Manila: With the start of campaign for local posts three weeks away, police should step up efforts to neutralise private armies and political warlords, senate candidate Grace Poe said.
She said improved gun control efforts is a step to prevent violence against media people covering campaign in areas noted for political rivalries. “Recent campaigns have seen an uptick of violence against journalists ranging from threats and intimidation to physical assault. This has to stop. Reporters should not be in the line of fire for doing their jobs.”
She stressed the need for speedy action by prosecutors and courts on harassment complaints filed by journalists against armed groups or political figures.
“The perception that cases of media killings go unpunished, that silencing the press by strong-arm tactics is largely ignored, fosters a culture of impunity. ” Poe said.
The Philippine Star
