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MANILA, Philippines — As the Philippines marked National Press Freedom Day on Sunday, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) called for stronger safeguards for journalists, citing the country’s 114th ranking in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index of Reporters Without Borders.

In a statement, the CHR warned that press freedom in the Philippines continues to “face serious challenges.”

“The lack of accountability for crimes against media workers perpetuates a dangerous cycle of impunity,” it said as it urged the government to ensure swift justice for victims and their families.

The CHR added that Red-tagging, vilification and other forms of intimidation likewise pose threats to journalists and the public’s right to information.