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The state of press freedom in the Philippines has come under renewed scrutiny following two alarming developments: the continued detention of investigative journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio and the murder of radio broadcaster Erwin Labitad Segovia.
Cumpio, who has been held in Tacloban Prison for over five years, faces charges widely criticized as politically motivated. A recent investigation by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) revealed serious inconsistencies in her case file and a lack of concrete evidence to justify her prolonged imprisonment. RSF has called for her immediate release, citing violations of due process and press freedom.
Meanwhile, on July 21, Segovia—known for his outspoken commentary on local governance and social issues through his program Diritsahan! on Radio WOW FM—was shot in the head by unidentified assailants while riding his motorcycle home in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur. Authorities have launched a Special Investigation Task Group and a hot pursuit operation to apprehend the suspects.
Segovia is the fifth radio journalist killed since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took office in 2022. His death underscores the persistent culture of impunity surrounding crimes against journalists in the country, which ranks 116th out of 180 in RSF’s 2025 World Press Freedom Index.
Both cases highlight the urgent need for systemic reforms to protect journalists, ensure accountability, and uphold democratic principles in the Philippines. You can read more from RSF, the South China Morning Post, and the Committee to Protect Journalists.
