A network of community journalists in the Philippines marked the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists with a renewed call for the immediate release of detained journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio.
Cumpio, a community journalist known for her work on human rights and environmental issues, has been held on what her supporters describe as politically motivated charges meant to silence her reporting.
In a statement issued on Nov. 7, Altermidya Network emphasized the global significance of the day, which honors journalists worldwide who face threats, harassment, and even death for their work.
The observance, the group noted, is “a reminder of the unyielding courage and sacrifice” required of journalists who challenge powerful forces in pursuit of truth.
At an ecumenical gathering jointly organized by Altermidya Network and the United Church of Christ in the Philippines, groups urged the government and local courts to heed the call for justice for Cumpio and other activists subjected to state-sponsored attacks.
Rev. Irma Balaba of the Promotion of Church People’s Response described Cumpio as a “barefoot reporter” who served, she said, as “an instrument to amplify the voices of marginalized and vulnerable sectors” in Eastern Visayas.
The Protestant pastor condemned the “baseless” accusations against Cumpio and Marielle Domequil, a church worker who was arrested and detained alongside Cumpio.
Cumpio and Domequil, along with three other activists collectively known as the “Tacloban 5,” were arrested on February 7, 2020, in a joint military and police raid in Tacloban City.
Cumpio is set to testify in court on November 11 for the first time since her arrest.
Raymund Villanueva, chairperson of Altermidya Network, expressed optimism that “truth will be revealed and justice will be served” for Cumpio, who he said is a victim of trumped-up charges and state-sponsored attacks.
“We have nothing to fear because we are on the side of truth; Frenchie is on the side of truth. The government must immediately release Frenchie and uphold justice,” said Villanueva.
In the Philippines, journalists are no strangers to these risks. Beyond Cumpio’s detention, the group cited a persistent atmosphere of harassment and red-tagging—a form of intimidation that associates individuals with the communist insurgency.
Despite this, community journalists continue to cover critical issues that amplify marginalized voices and shed light on social injustices.
“Ending impunity is not only a matter of accountability but an imperative for the right to information and an informed, democratic society,” the group said.
The call for Cumpio’s release reflects a growing concern about press freedom in the Philippines, where advocates argue that state forces have used harassment, detention, and prosecution to silence dissenting voices, according to Altermidya.
The network urged the Philippine government to “fulfill its responsibility to protect journalists” and to expedite investigations into crimes against the press.
The statement also highlighted the situation in other regions, particularly Palestine, where attacks on media workers have escalated.
“We remember those who have lost their lives in the line of duty and reaffirm our collective commitment to defending press freedom,” the group said, noting the importance of international solidarity in confronting impunity.
The network encouraged journalists to resist self-censorship despite the mounting pressures. “Only through our collective courage and solidarity can we safeguard our community, uphold the public’s right to know, and protect the integrity of a free and independent press,” the statement read.
