The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) has raised its alert level amid a rise in threats and violence against journalists and media workers as the midterm elections approach.

“The Presidential Task Force on Media Security is on alert these weeks, especially with the upcoming midterm elections,” said PTFoMS executive director Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr. during a news forum in Quezon City on Saturday.

Torres highlighted the case of DZRH reporter Romeo Beñas, who received threatening messages and a video call on 21 April from La Paz, Abra Mayor Joseph Bernos, who is running for Congress in the Lone District of Abra.

“We’re investigating the reported threat made by Mayor Bernos, and we’re working closely with law enforcement agencies,” Torres added, noting that the task force is in coordination with the Philippine National Police and the National Bureau of Investigation.

In another incident, unknown assailants fired upon the residence of Reynaldo Siason, former president of the Negros Press Club and a radio broadcaster, in Talisay City, Negros Occidental, on 20 April. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but the PTFoMS has deemed it a serious threat to press freedom.

Torres emphasized the importance of respecting press freedom, urging all election candidates to allow journalists to do their jobs without fear of retaliation or violence.