The unabated killing of Filipino journalists, and the impunity by which it has been done under President Benigno Aquino III’s administration should now alarm Malacañang, Senator JV Ejercito said.
The minority senator condemned the gunning down of radio broadcaster Michael Milo in Surigao del Sur last Friday, which happened five days before the worldwide celebration today of Human Rights Day.
“The death of broadcaster Michael Milo, who is the 24th media man killed under the present administration, should seriously stir up Malacañang officials to take concrete steps to end the impunity and ensure the safety of Filipino journalists,” the senator said.
Senator Ejercito emphasized the urgency to act against media killings “because justice delayed boosts the confidence of hired gunmen to execute a crime.”
He also called for swift justice for the thirty-four journalists slain during the Maguindanao massacre in November 2009. “Four years have passed and yet, no justice has been served. I call on the government to resolve this case before President Aquino’s term ends.”
Senator Ejercito previously sought to protect Filipino journalists through a measure he filed when he was congressman.
“As guardian of public interest, Filipino journalists should be accorded greater security to motivate and encourage them to perform their duties and responsibilities as informers of the people,” the senator said.
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Press Release
Reference: Rikki Mathay
