THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has launched a motu proprio investigation into the murder of broadcast journalist Erwin Segovia by unidentified assailants on July 21 in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur.
Initial details show the victim was riding a motorcycle when he was shot in the head and killed shortly after airing his program on radio station 95.8 DXCB FM.
The CHR condemned the crime as another assault on press freedom in the country.
“While the motive remains unclear, any act of violence against journalists casts a chilling effect on media practitioners across the country,” the CHR said.
“The Commission reaffirms that media workers must be able to perform their duties without facing threats, harassment, or violence. CHR believes that a free and independent press is the backbone of a functioning democracy,” it added.
The commission commended the prompt response of law enforcement authorities at the crime scene even as it called for a “swift, transparent, and impartial investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.”
“The right to freedom of expression, as enshrined in the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, guarantees the protection of press freedom and free expression within the bounds of the law. Any attack on this right is an attack on democracy itself,” the CHR stressed.
Earlier, the commission submitted its position paper to the Senate expressing its support for the proposed Media and Entertainment Workers’ Welfare Act which aims to enhance protection, security, and benefits for media and entertainment professionals, ensuring fair treatment and improved working conditions.
It highlighted the importance of providing hazard pay for media workers assigned to dangerous areas, with clear guidelines to ensure consistency and fairness.
It also backed calls for convening a News Media Tripartite Council to foster dialogue among media workers, companies, and government agencies which aligns with the Philippine Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists or PPASJ that espouses a multi-stakeholder approach in addressing the unique risks and challenges faced by media professionals.
The CHR said these initiatives contribute to a more secure and enabling environment for media practitioners, reinforcing their role in a democratic society.
