The Commission on Human Rights (Commission), in the exercise of its constitutional mandate to recommend to Congress effective measures to promote human rights,¹ submits its position paper on SENATE BILL NO. 2427 “AN ACT PROVIDING ENHANCED PROTECTION, SECURITY AND BENEFITS FOR MEDIA AND ENTERTAINMENT WORKERS, also known as The Media and Entertainment Workers’ Welfare Act pending before the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment and Human Resources Development.

The media faces rising violence fostered by a culture of impunity that has spread across sectors and throughout the nation for decades. Since 1986, the Philippines has been one of the most dangerous countries in the world for journalists. The violence against journalists is not unique to the Philippines. Since 2000, 1028 journalists have been killed in the line of duty from the Americas to Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Europe. In nine of 10 cases, nobody has been brought to justice.²

In sum, the Commission reiterates its support for the passage of the proposed bill that aims to safeguard the rights and well-being of media and entertainment workers in the Philippines. The Act creates a more just and supportive environment for media and entertainment professionals in the country. Its implementation has the potential to improve working conditions, foster a culture of respect for worker rights, and contribute to the overall development and sustainability of the industry.