Philippines rises in World Press Freedom Index
Manila Times
05 May 2025
THE Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) welcomed the Philippines' highest ranking in the World Press Freedom Index in 21 years, crediting it to the present administration's boosted efforts to enhance the safety and security of media workers in the country.
The index, released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), showed the Philippines at 116th place out of 180 countries and territories. This is a notable rise from the 134th spot in 2024, signaling significant enhancements in press freedom.
PTFOMS Executive Director Jose Torres Jr. said that the RSF report highlights substantial improvements in the safety and legal frameworks for Philippine media.
The nation's overall score climbed by 6.2 points to 49.57 in 2025, reflecting progress across various contextual indicators.
"This ranking is a welcome development on the eve of World Press Freedom Day and a boost to our efforts to address media-related threats and attacks," Torres said in a statement.
Earlier, the Committee to Protect Journalists noted that 2024 marked the first year in two decades without a journalist fatality in the Philippines, a historic achievement that underscores enhanced safety for media workers. Reports also indicate a decline in legal harassment cases, reflecting an improving legal environment for journalists.
"This progress is a testament to our collective efforts in protecting press freedom. It demonstrates that our proactive initiatives are yielding results," the official noted.
"With the cooperation of government agencies like the Department of Justice and the Philippine National Police, as well as our media partners, we will remain vigilant in defending press freedom and ensuring the safety of journalists," he added.
The PTFOMS chief likewise acknowledged the challenges being faced by the Philippine media.
"We recognize the difficulties we continue to face, including the recent killing of veteran journalist Juan Dayang. We are deeply saddened by this incident. No Filipino, whether journalist or not, should suffer the fate of Mr. Dayang," he said, vowing to leave no stone unturned in the investigation to "determine the motive behind the attack."
Torres also called on the public to join efforts in protecting press freedom.
"A free and independent press is the cornerstone of democracy, guaranteeing transparency and accountability in governance. Every voice is crucial in defending journalistic freedom," he said.
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