United Nations declared May 3 as the World Press Freedom Day but as we look back, the suppression of Press Freedom in the Philippines has never been more evident years after the Martial Law.
Whilst Filipinos struggle to survive the current pandemic crisis, battling out the threat of the disease and hunger brought about by the negligence of its government, they ought to cry out their suffering and desperation for their needs. Unfortunately, the pleas have not only fallen to deaf ears and answered with misleading statements, but they have been strategically tapered as well, downplaying the grave effects of the crisis.
Progressive individuals, notably journalists and activists have voiced out their discontent and were immediately quelled. Shushing the criticisms and bandaging loopholes, we continue to trudge unto uncertainty leaving us more vulnerable at each step. In addition, Anti-Terror Law was passed, the UP-DND called off, and the Prudente-Ramos Accord on the verge of being tipped to the bin leaving students, professionals, and organizations susceptible to uncalled for persecution with “one wrong move”. We will continually be at risk as the cloud of oppression and suppression grows and will continue restraining us if we do not take a stand against these grave threats.
Our conviction to stand with the mass and the oppressed will always be stronger than any blow caused by the fascist state. Our democratic rights shall remain intact even if it is to be killed by a thousand cuts, the pressure is not on us, it is on them as we expose the actual condition and situation of the basic masses under an oppressive and exploitative society.
Thus, with greater reason, we need to protect and sustain our democracy. Our freedom to know, say, and write whatever we intend to impart others that are of significance to the actual and material conditions of the people. Despite the pitfalls and restrictions, we should come together in our own little ways to protect what is rightfully ours. Freedom always starts within us, and justice shall always be served. Do not hesitate to grab your pen and write, as we engage in battle to protect our innate freedom to live in a humane society. Act and uphold our democratic rights; uphold genuine press freedom. We must hold the line.
Ipagtagumpay natin ang laban para sa mas Malayang Pamamahayag patungo sa isang Makataong Lipunan!
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