DUMAGUETE CITY — The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) has pledged to facilitate media access to police blotters, addressing concerns over the availability of crucial information for journalistic reporting.
According to Philippines News Agency, executive director of PTFoMS, negotiations are underway with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Police Commission (Napolcom) to improve transparency. These discussions, highlighted during a media summit on Friday, focus on refining guidelines that balance media needs with privacy regulations. Gutierrez noted that forthcoming regulations from Napolcom next month will clarify the permissible scope of media access to police records, especially in light of the Data Privacy Act.
Journalists at the summit voiced frustrations over the omission of essential details in police reports, such as names of suspects and victims, which they argue hinders effective reporting. Lt. Stephen Polinar, a spokesperson for the Negros Oriental Police, acknowledged these limitations, citing privacy laws and PNP directives, but encouraged journalists to seek information from alternative sources when necessary.
The PTFoMS is also discussing the creation of a memorandum of agreement with Napolcom that will establish a network of 'media safety vanguards' among PNP public information officers nationwide to address issues of harassment and threats faced by journalists. This initiative is part of broader efforts to ensure that media practitioners have the necessary tools and protections to report effectively and safely.