RP places lowly 139th in World Press Freedom rankings

Despite being considered as having virtually one of the “freest press” in the world, the Philippines recently plummeted to a dismal 139th place in the latest World Press Freedom index rankings released by the Paris-based Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

According to the RSF report, the country’s low ranking resulted from “increased killings, along with censorship, mainly by local officials.”

“President Gloria Arroyo showed intolerance towards the media, especially foreign, for exposing corruption,” the report added. “On Mindanao island, security forces were frequently involved in the murder or obstruction of journalists.”

The latest ranking is the lowest ever for the country, as it further dropped from an already mediocre state in 2004 (111th). It ranked 89th in 2002 (the first time the Index was created), and 118th in 2003.

Denmark topped the list as the freest country followed by six Scandinavian countries. North Korea is at the bottom at 167th even as local journalists “simply relay on government propaganda… and harassment, psychological pressure, intimidation and round-the-clock surveillance are routine.” ###

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