Tuesday, December 01, 2009

Maguindanao Massacre- Proof of clamped press freedom in the Philippines


I'd like to convey my respects to the brave men and women from the media- who has to sadly lose their lives in seek of truth in a political turmoil that has blown out of proportions. The 30 who were not only killed but butchered on a hillside road in Ampatuan, Maguindanao is another eye opener of the worsening situation here in the Philippines- Jesus Christ we have capped off Iraq and earned the reputation as the most dangerous country on earth for journalists!

For the nth time, media practioners should not be entwined with agendas and must not be harmed for they are the "chroniclers". A hapless event such as this must not go about off the hook because it clearly defines that the country (as with the past killings) is now run with powerful hoodlums in robes; whom will never stop silencing media critics, SIMPLY BECAUSE THEY CAN GET AWAY WITH IT...

This blow to Press Freedom in the country brings the tally to 134 deaths of media men murdered since the tug of war for democracy in 1986 with a lot of cases still unsolved; with deaths blamed on political warlords who control the police and the justice arm within their realms- all hell bent to preserve their seats and are useful for political patrons as they bring in "the votes" for political parties. In the Arroyo administration alone, the number is already 74 and rising...?

When news broke out of the massacre- the whole world was virtually shocked and a lot of protests and condemnations issued, candles lit and protest rallies staged in honor of the lives lost in what's been dubbed as the worst attack in the world against media practitioners.

Unprecedented as it may seem, this reputation is a stern reflection that needs immediate action not only for the ones in power but for everyone... unless of course we Filipinos are contented to live with shame in the eyes of the world...


20 comments:

Mark @ "Secrets of Success" said...

Jovir, I was thinking of getting in touch with you about this mishap earlier. You've written well, and done due justice from your side. I too condemn the killings and associated brutalities, and really hope and pray that each and every single hand involved in this brutal act is brought to trial. The slayings happened, the news spread, and the news soon lost intensity... the killers are still moving around freely, but the news is dying, and it really makes me wonder, will they really be brought to justice?

Jovir said...

Hi Mark, good one. Yup pressure is building up on the alleged perpetrators- the Ampatuan's (father and son and serving in the posts as governor and mayor)and a lot of the accomplices' to the massacre have come to light to aide in the trials. Getting passe on this act is impossible as a lot of eyes are looking; so conviction is in the works.

Mark @ "Secrets of Success" said...

Yes Jovir, considering that the murderers (at least the main ones responsible for the act) have been clearly identified, one would expect that they would be behind bars soon. But we've seen it happening too many times, and I wouldn't be surprised to see it happening yet again, that those who are politically connected somehow manage to get away with anything and everything. And we are talking about those allied to the ruling party here, so it calls for even more skepticism. The story is already gone from the focus of international news. How is it catching up locally in Philippines? I've got nothing personal to do with this, but I sure am waiting to see some justice done to all those who lost their lives and to their families and friends. May justice prevail.

Jovir said...

Yup Mark as of press time, the president has already declared Martial Law on the whole province of Maguindanao, with the armed forces and police units barging in the mansions of the alleged perpetrators; confiscating guns and ammos and dismissing their goons. Those who were pointed out by the witnesses and including their kins are now brought in various key centers for questioning.
The turn out has been positive so far as the government and its justice arm has shown sincerity- that it will not hesitate to go to war just to get the suspects.
If you happen to tune in on the local news, the place looks hell tight as Iraq, with over 4-6 batallions of combined army and police forces and mechanized units scouring and guarding the whole place! cheers...

Jovir Amatong said...

Hi DH, how are you doin? thanks much for the compliment, always been glad here to share what I can.

You have a nice site, very helpful and informative as well. Cheers always!

Philippines Web Design said...

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Thanks for commenting on my blog about Cebu...I have linked our sites....

Message in a Bottle said...

Hi, WMS thanks for the compliment. You also have a great site. Sure ill link with your site as well.Cheers always.

The Scribe

Philippines Call Center said...

I just hate how other people manipulate the law. Just because they are rich and powerful doesn't always mean they can do everything they want. I hope the newly elected President Noynoy will be able to solve the problems dealing with crime especially media killing.

God bless the souls of those who have been victims of this crime.

victor peterson said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Message in a Bottle said...

Hi PCC, yup I guess we'll just have to cross our fingers and hope for the best for his coming reign. Cheers

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Message in a Bottle said...

Hi marven, thanks for the comment. Yup certainly hope so.

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