NUJP, journalists lament loss of media watchdog as CMFR writes 30

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Media practitioners and journalist groups have conveyed bittersweet messages of sadness and respect as the Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR) writes 30—an industry term that indicates that a story is complete.

The CMFR announced that it would cease operations on September 30, after 37 years of serving an independently funded vanguard of a free Filipino press.

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) said it regretted the pending closure of CMFR.

"Its work has helped the press hold power to account while also reminding journalists that the freedom we exercise carries with it a responsibility to the public," the NUJP wrote.

"The loss of a watchdog that watches over the watchdogs is a profound blow to Philippine journalism, leaving a void in an industry that needs accountability. At a time when the press faces mounting pressures from various interests, the absence of CMFR's independent voice will be deeply felt," the union added.

More journalists have also expressed their sorrow following the CMFR's closure, with many lauding CMFR founder Melinda Quintos de Jesus.

Presidential Task Force on Media Security Executive Director Joe Torres, who formerly served as editor-in-chief of GMA News Online, extended his gratitude to the CMFR.

"Started in journalism in 1989, the year CMFR started. The organization has been a great help in the formation of many journalists of my time. Maraming salamat, CMFR, Ma'am Melinda, at sa lahat na mga kaibigan at nakasama sa Center," Torres said in a comment on the post.

Legacy

Former Business World editor-in-chief and now PLDT communications division chief Roby Alampay also lauded the watchdog.

"Your legacy and the impact of Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility will live on. We are all grateful — and now collectively responsible to ensure that it be so. Maraming salamat sa lahat nang bumuo at bumuhay sa CMFR at kanyang adhikain!” Alampay said.

NUJP Chair Jonathan de Santos, who serves as ABS-CBN deputy editor, also thanked the CMFR in a separate statement.

"My informal journ school whose standards I aspire to and sometimes met. Thank you for your decades of service, guidance, praise and scolding, and hope in journalism in the Philippines," De Santos said.

Sports journalist Rey Joble thanked CMFR for standing with him during a plagiarism issue, wherein portions of his work were copied into another article.

“Your legacy lives on. But allow me to thank you, CMFR, for standing by me at the height of my plagiarism issue 15 years ago. It was a life-changing moment,” Joble said.

TV5 journalist Ed Lingao, meanwhile, put it simply: "CMFR writes -30-."

Standing up for rights

Meanwhile, the In Defense of Human Rights and Dignity Movement (iDefend) group expressed sadness over the CMFR's impending closure.

iDEFEND said that the CMFR was there to stand by the truth during former president Rodrigo Duterte's bloody war on drugs.

"Ang inyong pagtindig sa karapatang pantao at demokrasya ay malaking kontribusyon sa pagpapanagot sa nagdaang administrasyon. Mula sa hanay ng iDefend, pagpupugay at pasasalamat CMFR!" the group said.

(Your stance on human rights and democracy was a big contributor to holding the previous administration accountable. From iDefend, recognition and gratitude.)