CHR urges gov’t to support free press

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Friday urged the government to support a free press.
 
The commission issued the call after the proposed Media Workers’ Welfare Act was refiled in the 19th Congress.
 
Among the key features of House Bill 454 are entitlements to overtime pay, night shift premiums, and wages that should not be below the minimum wage in their respective regions.
 
Moreover, they should receive hazard pay and be provided with appropriate basic safety equipment when covering dangerous assignments and locations.
 
“CHR commends the intention of the said bill to improve the welfare and work conditions of media workers who courageously seek and report the truth despite the risks,” the commission said in a statement. 

“Upholding the dignity and labor rights of media workers is essential to the flourishing of press freedom while also enhancing the people’s right to timely and accurate information,” it added.

The CHR, citing the threats and attacks in recent years that have undermined the free press, said that the proposed measure can help boost the morale of media workers and may encourage more young people to pursue a career in this field. 

“The commission continues to call for support in defense of free press. We continue to urge the government and the public to acknowledge and defend the role of media in providing fair and accurate information that contributes to [the] durable democracy that we all deserve and aspire [to],” the CHR said.
 
The CHR, meanwhile, said it launched an investigation into the killing of radio broadcaster Renato Blanco in Mabinay, Negros Oriental on September 18.
 
The commission called for “speedy justice in this case and other rights violations and attacks against members of the press.”
 
It also recognized the “undeniable role” of the media in helping citizens receive accurate and timely information.

“We call on the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to extend his commitment [to] upholding human rights to the protection of the media in the country so they may carry out their work freely and safely,” the CHR said.

“Attacks against the free press impact the human rights situation in the country. We look forward to the resolution of this case, alongside other rights violations committed in the country, for the sake of justice and curbing impunity,” it added.
 
GMA News Online sought comment from the Office of the Press Secretary but has yet to receive any as of this posting. — VBL, GMA News