CHR: Press freedom remains under threat

As the Philippines marked National Press Freedom Day on Sunday, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) called for stronger safeguards for journalists, citing the country’s 114th ranking in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index of Reporters Without Borders.

In a statement, the CHR warned that press freedom in the Philippines continues to “face serious challenges.”

“The lack of accountability for crimes against media workers perpetuates a dangerous cycle of impunity,” it said as it urged the government to ensure swift justice for victims and their families.

The CHR added that Red-tagging, vilification and other forms of intimidation likewise pose threats to journalists and the public’s right to information.

It cited its National Inquiry on Red-tagging, which found that journalists are frequently targeted for critical reporting on government policies and programs.

The CHR also reiterated its recommendation for legislation that would specifically penalize Red-tagging, saying that it continues to strengthen mechanisms aimed at protecting media workers.

In April, Reporters Without Borders (RSF), an international nongovernment organization that advocates for press freedom, said the Philippines improved from 116th place in 2025 to 114th place this year, although it remains in the lower half of the press freedom index.

The index measures the degree of freedom enjoyed by journalists, news organizations and netizens in 180 countries and the efforts made by authorities to respect this freedom.

The RSF, however, noted that despite its extremely dynamic media landscape, the Philippines remains one of the most dangerous countries in the world for journalists. It cited the Maguindanao massacre in 2009, which left 32 journalists and media workers dead.

The PTFoMS, on the other hand, said that “continuous vigilance and action” is needed in defending press freedom amid threats.

While noting that its efforts have contributed to improved international press freedom rankings and stronger mechanisms for responding to threats against media, it also acknowledged that journalists continue to face challenges, including violence.

The task force called on the public to recognize the vital role of journalists in democracy.

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“Let us recommit to fostering an environment where truth prevails over disinformation and where laws protect rather than restrict press freedom,” the PTFoMS said.

Decriminalizing libel

The CHR, meanwhile, reiterated its call to decriminalize libel and cyberlibel, saying journalists should work free from criminal prosecution and undue restrictions.

“Beyond protection mechanisms, laws and policies must foster an environment where journalism can flourish without fear of criminalization or undue restriction,” it said.

The CHR also warned of artificial intelligence and digital technologies being used to surveil journalists, expose sources, suppress dissent and spread disinformation.

At the same time, it urged the government to address impunity and create a safe civic environment free from censorship, intimidation and other threats.

“When journalists are silenced, people lose information necessary to make informed decisions, participate meaningfully in public life and hold institutions accountable,” the CHR said.