Daily TribuneBuilding BARMM as an integral part of the Philippine democratic system means strengthening and protecting the freedom and ability of the news media to act as the fourth state.
The British Embassy, the Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication, the Asia Foundation and the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism collaborate to protect journalists from intimidation and violence. (Photograph courtesy of British Embassy Manila)
The British Embassy Manila continues its commitment to promote press freedom and journalist safety in the Philippines, especially in Mindanao.
Coming together in reflection of the importance of protecting journalists as they seek to do their jobs, the embassy, the Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication, the Asia Foundation and the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism signed a partnership agreement that upholds the pivotal role journalism plays in democracies like the Philippines and the UK.
British ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils: "By working together, we aim to create an environment where journalists can go about their work safely, free from intimidation and violence."
The collaborative effort will provide comprehensive support, including capacity-building initiatives to journalists on safety, fact-checking and sensitive reporting.
It will also support their advocacy efforts, and help journalists build platforms to tackle human rights and security issues, enhancing the resilience of media professionals in the region.
AIJC president Olivia Celeste Villafuerte: "Building BARMM as an integral part of the Philippine democratic system means strengthening and protecting the freedom and ability of the news media to act as the fourth state."
The support was provided through the United Kingdom Government's Conflict, Stability and Security Fund Program which has provided over P880 milliom to projects in Mindanao since 2020.
It primarily focuses on three interconnected strands: strengthening institutions and the regional parliament, enhancing women's participation in the political process and promoting active civic engagement across BARMM.
