Tactless media reports continue to reduce human life

JEERS TO some print and online media for treating a human tragedy as mere spectacle. Media failed to report suicide as a public health issue, and ignored guidelines for coverage designed to promote “help-seeking” and prevent its “contagion” among the vulnerable. 

Reports on a suicide on April 21 cited police sources. After allegedly killing his wife, the man jumped from the fifth floor of a building. He was rushed to the Metropolitan Hospital in the Sta. Cruz district in Manila and was declared dead on arrival. 

Manila Standard was most offensive as it cheered the timing of its photographer with a caption that was altogether oblivious of the tragic moment the camera captured: “There is nothing like being at the right place at the right time.” The newspaper’s April 21 issue published on page 4 a clear full color photo of the victim as he jumped. The treatment violated the dignity of the person and diminished the profound significance of a terrible death. 

To respect the privacy of both the victim and family, reports should exclude personal information, including the location or address. Some news reports identified the victim by his name, and some accounts showed clear pictures large enough to make the subject recognizable. 

Death is always sad but the taking of one’s life raises all kinds of questions without satisfying answers. A journalist cannot report it simply as an event or incident, as it is usually rooted in more complex human situations. The act contradicts the natural desire to live. Journalists should avoid hyping up its inherent sensationalism. Such reports could trigger “copycat” behavior among those experiencing crisis. 

Advocate groups such as Save suggest using straightforward language, avoiding words that suggest judgment or add stigma and shame the bereaved. 

The Philippine Star published three graphic images, giving the news visual impact as well as using proscribed language – “committed suicide.” Online reports of The Manila Times and Daily Tribune omitted photos, but mentioned the location of the incident. Tribune on print and online included the victim’s address, and implied that the man jumped because of his alleged depression and unemployment.

The four publications failed to include references and information that could help the public understand suicide as a public health issue, a phenomenon that has become quite sadly more commonplace given the experience of the pandemic. 

Health advocates working with media groups have all campaigned for more humane coverage, providing guidelines. Newsrooms should refer to these to avoid the negative impact of insensitive and tone-deaf reporting. 

Newsrooms must uphold the value of humaneness, producing reports that can help reduce shame and stigma. Journalistic efforts should focus not on the isolated incidents but suicide as a growing problem in society, alerting the public about symptoms of those at risk. More important, news should make known available help and counseling, connecting those in need to professional services that can save lives. 

---

Help is available.

HOPELINE Philippines is a flagship program of Natasha Goulbourn Foundation which provides 24/7, free, compassionate and confidential support by phone and online chat. You may contact them at 0917 558- 4673 (Globe and TM) and 0918 873 4673 (Smart).