The Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) on Thursday issued a statement in support of journalist Regine Cabato, who is facing a wave of online attacks following public accusations made by the Chinese Embassy against her reportage and that of the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ).
FOCAP noted that the surge in online harassment began shortly after the Embassy publicly questioned PCIJ’s independence and funding, in response to the nonprofit media organization’s February 21 video on identifying pro‑China propaganda, which Cabato contributed to.
“While governments and institutions have the right to respond to or dispute media reports, public accusations that question the integrity of journalists, particularly when amplified through official channels and social media, risk undermining press freedom and may contribute to online harassment against media workers,” the statement read.
“FOCAP stands with Cabato and with all journalists who have been subjected to coordinated online harassment, a tactic that has been repeatedly weaponized by various actors to intimidate the press and suppress critical reporting. Such attacks undermine the public’s right to information and create a hostile environment for independent journalism,” it added.
FOCAP called on all parties, including diplomatic missions and public officials, to engage responsibly with the media and uphold an environment where journalists can work freely and safely.
“At a time when the Philippines faces complex regional and domestic challenges, the need for accurate, contextual, and independent reporting is greater than ever. Truth should not be drowned out by intimidation, nor should journalists be discredited for doing their jobs,” the statement read.
“FOCAP reiterates the importance of protecting press freedom and ensuring that public debate remains grounded in facts, transparency, and respect for the role of the press,” it concluded.
