DAVAO CITY –— The International Association of Women in Radio and Television – Philippines (IAWRT-Philippines) strongly condemns the latest wave of online harassment aimed at Filipino women journalists covering the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation into former President Rodrigo Duterte.
The most recent case involves GMA-7 reporter Mariz Umali, who was falsely accused of calling former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea “matanda” (old)—a statement she clarified was a misinterpretation. The backlash that ensued on social media was riddled with misogynistic and hateful remarks, including a disturbing post from Ramon Tulfo, brother of a sitting senator, that crossed all bounds of decency.
IAWRT-Philippines sees this as part of a growing pattern of digital harassment aimed at discrediting women journalists, particularly those reporting on controversial national issues like the ICC probe.
Veteran journalists Zen Hernandez and Gretchen Ho, both actively covering the same beat, have also been targets of coordinated online attacks—not for any breach of ethics, but for the simple act of doing their job and holding power to account.
Journalists, especially those covering high-stakes legal and political developments—are crucial to public understanding, transparency, and accountability. Attacks like these are not criticism; they are designed to intimidate, discredit, and silence.
“As women journalists, we stand together. This must stop. Harassment is not criticism; it is an attempt to silence. And a press under attack is a democracy at risk,” the group said in a statement.
IAWRT-Philippines underscores that in democratic societies, journalists must be free to work without fear or intimidation. The persistent targeting of women in media not only endangers individuals but also undermines press freedom, gender equality, and the public’s right to information.
The organization calls on media institutions, civil society, and the public to speak out against these attacks. It urges social media platforms to take accountability for the abuse that flourishes on their networks.
“Their voices matter. Their work matters. And their safety must be protected.”
IAWRT-Philippines stands in solidarity with all journalists, especially women, who continue to report with courage, integrity, and commitment in the face of growing hostility.
Edith Z Caduaya studied Bachelor of Science in Development Communication at the University of Southern Mindanao.
The chairperson of Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) Inc.
