PHILIPPINES

NUJP Vows to Defend Press Freedom on Inaugural National Press Freedom Day

August 30, 2025
Vannesa Lee Orquestra

Every August 30, the Philippines will celebrate “National Press Freedom Day” in tribute to Marcelo H. del Pilar, a foundational figure in Philippine journalism. Del Pilar, who used the pen name “Plaridel,” was born on this day in 1850 and is remembered for his advocacy and contributions to the press.

Manila, Philippines – The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) has pledged to fiercely defend freedom of the press, coinciding with the nation’s first-ever National Press Freedom Day. This day of recognition arrives at a critical juncture, as Filipino journalists and media workers face escalating threats, including killings and legal challenges.

“We stand firm in our commitment,” declared the NUJP in a statement released this morning. “The attacks against members of the press are attacks against democracy itself. We will not be silenced.”

The NUJP’s declaration underscores the grave dangers faced by reporters and media outlets across the Philippines. Documented cases of violence against journalists, coupled with legal harassment, have created a chilling effect on the media landscape.

“Justice and democracy demand that we protect those who bring truth to light,” the statement continued. “We must fight for every journalist, for every voice that seeks to hold power accountable.”

Several events are planned throughout the country to mark National Press Freedom Day, including rallies, workshops, and memorial ceremonies honoring fallen journalists. The NUJP is urging all Filipinos to stand in solidarity with the press and to demand greater protection for media workers.

“An informed citizenry is the bedrock of a healthy democracy,” the NUJP emphasized. “When journalists are silenced, we all suffer.”

The organization has called on the government to take concrete steps to ensure the safety and security of journalists, to thoroughly investigate all cases of violence against the press, and to repeal laws that stifle free expression.

“The fight for press freedom is a fight for the soul of our nation,” the NUJP concluded. “We will not rest until justice and democracy prevail for everyone.”

READ MORE ARTICLES:

Cebu Forum to Tackle Government’s Role in Protecting Journalists on National Press Freedom Day

As the nation commemorates National Press Freedom Day today, a crucial panel discussion at the Marcelo B. Fernan Cebu Press Center will address the government’s responsibility in safeguarding journalists amid increasing threats, harassment, and unresolved attacks.

The forum, titled “Harassing, Killing Journalists: How ‘Media Security’ from Government Works,” will bring together legal experts, media leaders, and civil society advocates. The discussion aims to evaluate the effectiveness—and limitations—of state-led protection mechanisms for journalists.

This timely event coincides with the annual observance of National Press Freedom Day, established through Republic Act No. 11699. The law honors the birth of Marcelo H. del Pilar, the revered Father of Philippine Journalism, who was born on August 30, 1850. Del Pilar, known for his use of the pen to fight colonial oppression, championed reform and established journalism as a powerful force for resistance and truth.

Under Republic Act No. 11699, August 30 is recognized as a working holiday, with institutions across the country encouraged to promote awareness of press freedom, media rights, and the ethical responsibilities of journalists. The Cebu forum is expected to provide critical insights into how well the government is meeting its obligations under this law.

“The safety and security of journalists are paramount to a functioning democracy,” said one of the organizers. “This forum will provide a platform to openly discuss the challenges and identify concrete steps to improve the protection of media professionals.”

The panel will explore various issues, including the investigation and prosecution of those who attack journalists, the role of law enforcement in protecting media workers, and the legal and policy frameworks that support press freedom.

Participants hope the discussion will lead to actionable recommendations for the government and other stakeholders to enhance media security and ensure that journalists can continue to report without fear of reprisal.

As the nation observes National Press Freedom Day, a critical panel discussion in Cebu City will delve into the effectiveness of government-led media protection, amid escalating threats and a troubling number of unresolved attacks against journalists.

Organized by the Cebu Citizens-Press Council (CCPC) in collaboration with Cebu Journalism & Journalists (CJJ), the Center for Media Legal Aid (CEMLA), and other civic and private sector partners, the forum will take place at the Marcelo B. Fernan Cebu Press Center.

Titled “Harassing, Killing Journalists: How ‘Media Security’ from Government Works,” the event will feature prominent speakers including Maria G-Ree R. Calinawan, Regional Public Attorney of the Public Attorney’s Office; Ariel C. Sebellino, Executive Director of the Philippine Press Institute; and Jose A. Torres Jr., Executive Director of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security. Legal analyst and commentator Atty. Vincent Mendoza will moderate the discussion.

The conversation is expected to dissect the realities behind government-led media protection, exploring legal remedies, institutional accountability, and the crucial role of civil society in defending press freedom. Organizers hope the forum will galvanize stakeholders to confront the vulnerabilities faced by journalists and push for systemic reform.

The panel discussion follows the release of the 2024 update to the Cebu Media Workers Attack Tracker, a comprehensive record of violence, intimidation, and harassment against Cebu-based journalists. The tracker spans incidents dating back to 1961, including the assassination of Antonio Abad Tormis, and reveals a disturbing pattern of unresolved cases and emerging threats, both physical and digital.

“This forum is a vital opportunity to examine the gaps in media security and to demand greater accountability,” said a representative from the CCPC. “We must address the systemic issues that allow attacks against journalists to go unpunished.”

As the country reflects on Marcelo H. del Pilar’s legacy and the ongoing struggle for press freedom, the Cebu forum seeks to ignite dialogue, deepen public understanding, and reaffirm journalism’s role as a cornerstone of democracy.

For journalists, advocates, and citizens alike, August 30 is more than a commemorative date—it is a call to protect truth and to stand with those who risk everything to pursue it.

FACTS : Duterte Declares August 30 as National Press Freedom Day

President Rodrigo Duterte has officially designated August 30 of each year as “National Press Freedom Day” with the signing of Republic Act (RA) 11699. The law, inked on April 13, honors Marcelo H. del Pilar, the esteemed “Father of Philippine Journalism.”

Marcelo H. del Pilar, pen-named “Plaridel,” was born on August 30, 1890, and is celebrated for his significant contributions to Philippine journalism and his role in advocating for reforms during the Spanish colonial period.

RA 11699 stipulates that August 30 will be a working holiday, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of the press to Philippine society.

The new law directs all government agencies, private sector entities, and instrumentalities to actively participate in activities that promote the meaningful observance and celebration of National Press Freedom Day. This includes the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, government-owned and -controlled corporations, and local government units. They are encouraged to conduct activities within their respective offices and establishments.

The Department of Education (DepEd), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) are mandated to spearhead consciousness-raising activities in public and private schools at all levels. These activities will focus on the importance of the press, their rights, and their social responsibilities.

Furthermore, DepEd, CHED, and TESDA are tasked with ensuring that the elimination of all forms of violence against the press is integrated into educational curricula.

In coordinating these activities, the three departments are required to consult with the Office of the President, government, and private media organizations to ensure a comprehensive and meaningful observance of National Press Freedom Day.

A copy of RA 11699 was released by the Palace on Wednesday, marking the official enactment of the law.