DILG PRESS RELEASE
April 8, 2025
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) expressed its support to the government’s efforts to ensure the safety and security of the members of the media, especially with the upcoming midterm elections.
“As vital players in shaping the nation’s future, they [media] help the public make informed decisions by fact-checking, influencing public opinion, and holding politicians and candidates accountable. However, this critical role also exposes them to significant risks that could endanger their lives,” said DILG Undersecretary Rolando Puno.
Puno represented Secretary Jonvic Remulla during the launching and reactivation of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Media Security Vanguards in Quezon City on Tuesday which was led by Presidential Communications Office Secretary Jay Ruiz and Presidential Task Force on Media Security Executive Director, Usec. Jose Torres.
According to Puno, the government must continue to raise awareness on media security and safety protocols, while strengthening collaboration between the media and law enforcement to ensure swift responses to threats against journalists. “Through the Media Security Vanguards, we aim to empower journalists to do their work without fear of censorship, intimidation, or compromising their safety and integrity,” he said.
With the launching of the Media Security Vanguard, the PNP-Public Information Office shall deploy police personnel tasked to coordinate with PTFoMS Special Agents to expedite investigations and resolve incidents of threats or violence against media professionals.
“We trust that the PNP Media Vanguards will continue their vital role as frontline defenders of journalists, strengthening efforts to ensure their safety and prevent impunity by implementing proactive security measures,” Puno said.
He urged the media to keep reporting the truth and report any threats or security concerns to the Vanguards.
