The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) announced on Tuesday, Oct.11, that it has started its investigation into the physical assault against radio broadcaster Florencio ‘Flo’ Hervias in Iloilo.
In a statement, CHR said they were alarmed by how the incident occurred days only after the murder of radio commentator Percy Lapid.
“CHR stands with the media community in denouncing all threats and attacks to press freedom. We trust that the Philippine National Police (PNP) will investigate this matter with the same fervor and urgency,” it said.
The Commission said they would continue working alongside local authorities in investigating all potential leads to ascertain justice for Hervias.
It likewise echoed the victim’s appeal to law enforcement officers for temporary assistance to guarantee his safety and security.
“We cannot risk increased incidence of these brazen and violent episodes. Hampering media workers from the conduct of their journalistic responsibilities breeds a culture of impunity that endangers our democracy,” CHR said.
“As duty bearers, we must do what we can to uphold the people’s right to truth, information, and expression. And in that undertaking, we must regard journalists as genuine allies towards nation-building,” it added.
The Commission also renewed its call to protect journalism and defend press freedom in the country.
On Friday, Oct. 7, four men who pretended to be garbage collectors attacked Hervias right after he had just left his company’s building.
The radio broadcaster sustained lacerations on his nose, mouth, and near his eyes.
