The embassies of France, Canada, and the Netherlands in the Philippines on Tuesday said that there is a chilling effect caused by the killing of broadcast commentator Percival Mabasa, also known as Percival Lapid.
In a statement, the Embassies of Canada and the Netherlands, co-chairs of the Media Freedom Coalition in the Philippines, expressed their “grave concern” about the killing of Mabasa by unidentified assailants Monday night.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones he left behind,” they said in a joint statement posted on their Facebook Page.
“Journalist killings strike at the very core of media freedom and can create a chilling effect that curtails the ability of journalists to report the news freely and safely. Such attacks on media workers must be urgently investigated, and those responsible must be held to account,” the post added.
As co-chairs of the Media Freedom Coalition, the two Embassies said they welcomed the swift action of law enforcement agencies to investigate Mabasa’s death.
They also urged Philippine authorities to “take concrete steps to ensure not only that the perpetrators are brought to justice, but to create a safe environment for journalists to carry out their work without fear for their lives and safety.”
In a separate post, the Embassy of France in the Philippines also expressed its solidarity with the family of Mabasa.
“It supports the declaration by the Media Freedom Coalition co-chairs. France reaffirms its resolute, unwavering commitment to the freedom of the press, freedom of speech, and protection of journalists,” the post read.
The Media Freedom Coalition is a global diplomatic network of 52 countries that pledges to defend media freedom where and when it is under threat. These countries are working together proactively to advocate for media freedom at home and abroad.