The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) is pleased to announce that the Philippines has achieved its highest ranking in 21 years on the World Press Freedom Index, as released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The country now stands at 116th place out of 180 countries and territories, a notable rise from 134th in 2024, signaling significant enhancements in press freedom.
RSF’s report, released on May 2, highlights substantial improvements in the safety and legal frameworks for Philippine media. The nation’s overall score climbed by 6.2 points to 49.57 in 2025, reflecting progress across various contextual indicators.
“This ranking is a welcome development on the eve of World Press Freedom Day and a boost to our efforts to address media-related threats and attacks,” said PTFOMS Executive Director Jose Torres Jr.
Earlier, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) noted that 2024 marked the first year in two decades without a journalist fatality in the Philippines, a historic achievement that underscores enhanced safety for media workers. Reports also indicate a decline in legal harassment cases, reflecting an improving legal environment for journalists.
“This progress is a testament to our collective efforts in protecting press freedom. It demonstrates that our proactive initiatives are yielding results,” Torres said.
“With the cooperation of government agencies like the Department of Justice and the Philippine National Police, as well as our media partners, we will remain vigilant in defending press freedom and ensuring the safety of journalists.”
Torres acknowledged the ongoing challenges being faced by the Philippine media. “We recognize the difficulties we continue to face, including the recent killing of veteran journalist Juan Dayang. We are deeply saddened by this incident. No Filipino, whether journalist or not, should suffer the fate of Mr. Dayang.”
He assured the public that “the Philippine National Police is actively investigating to determine the motive behind the attack.”
Torres called on the public to join efforts in protecting press freedom. “A free and independent press is the cornerstone of democracy, guaranteeing transparency and accountability in governance,” he said.
“Every voice is crucial in defending journalistic freedom,” he added, highlighting the importance of civic engagement.
“As we continue our mission, we urge every Filipino to support an environment conducive to fearless journalism, where truth is actively sought and openly shared. Let us work together to build on this momentum, ensuring lasting progress that will benefit our people,” Torres said.
He underscored PTFOMS’s unwavering commitment to advancing press freedom, recognizing the strides made while focusing on the collective effort needed for enduring change. # (PTFOMS)
