IFJ Joins National Mourning for Journalists in the Philippines

 

 

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) today pledges its solidarity to the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP), an IFJ affiliate, and all journalists in the Philippines as they mark a National Day of Mourning for Media in recognition of fallen colleagues.

 

Alongside the Freedom Fund for Filipino Journalists and Radio Mindanao Network and other media organisations, NUJP representatives wore black in a nationally coordinated action across the country.

 

Short ceremonies paying tribute to killed journalists were held in metropolitan Manila as well as Baguio, Olongapo, Pampanga, Sorsogon, Iloilo, Capiz, Zamboanga, Davao, Quezon, Bukidnon, Kidapawan, Ozamiz, General Santos and Jolo.

 

The murders of two Radio Mindanao Network (RMN) journalists earlier this month contributed to a newly sombre outlook for the safety and protection of the media in the Philippines, following a period of optimism when violence against the media appeared to decrease and the Philippines courts began to take action to investigate the killings of journalists.

 

Five journalists in the Philippines have lost their lives in the course of their work since the beginning of 2008.

 

“Journalists and journalists’ leaders in the Philippines have shown great courage and determination in fighting for press freedom despite the danger and hostility they confront in the course of doing their jobs,” IFJ Asia-Pacific said.

 

“The IFJ stands with our colleagues in the Philippines in sending a message to all perpetrators of violence against Filipino media workers that we will maintain our commitment as guardians of the public interest and the independent voice of the people.”

 

In mourning all journalists killed while conducting their work, the IFJ is also saddened to learn of the shooting death of Ronaldo Julia, a former journalist for DZGE radio and the Weekly Informer, in Camarines Sur province on August 16, whose murder is reportedly unrelated to his media work.

 

The IFJ extends its deep sympathy to the family, friends and colleagues of all journalists killed in the Philippines.

 

For further information contact IFJ Asia-Pacific on +612 9333 0919

 

The IFJ represents over 600,000 in 122 countries worldwide