Empowering journalists through cybersecurity laws

By Antonette B. Eduardo

TO address the growing concerns surrounding cybersecurity and its implications on journalism, the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) Camarines Sur Chapter, Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Camarines Sur Chapter, Camarines Sur Police Provincial Office (CSPPO) Press Corps, Naga City Police Office (NCPO) Press Corps, and Mancave International organized a seminar on Cybersecurity Laws.

Held on November 20, 2024, the event aimed to educate journalists, police personnel, and legal experts from Camarines Sur about the relevance of cyber laws in journalism and to equip them with the knowledge and tools to navigate the legal challenges of the digital age.

The seminar featured notable speakers, including Atty. Jesme Donna Mendoza-Obumani, who delivered an in-depth lecture on “Understanding Cyber Libel and its Penalties.” Her presentation underscored the importance of journalists understanding the legal landscape surrounding their profession, especially as digital platforms continue to evolve.

Atty. Jessica Christine Gerez also shared her expertise, discussing the broader scope of cybersecurity laws, applicable jurisprudence, and their significance to media practitioners.

During his opening remarks, KBP Camarines Sur Chairman Ron Enon highlighted the organization’s commitment to the education and empowerment of journalists in the province. He emphasized that informed journalists are vital to a well-functioning democracy and stated that the seminar’s objective was to provide participants with the knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of cyber laws effectively.

The event also included an engaging Open Forum where participants posed questions to resource speakers and police officers from the Philippine National Police (PNP) Region 5 Anti-Cybercrime Unit.

The discussions clarified issues surrounding the enforcement of cybersecurity laws and provided practical strategies for journalists to safeguard themselves legally while conducting their work online.

The seminar served as a significant platform for raising awareness about cybersecurity and enhancing participants’ understanding of cyber laws in the context of journalism. Attendees left with a deeper knowledge of their rights and responsibilities in the digital space, underscoring the importance of continuous education in an increasingly interconnected world.

As cybersecurity threats persist in the media industry, initiatives like this seminar are vital in promoting resilience and competence among journalists, ensuring they can operate safely and effectively in the digital landscape.

BROADCAST journalists from Naga City and Camarines Sur celebrate a successful seminar on Cybersecurity Laws, empowering them with knowledge and tools for the digital age. ABE PHOTO