By The Executive Board, International Association of Women in Radio and Television-Philippines
The International Association of Women in Radio and Television – Philippines condemns the latest attempts to discredit Filipino women journalists covering the International Criminal Court (ICC) trial of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
The most recent case involves GMA 7 reporter Mariz Umali, falsely accused of calling former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea “matanda” (old)—a misinterpretation, she says.
The online firestorm that followed was laced with misogyny and vitriol. Even Ramon Tulfo, brother of a senator, took part, posting a remark so vile it defies decency.
This is a pattern.
Journalists Zen Hernandez and Gretchen Ho, also covering the ICC proceedings, have been targeted too. Their crime? Doing their jobs.
As women journalists, we stand together. This must stop. Harassment is not criticism; it is an attempt to silence. And a press under attack is a democracy at risk.
Their voices matter. Their work matters. And their safety must be protected. #
