Malacanang on Thursday said the Philippine National Police (PNP) is intensifying its efforts to solve the killings of media practitioners in the country.
"Our law enforcement authorities are working round the clock on the swift resolution of the murders of journalists and we expect the PNP to double its efforts in the prevention of these heinous crimes," Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye said.
The Philippines now ranks second to Iraq on the list of deadliest countries for journalists in 2005. Last year, more than 60 journalists were killed and 1,300 physically attacked or threatened worldwide making 2005 the deadliest year since 1995, according to Reporters Without Borders.
In Iraq, two dozen journalists and five media assistants were killed last year, making it the deadliest country for the third year running.
The PNP, Bunye said, has created a special team to handle and investigate attacks against journalists and the Palace expects it to deliver positive results.
Bunye urged citizens and witnesses to killings of journalists to cooperate with law enforcement authorities and testifying against the suspects.
"Ordinary citizens can also be a part of this effort by coming out to testify when needed. We must work together to protect our journalists in order for them to practice their profession without fear of harm and harassment," he said.
Bunye stressed that "press freedom has always been a strong pillar of Philippine democracy."
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