Bill expanding journos’ protection heads to Bicam

MANILA – A measure expanding protections to legitimate online and broadcast journalists will soon be sent to Congress’ bicameral conference committee.

The House of Representatives unanimously approved on third and final reading House Bill No. 684, which includes television, radio, online, and wire service journalists among media practitioners who cannot be compelled to reveal their sources.

Raul del Mar ( Cebu City, 1st District), Harlin Abayon III ( Aangat Tayo party- list) and Antonio Tinio (ACT Teachers party- list) coauthored House Bill No. 684, which seeks to amend the 70-year-old Republic Act 53, or the Shield Law.

A similar bill was approved in the Senate in April. Grace Poe sponsored while Vicente Sotto III and Antonio Trillanes IV coauthored Senate Bill No. 1255.

In his explanatory note, del Mar said the measure “will not only strengthen confidence in these other journalists but also recognize the important role that they, together with print practitioners, play in the building of community and nation.”

Under the Shield Law, a publisher, editor, columnist, or duly accredited reporter of any newspaper, magazine or periodical of general circulation can refuse to reveal the source of a confidential news report or information except when the court or a House committee of Congress finds that the revelation is demanded by the security of the state.

“The reason for this is that the identity of sources of a confidential news or information must be protected. Otherwise, the spring of data for news or commentary dries up, and the omission of the press to check and balance and expose wrongdoing is impeded,” del Mar said.

The outdated l aw was “silent about journalists from broadcast stations, news or wire agencies, and internet newspapers, magazines and other publications,” he added.

If the measure hurdles the bicameral conference committee, it will be transmitted to the Office of the President for signing into law./