Special prosecutor for crimes vs journalists sought

United Nations special rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression Irene Khan has recommended the appointment of special prosecutors who would handle crimes against journalists and other human rights defenders.

- JANVIC MATEO

In her exit statement following her 10-day official visit, Khan noted that the Philippines remains one of the most dangerous countries for journalists.

She cited data from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, which showed that only 10 cases out of 117 journalists killed in the Philippines in the past 30 years have been fully resolved.

"Violence against journalists and human rights defenders was particularly high during the Duterte administration. However, the past 18 months (have shown) that the trend remains disturbing, with four journalists killed since the new administration took office," the UN official said.

"Clearly, much more needs to be done to eliminate impunity," she added.

Khan noted efforts of the Department of Justice to strengthen investigation and prosecution, such as the issuance of circulars that mandate autopsy for all suspicious or violent deaths and better collaboration to improve evidence collection and ensure higher conviction rates.

She pointed out, however, that "only the concrete figures of impunity will indicate whether these measures are adequate and effective." "In my view, the government needs to establish a dedicated special prosecutor for crimes against journalists and human rights defenders," she said.

The UN official also underscored the need for other protection and prevention measures to ensure the safety of journalists.

The main mechanism for the safety of journalists, the Presidential Task Force for Media Security (PTFOMS), "does not seem to be sufficient institutional capacity, proper systems or a clear policy framework on the protection and safety and prevention of attacks on journalists, to compel all relevant agencies and entities to invest sufficiently in this issue," she said.