CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNews / 20 August 2026) — With less than a month before the first Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections, the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) announced it will establish media monitoring centers in Cotabato and Marawi. Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr., PTFOMS executive director, stated during a three-day media safety training organized by the Cagayan de Oro Press Club Journalism Institute at Camp Evangelista that these centers aim to “ensure the safety and welfare of journalists” covering the BARMM polls on September 14. Torres emphasized the need for collaboration, clear communication, and a shared commitment to protect journalists, citing Executive Secretary Ralph Recto’s message to the 30 training participants. Coordination with the Armed Forces, including the Marawi-based 103rd Infantry “Haribon” Brigade, has already begun. Maj. Candidato Paduman of the 103IB confirmed they await directives on the center’s location in Marawi. BARMM spokesperson Mohd Asnin Pendatun encouraged eligible citizens to vote on September 14. The training, held at the 4th Infantry Division’s headquarters from Wednesday to Friday, was organized in partnership with PTFOMS, OPAPRU, the Army’s 4ID, and Smart Communications. (Richel V. Umel / MindaNews)
