Ang Pahayagan

The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) renewed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) on Friday, July 11, 2025, to strengthen protections for media personnel through comprehensive legal aid, support services, and advocacy.

The signing ceremony was led by PAO Chief Persida V. Rueda-Acosta and PTFOMS Executive Director Jose Torres Jr., symbolizing a strong commitment to ensuring the safety, rights, and welfare of media workers across the Philippines.

“In this MOA, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to a common goal: the protection, safety, and security of media practitioners,” said Undersecretary Torres during his opening remarks at the ceremonial signing held at the PAO office in Quezon City.

Under the agreement, PTFOMS will oversee coordination efforts, identify and refer media personnel in need of legal assistance, and collaborate with PAO on training programs and policy advocacy. Conversely, PAO will provide legal aid, legal representation, and conduct workshops aimed at empowering media workers with knowledge of their rights.

“I would like to thank Chief Acosta and the entire PAO team for their unwavering dedication and steadfast support for press freedom and media safety. Her leadership and advocacy inspire us to continue strengthening our efforts to protect those who uphold our right to information,” said Torres.

He stressed that the initiative reflects the collective resolve “to create a safer environment for media practitioners and uphold the principles of justice and transparency.”

The collaboration exemplifies the commitment of PAO and PTFOMS to promote media freedom, strengthen the rule of law, and foster an environment where journalists can perform their vital roles without fear. (PR)