MARAWI CITY—Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) executive director Undersecretary Paul Gutierrez and Bangsamoro Chief Minister (CM) Ahod Ebrahim discussed reinforcing professionalism in responsible journalism for potential advancements in media within the Bangsamoro region in a November 24 courtesy visit.
The PTFoMS was created by Administrative Order No. 1, approved by former President Rodrigo Duterte to protect the lives, liberty, and security of media workers in the Philippines.
Usec. Gutierrez discussed with Minister Ebrahim the proposal to enact a measure that caters to the protection of media people and promotes media literacy in BARMM.
“The Media Welfare Act would increase media professionalism,” Gutierrez said.
He also mentioned that by implementing the media law, the Bangsamoro Government can already achieve an all-encompassing development of its sectors.
He highlighted the proposed March 2024 Media Summit, jointly coordinated with the Bangsamoro Information Office (BIO), as a crucial step toward cultivating an ethical, professional, and responsible approach to journalism among media practitioners and information officers. This initiative aligns with the Presidential Communications Office’s (PCO) campaign on promoting media literacy.
Ebrahim expressed optimism about supporting the suggested legislation and programs, mainly addressing concerns about Bangsamoro media workers’ welfare.
“There must really be a transformation. In case of challenges, we have to do something,” the Chief Minister said.
Usec. Gutierrez was joined by lawyer Hue Yro Go and journalist Editha Caduaya.
BIO Executive Director Ameen Andrew Alonto and Deputy Executive Director Ali Macabalang also joined.
The discussion on the possibilities to enact legislation, conduct relevant activities, and improve security—all benefiting the media population—is aligned with the first and 11th priorities under the Enhanced 12-Point Priority Agenda of the Chief Minister. (BIO/PIA Lanao del Sur)
BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim welcomes Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) executive director Undersecretary Paul Gutierrez on November 24, 2023, at the Office of the Chief Minister, Bangsamoro Government Center, Cotabato City. (Photo: BARMM Chief Minister’s FB Page)
