The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS), in coordination with the PNP Media Security Vanguard, has launched an investigation into reported threats made by Abra congressional candidate and La Paz Mayor JB Bernos against DZRH provincial correspondent Romy Gonzales.
National Press Club (NPC) President Leonel Abasola condemned the threat and said such dangers are sadly common especially in provinces, especially as the 2025 midterm elections draw near.
“Mas lalo [mainit] sa probinsya, sa mga lalawigan [ang politika],” he said.
“Sa kaso ni Mr. Gonzales nakipag-ugnayan na tayo sa Presidential Task Force on Media Security and as of now po mayroon na silang team na nag-ka-conduct ng investigation sa case na po ‘yan,” Abosola added.
The threats came after Gonzales reported a shootout between police and armed groups in Barangay Budac, Tayum, Abra, which occurred on April 21.
Following the complaint, Gonzales allegedly got threatening messages and frequent verbal abuse from Bernos, who apparently called him and told that he would "come after him."
In response, the PNP Media Security Vanguard has stepped in to assist Gonzales.
Chief of the PNP Public Information Office PCol Randulf Tuaño, confirmed that they have gathered substantial initial evidence and are preparing to file charges related to the threats.
“Ipa-file po natin yun pong threat po ng kanilang kaso at titingnan pa po ni nung kanilang attorney kung ano pa ang kanilang pwedeng ikaso,” PNP PIO Chief Tuaño said.
“Sapagkat yung mga ebidensya naman po ay medyo malalakas, solid yung kanyang mga print ng mga text messages yung FB (Facebook), Messenger at yung pong digital elements po” Tuaño continued.
The reactivation of the PNP Media Security Vanguard this election season serves as a support mechanism to the Presidential Task Force on Media Security, aiming to protect journalists and ensure press freedom amid rising political tensions.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as investigations progress.
