Bulatlat Long-Listed for One World Media Press Freedom Award

BULATLAT, AN ALTERNATIVE media outfit, has been long-listed for the 2025 One World Media Awards under the Press Freedom Award category, marking another milestone in its continued pursuit of journalism in the face of adversity.

On April 5, Bulatlat expressed that it was honored to be long-listed in the said award, the only Philippine-based newsroom to be included this year. One World Media annually recognizes outstanding journalism and documentary storytelling from the Global South. 

“This means a lot to us as we persevere in doing journalism for the people amid state-sponsored attacks,” Bulatlat said.

Other organizations long-listed in the Press Freedom Award category include Addis Standard, Afghanistan International TV, Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ), Epicentro TV, Foundation for Investigative Journalism and Social Justice, People’s Archive of Rural India, Seen.TV / Seen.Palestine, SIRAJ — Syrian Investigative Reporting for Accountability Journalism, and The Afghan Times. The long list, which includes Bulatlat, recognizes the group of news outlets for their resilience, impact, and unwavering dedication to press freedom in environments challenged by censorship, violence, or repression.

The longlist announcement comes as Bulatlat continues its legal battle against a website blocking order issued by the Philippine government in June 2022. The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), acting on the recommendation of the National Security Council, ordered the blocking of 27 websites, including those of media organizations and progressive groups, citing alleged links to terrorist groups.

Bulatlat successfully challenged the order in court, allowing access to its website to be restored. However, the websites of the 26 other groups remain censored, with Bulatlat actively pushing for the nullification of the broader order.

The One World Media Awards received 559 entries from over 100 countries for its 2025 edition. The Press Freedom Award specifically recognizes independent media outlets that demonstrate resilience and impact in countries where freedom of the press is under threat.

For Bulatlat, the recognition is a testament to its unwavering commitment to report stories that matter, especially in a political climate where dissent and critical journalism face increasing suppression.

In 2022, Bulatlat received the CMFR Award of Distinction during the Jaime V. Ongpin Journalism Seminar. The final nominees and winners will be announced later this year. For the full list of longlisted entries, visit: One World Media Longlist 2025