'Media Security Vanguard' launched to enhance protection of journos

The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday launched the PTFOMS-PNP Media Security Vanguard initiative, which aims to enhance the safety of the media amid adversities. 

According to PTFoMS Executive Director Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr., this initiative marks a significant milestone of the PTFoMS commitment to develop the safety of media practitioners. 

''Your commitment to reporting the truth and your courage in the phase of adversity cannot be overstated,'' Torres said in his message during the launch, saying that the initiative is a proactive response to the urgent need of protecting journalists.

Under this initiative, Torres said the PTFoMS partnership with law enforcement agencies would be strengthened. The PNP Public Information Officers (PNP-PIOs) are tasked to assist in swiftly resolving cases of violence against the media, particularly during election period when threats tend to escalate.

They will also deploy specialized teams that are trained to respond swiftly to the concerns of media practitioners. 

Further, they will conduct workshops and seminars to equip journalists with the knowledge they need. —AOL, GMA Integrated News