MANILA – The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) on Sunday reaffirmed its commitment to protect journalists and pursue full accountability for the perpetrators of the 2009 Maguindanao massacre, as the country marks the 16th anniversary of the worst election-related violence and deadliest attack on media workers in Philippine history.
In its statement, PTFOMS expressed solidarity with the victims’ families and the media community, stressing that the tragedy remains a stark reminder of the dangers journalists face.
“We remember and honor the 58 lives lost, including 32 journalists and media workers who were doing their job – seeking truth and reporting it to the nation,” the task force said.
“Their sacrifice reminds us of the dangers faced by media professionals in the pursuit of press freedom,” it added.
The 2009 massacre, orchestrated by members of the Ampatuan political clan and their private armed groups, is considered the world’s single deadliest attack on journalists worldwide.
Despite a landmark 2019 ruling that convicted several principal suspects, many cases remain under appeal, and several accused individuals are still facing trial or at large.
PTFOMS said the call for justice persists more than a decade later.
“We recognize the ongoing demand for justice across our nation, especially from the families who have suffered for years. This is not just a plea for retribution; it is a strong demand for accountability, for an end to impunity, and for assurance that such an act never happens again,” it said.
The task force noted that while the 2019 conviction was “a significant step toward justice,” the process is far from over.
“However, appeals are ongoing, and we understand the journey toward complete justice continues,” PTFOMS said.
PTFOMS also vowed to work closely with government agencies, the justice sector, and media groups to ensure that the remaining legal processes are completed and that the protection of journalists is strengthened nationwide.
“We pledge to continue working with all stakeholders to ensure legal processes are followed and to pursue full accountability for those responsible,” it said.
The Palace media task force urged the media community and the public to remember the courage and dedication of the victims and to continue pushing for a safer environment for journalists.
“Let the memory of our fallen colleagues – their courage and dedication – strengthen our collective resolve. We reaffirm our commitment to creating a safe environment for all media practitioners, upholding the rule of law, and defending the right to a free press,” it said.
“May their souls rest in peace, and may justice ultimately prevail,” PTFOMS added.
PNP renews vow to uphold press freedom
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) underscored the vital role of the members of the media in informing the public about peace and order issues, criminal investigations and police accomplishments.
PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. issued the statement as he reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to uphold press freedom as the country commemorates the 2009 massacre.
“The Philippine National Police fully respects the freedom of the press and acknowledges the important role of journalists in keeping the people informed, in the search for truth and accountability, and in constantly checking that the fundamentals of good governance and democracy are in place,” Nartatez said.
He added that this stance follows the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the guidance of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to strengthen trust among democratic institutions.
Nartatez noted the media’s critical role in the ongoing flood control controversy, saying journalists help deliver verified information as the investigation unfolds.
He added that the PNP also continues to coordinate with PTFoMS to ensure a safer environment for journalists. (With a report from Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)
