Inquirer Founding Chair Eugenia Apostol, Champion of Press Freedom, Dies at 100

Eugenia Duran Apostol, founding chair of the Philippine Daily Inquirer (PDI), passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, Sept. 13. She was 100 years old. Apostol leaves behind a legacy in journalism defined by the pursuit of truth and justice, and the preservation of press freedom and democracy. In her view, this meant helping to dismantle a dictatorship. She co-founded the PDI in 1985, transforming it into a symbol of independent journalism in the Philippines. Under her leadership, the newspaper played a crucial role in holding power accountable, exposing corruption, and advocating for citizens' rights. Notably, she stood against the suppression of press freedom during the dictatorship of former President Ferdinand Marcos, making the PDI a vital source of information for the public seeking truth. Her contributions were recognized not only within the Philippines but also internationally. Her dedication to press freedom and democracy served as an inspiration to many journalists and activists. Apostol's passing is a significant loss to the Philippine media landscape, and the spirit of journalism she embodied is expected to endure.