CMFR Ceases Operations After 37 Years, Journalists Lament Loss of Media Watchdog

The Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR), a cornerstone of media advocacy in the Philippines for 37 years, is set to cease operations on September 30. This impending closure has prompted widespread expressions of sadness and concern from journalists and media organizations across the country, lamenting the loss of a vital watchdog for the press. The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) expressed regret over the CMFR's decision. "Its work has helped the press hold power to account while also reminding journalists that the freedom we exercise carries with it a responsibility to the public," the NUJP stated. The union added, "The loss of a watchdog that watches over the watchdogs is a profound blow to Philippine journalism, leaving a void in an industry that needs accountability. At a time when the press faces mounting pressures from various interests, the absence of CMFR's independent voice will be deeply felt." Numerous journalists have also shared their sorrow, with many lauding the contributions of CMFR founder Melinda Quintos de Jesus. Joe Torres, Executive Director of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security and former editor-in-chief of GMA News Online, extended his gratitude, noting, "The organization has been a great help in the formation of many journalists of my time. Maraming salamat, CMFR, Ma'am Melinda, at sa lahat na mga kaibigan at nakasama sa Center." Roby Alampay, former editor-in-chief of Business World and now chief of PLDT's communications division, also praised the watchdog, saying, "Your legacy and the impact of Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility will live on. We are all grateful — and now collectively responsible to ensure that it be so." Jonathan de Santos, NUJP Chair and deputy editor at ABS-CBN, thanked CMFR for its decades of service, calling it "my informal journ school whose standards I aspire to and sometimes met." Sports journalist Rey Joble recounted how CMFR stood by him during a plagiarism issue 15 years ago, calling it a "life-changing moment." TV5 journalist Ed Lingao succinctly marked the occasion with the industry term "CMFR writes -30-." Meanwhile, the In Defense of Human Rights and Dignity Movement (iDefend) expressed sadness, highlighting CMFR's role in upholding truth during former president Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs. "Ang inyong pagtindig sa karapatang pantao at demokrasya ay malaking kontribusyon sa pagpapanagot sa nagdaang administrasyon. Mula sa hanay ng iDefend, pagpupugay at pasasalamat CMFR!" the group stated, acknowledging its significant contribution to holding the previous administration accountable. The closure of CMFR underscores growing concerns about freedom of the press and media independence in the Philippines, particularly as the institution faces increasing pressures. The absence of such an independent body raises questions about how accountability and ethical standards within the media landscape will be maintained.