The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) has denounced columnist Ramon Tulfo’s vulgar remark against GMA News reporter Mariz Umali, calling it an example of harassment that should not be normalized.
Tulfo made the comment after false claims spread online that Umali had called former executive secretary Salvador Medialdea “matanda.” The journalist, who was in The Hague covering the developments on former president Rodrigo Duterte’s case at the International Criminal Court (ICC), denied the accusation, clarifying that she was misheard.
NUJP criticized Tulfo’s words as “vulgar, demeaning, and done without proper investigation.” The group warned that such remarks contribute to the increasing online harassment faced by journalists, particularly those reporting on sensitive political matters.
The organization also pointed out that while negative feedback is expected in the profession, harassment—especially from fellow journalists—should not be tolerated.
The International Association of Women in Radio and Television Philippines echoed NUJP’s concerns, highlighting a pattern of misogynistic attacks against female journalists covering Duterte’s ICC case.
“Harassment is not criticism; it is an attempt to silence,” the group stated, stressing that protecting journalists’ safety is vital for democracy.
