PTFOMS: Arrests alone not enough to end impunity in media attacks

MANILA, Philippines — The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) has called for sustained efforts to resolve attacks on journalists and hold perpetrators accountable, as the Philippines joined other nations in observing the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists on Monday, Nov. 2.

In a statement on Monday, the PTFOMS stressed that arrests alone are not enough to end impunity for crimes against media workers.

“Ending impunity means ensuring that attacks against journalists are not ignored, that cases are not forgotten, and that victims and their families can have confidence that justice remains within reach,” said Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr., executive director of PTFOMS, as quoted in a press release.

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“An arrest is an important step, but our collective responsibility does not end there. Cases must be diligently pursued, with full respect for due process and the independence of the courts,” he said.

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The PTFOMS commended the Philippine National Police (PNP) for the arrest of a suspect in the ambush of radio broadcaster and station manager Jay Lavapiez.

The suspect, known by the alias “Doming,” was arrested on Oct. 30 in Barangay Poblacion, Tapaz, Capiz.

He was allegedly involved in the ambush of Lavapiez last June 22. At around 5:40 a.m. of that day, Lavapiez was driving along the national highway in Barangay Cagay, Roxas City, on his way to host his program at Baskog Radyo when two men on a motorcycle blocked his path and fired four shots from a 9mm pistol at the driver’s side.

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Lavapiez managed to evade the attack by maneuvering his vehicle into a roadside gutter and escaped unharmed.

“We thank the PNP, particularly PRO6 under PBGen Tuaño and the operating units, for their persistence and coordinated work in bringing the suspect before the courts,” Torres said.

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“No single institution can end impunity on its own. We need sustained cooperation among law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, the judiciary, media organizations, civil society, and the public,” he added.

Torres also appealed to those with credible information to come forward through the proper authorities and help secure justice for slain media practitioners and those who have survived attacks.

“When journalists are safe, societies are better informed. When crimes against them are properly investigated, and those responsible are held accountable, the rule of law is strengthened,” Torres said.

“We owe victims and their families sustained action—not only on this day of remembrance and solidarity, but for as long as the pursuit of justice requires,” he added.

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed Nov. 2 as the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists through Resolution 68/163, adopted on Dec. 18, 2013.

The date commemorates the killing of French journalists Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon, who were murdered in Mali on Nov. 2, 2013, while on assignment for Radio France Internationale.

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The PTFOMS said the observance draws attention to the failure to bring perpetrators of crimes against journalists to justice. It also serves as a reminder for governments to take measures to prevent violence against journalists, ensure accountability through impartial, speedy, and effective investigations, and bring perpetrators to justice. /ms