The Commission raises concern once more on the growing trend of tagging vocal groups or individuals as “leftist” or “communist” with the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines as the latest organization to be labeled as such. This fresh attack on media imperils the state of press freedom and leads to the weakening of democracy. It sends a chilling message that serves to silence the press considering the previous threats to news outlets and killings of media practitioners. Media plays a vital role in heightening public discourse, ensuring accountability and transparency, and upholding the truth towards social good and for the interest of the people. Any assault to media is contrary to the betterment of society and the people’s interest.

We urge again the State to implement safety mechanisms and other measures for the defense and protection of press freedom.