The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) underscores the vital role of the media as the Fourth Estate in safeguarding every Filipino’s access to information and freedom of expression. As such, we extend our solidarity and acknowledge the challenges faced by media workers affected by layoffs across various media outlets.

This statement comes in light of reports that approximately 100 media workers have been impacted by layoffs recently announced by ABS-CBN Corp. These layoffs represent a portion of the job cuts forced upon the media giant due to the House of Representatives’ 2020 decision to deny ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal.

Adding to this setback in the media industry is CNN Philippines’ announcement of its shutdown due to financial losses, resulting in the displacement of approximately 300 employees earlier this year.

It is evident that the severe challenges faced by media outlets have not only weakened the foundations of our democracy—a system reliant on free and truthful reporting—but have also been detrimental to the journalists dedicated to upholding these principles. Now more than ever, we must balance the recognition that journalism is a vital public service with the understanding that media outlets also operate as businesses.

The CHR is deeply concerned that in the current climate, media workers are being forced to accept abrupt job losses as inevitable, one that jeopardizes their livelihoods during a time of high prices for essential goods.

While we acknowledge that traditional media outlets face revenue declines due to shifting audiences and the growth of new media, the Commission emphasizes the employees’ right to transparency from their companies’ management. We also urge that the laid-off media workers be provided ample assistance and benefits in this difficult period.

We cannot ignore the fact that the denial of ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal continues to affect workers who have been left uncertain about their ability to support themselves and their families. The CHR has previously stressed that this decision—lacking fairness and justice—has inevitably cast a chilling effect on press freedom.

In a time rampant with misinformation and disinformation, the CHR believes that the role of the media remains crucial in disseminating authentic news and covering the real events in the country. With the 2025 local and national elections approaching, timely and credible information is even more crucial in empowering Filipinos to choose competent public servants. We cannot uphold a firm standard of truth in the country if journalists are unable to carry out their duties.

Just as the media has consistently played its valuable role in shaping communities and societies, it is now imperative that we equally ensure the protection of their rights as workers and as bastions of truth. ###