Task Force Reaffirms Commitment to Journalist Protection on 16th Anniversary of Maguindanao Massacre

The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) has reaffirmed its dedication to protecting Filipino journalists and ensuring justice for those affected by media-related violence, coinciding with the 16th anniversary of the 2009 Maguindanao massacre.

In an official statement, PTFoMS expressed deep solidarity with the families of the 58 individuals who lost their lives in the deadliest attack against media personnel and election-related violence in Philippine history. The task force honored the fallen journalists and media workers for their fearless commitment to truth-telling.

"Their sacrifice reminds us of the dangers faced by media professionals in the pursuit of press freedom," the agency stated.

PTFoMS also acknowledged the continuous calls for accountability from the victims’ families,

"This is not merely a demand for retribution; it is a resolute call for an end to impunity and guarantees that such atrocities will never recur," it added.

The task force pledged to maintain efforts to protect media practitioners, uphold the rule of law, and foster a safe environment that defends press freedom.

On November 23, 2009, 58 people—including 32 journalists—were brutally murdered in Ampatuan, Maguindanao. The victims were covering a convoy led by supporters of then Buluan Vice Mayor Esmael Mangudadatu, who was filing his certificate of candidacy to challenge Andal Ampatuan Sr. in the 2010 gubernatorial elections. Over 100 assailants abducted, executed, and buried the convoy members in a mass grave, with six victims unrelated to the convoy.

The PTFoMS highlighted the conviction of key suspects, including members of the Ampatuan family in December 2019, as a vital milestone toward justice. However, it recognized ongoing appeals and reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to ensure comprehensive accountability through legal channels.

The agency emphasized that the legacy of the 32 media workers will continue to inspire collective efforts to secure justice for all massacre victims.

Similarly, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) voiced support for the victims’ families, urging resolution of pending appeals, including official recognition of the 58th victim, Reynaldo "Bebot" Momay, as well as claims for damages by heirs.

The NUJP noted that many conditions confronting media professionals in 2009 persist today,

"Political dynasties remain entrenched, and economic vulnerabilities continue to place media workers at risk amid power struggles," it stated.

The organization called for ongoing efforts to enhance media safety, maintain editorial independence, and secure living wages for journalists, particularly regional reporters who remain among the most underpaid and exposed within the media community.