PTFOMS welcomes Supreme Court approval of venue transfer in broadcaster’s murder case

DAVAO CITY (April 23) — The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) has welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision to approve the transfer of venue for the murder trial of broadcaster Eduardo Dizon from the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Davao City to the RTC of Quezon City.

In a resolution dated July 17, 2024, and received by PTFOMS on March 20, 2025, the Supreme Court’s Third Division cited serious security concerns and the need to preserve the integrity of the proceedings. The Court acknowledged the threats faced by key witnesses and emphasized the importance of preventing undue influence on the case, leading to its transfer to Metro Manila.

“We sincerely thank the Honorable Supreme Court for its swift and decisive action to ensure a fair trial and protect those who courageously come forward with the truth,” said PTFOMS Executive Director, Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr.

PTFOMS described the ruling as a significant step forward in the government’s pursuit of justice for Eduardo Dizon and his family. The Task Force underscored that the safety and welfare of witnesses, along with the preservation of the judicial process’s credibility, remain top priorities. Recent data suggest that venue transfers in high-profile cases significantly improve both impartiality and witness protection.

Eduardo Dizon was a well-known broadcaster in Davao City, widely respected for his fearless reporting on sensitive issues, including corruption and governance. On the evening of July 17, 2021, he was gunned down near his home, an incident that sent shockwaves through the local and international media communities.

Eyewitnesses reported that Dizon was deliberately targeted, and early evidence indicated a strong link between his killing and his work as a journalist. Following the incident, media organizations, human rights groups, and civil society urged the government to act swiftly to investigate and prosecute those responsible.

While the case was initially filed before the RTC in Davao City, safety concerns, including credible threats to witnesses and fears of judicial bias, prompted PTFOMS to recommend a change of venue.

The Supreme Court’s approval reinforces a growing recognition of the need to create secure and impartial judicial environments, particularly for cases involving media workers.

PTFOMS reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the case’s progress in partnership with other government agencies and to providing support to ensure that justice is served.

“Justice for journalists is justice for all. This milestone is part of a larger fight. The government remains steadfast in protecting those who risk their lives for truth and transparency,” the statement added.

As the government’s lead agency for protecting media workers, PTFOMS continues to champion press freedom, emphasizing that efforts such as venue transfers are crucial to safeguarding democracy and holding perpetrators of media violence accountable.