BP – MMC STATEMENT ON MAGUINDANAO MASSACRE
November 23, 2009 is one of the darkest days for Philippine journalism. The cold-blooded slaughter of journalists and politicians in Maguindanao brings to light the glaring truth that in our country, journalism is a dangerous and life-threatening profession. There is no turning back. This event has forever blighted the journalism industry in our country.
The Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas-Metro Manila Chapter absolutely condemns this criminal act and at the same time, clamors for justice for the murdered men and women – the politicians, lawyers, innocent motorists and members of the print and broadcast media.
Our organization is profoundly saddened and shocked that this can happen in a democracy such as ours. It is even more distressing to note that this is not an isolated incident. Over the past few years, we have seen the cold-blooded murders of our fellow journalists, who, in their zeal in performing the noble objectives of their profession, have shed their blood and risked their lives. Such bloodshed is unnecessary and sickening. It is by no means excusable or justifiable.
How can we claim to be a country that espouses the ideals of democracy when we slay journalists – those who guard the truth and stand for freedom of speech and expression?
This must not continue. Violence against journalists must be put to an end. We must take great pains to ensure that this will never happen again.
Equally important is achieving justice for the victims and their families. Those responsible must be dealt with to the full extent of the law at the soonest possible time. The government must ensure that the gunmen and the big people behind them are put behind bars and be held fully accountable for their truly malevolent act.
Political power is a dangerous thing, but never more dangerous in the hands of those whose lust for it far outweighs the noble responsibility of serving the people. So wrest the powers from them, if we must, and reclaim justice. This is what we must do, and we must do it now.
BY: REY LANGIT
Chairman
Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas-Metro Manila Chapter
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