THE Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) have signed a memorandum of agreement to protect media workers who are called as witnesses in narcotics legal proceedings.
“These measures are designed to shield them from potential retaliation by accused drug offenders — a risk distinct from that faced by ordinary witnesses, who may simply be called upon to testify. Insulating witnesses fulfill a specialized function: they observe and certify the proper conduct of specific law enforcement procedures during drug operations and related proceedings,” PTFOMS chief Jose Torres Jr. said.
Under the agreement, both agencies will implement gender-responsive protection measures for media workers acting as insulating witnesses, as provided for under the law.
As the primary agency mandated to enforce the country’s anti-illegal drug laws under Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, the PDEA brings extensive operational expertise to the collaboration, Torres said.
Beyond investigative support, the agreement provides for protective custody, financial and material assistance, and access to psychosocial and mental health services for affected media workers, Torres added.