting.

Address : Sto. Domingo, City of Biñan, Laguna

Telephone Nos.: (049)548-0114/(049)501-9535
Email Address: 301230@deped.gov.ph
Website: Binhs301230.com
Analysis of Recent Incidents

Recent occurrences have highlighted the urgency of the situation. In

November 2023, Mark Ventura, a journalist documenting a local event in Palawan,
was murdered. The fact that his death is still unsolved serves as a striking
reminder of the widespread impunity that surrounds attacks on journalists in the
Philippines.

Recent occurrences have highlighted the urgency of the situation. Apart from
the tragic death of reporter Mark Ventura in November 2023, there have been a
number of other disturbing attacks on journalists in the Philippines.

Reynaldo Domingo, a radio broadcaster, was shot and killed in Dumaguete

City, Negros Oriental, in September 2023. Domingo’s assassination aroused
concerns about the safety of journalists in the area, given his reputation for candid
criticism of regional issues (GMA News, 2023).

Similarly, in July 2023, journalist Carmelo Palacios was severely injured

after being savagely attacked by unknown criminals in General Santos City.
Palacios became the victim of intimidation and abuse after reporting on difficult
issues such as illicit logging and environmental deterioration (Inquirer.net, 2023).

Media professionals around the country are facing new hurdles as a result of
an increase in legal and digital abuse. Threats and intimidation against journalists
covering sensitive topics such as human rights violations and political corruption
have increased on social media platforms. These tragedies demonstrate how
urgently stronger accountability frameworks and protection mechanisms are
required to protect the lives and rights of Filipino reporters.

Address : Sto. Domingo, City of Biñan, Laguna

Telephone Nos.: (049)548-0114/(049)501-9535
Email Address: 301230@deped.gov.ph
Website: Binhs301230.com
Impact on Press Freedom and Democracy

The continuing attacks on journalists have damaged Philippine press

freedom and democracy. Fear of the consequences stifles investigative reporting
and undermines the public’s right to know. Maintaining public discourse and
holding people in positions of power accountable is dependent on an independent
and free media. However, the atmosphere of dread and persecution undermines
democratic values and stifles journalistic integrity. Furthermore, there are
significant threats to democratic governance because a lack of press freedom
encourages corruption and abuse of authority.

CONCLUSION

The growing incidence of attacks against journalists in the Philippines poses

a major threat to press freedom and democracy. To protect media professionals,
uphold the ideals of free expression, and avoid impunity for crimes against
journalists, prompt action is required.

REFERENCES

Committee to Protect Journalists. (n.d.). Philippines. Retrieved

from https://cpj.org/data/killed/?status=Killed&motiveConfirmed%5B
%5D=Confirmed
&type%5B%5D=Journalist&startDate=01%2F01%2F1992&endDate=12%2F31%2F
2024&group_by=year

GMA News. (2023, September 19). Radio broadcaster shot dead in Dumaguete City.
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/806042/
radiobroadcaster-shot-dead-in-dumaguete-city/story/.

Human Rights Watch. (2023, December 06). Philippines: Journalists Under Threat.
https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/12/06/philippines-journalists-under-threat

Address : Sto. Domingo, City of Biñan, Laguna

Telephone Nos.: (049)548-0114/(049)501-9535
Email Address: 301230@deped.gov.ph
Website: Binhs301230.com
Inquirer.net. (2023, July 10). Journalist attacked in GenSan.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1570215/journalist-attacked-in-gensan

Rappler. (n.d.). Philippines ranks 5 th deadliest country for journalists – report.

Retrieved from https://www.rappler.com/nation/philippines-ranks-5th-
deadliestcountry-journalists-report

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Law enforcement and judicial processes should be enhanced to ensure that

attacks on journalists are investigated and prosecuted as soon as possible
and impartially.
2. Provide journalists with comprehensive training and assistance to improve
their security and safety while performing their duties.
3. Create a culture of gratitude for the freedom of the press and expression
through public education and awareness initiatives.
4. Collaborate with global institutions and civil society organizations to improve
human rights and press freedom in the Philippines.
5. To address the root causes of journalist attacks, government authorities,
media outlets, and civil society groups should be encouraged to cooperate
and collaborate.

Address : Sto. Domingo, City of Biñan, Laguna

Telephone Nos.: (049)548-0114/(049)501-9535
Email Address: 301230@deped.gov.ph
Website: Binhs301230.com