Keeping the Flame of Freedom Alive: The Case Study of Percy Lapid
By Dermiel R. Robles
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – In a poignant forum held at Silliman University in Dumaguete City, Philippines, the memory of veteran journalist Percy Lapid Mabasa was honored, and his courageous commitment to truth-telling was celebrated. Percy, the third journalist to be tragically killed in the line of duty in 2022, according to UNESCO, and the second during the presidency of Bong-bong Marcos, as reported by the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP), left a void in the field of journalism that continues to be felt.
Photos by Levi Shane Montano
The event, titled "Keeping the Flame of Freedom: The Case Study of Percy Lapid," commenced with a heartfelt message from Roy Mabasa, Percy's younger brother. Roy shared the deep impact of losing a loved one who was not just a brother but also a beloved family member. "Iba pala ang pakiramdam kapag ang namatay ay kapatid mo na, or kasambahay o kasama sa pamilya," he reflected, highlighting the unique pain of losing someone so intimately connected.
Percy Lapid Mabasa, renowned for his fearless reporting, was remembered as a dedicated journalist, broadcaster, and radio commentator who consistently championed transparency and honesty in his work. His radio program, "Lapid Fire," became a platform where he fearlessly exposed cases of corruption and upheld the principles of ethical journalism.
Roy Mabasa reminisced about his brother's unwavering commitment to the truth. "Percy was a veteran journalist, a broadcaster, and a radio commentator. He was and always will be my inspiration. He was not afraid to tell the truth," Roy shared with pride. Percy's bravery in confronting corruption and standing up for the voiceless earned him the admiration and respect of many.
Tragically, Percy's life was cut short on the night of October 3 the previous year when he was gunned down by two assailants on a motorcycle at his own home. Despite this devastating loss, Percy's legacy lives on through the numerous followers and listeners who continue to express their longing for his voice on the airwaves.
"Ang dami-dami niyang taga-pakinig na hanggang ngayon ay nagte-text sa akin, nangungulila, nagpapahayag ng kanilang praises of sympathy at yung kanilang expression na matapang si Percy," Roy revealed, emphasizing the enduring impact of Percy's work on those who admired his bravery and dedication to journalism.
The forum was not just an opportunity for Percy's family to remember him but also a platform to discuss the critical issue of press freedom in the Philippines. Joining Roy Mabasa as a guest speaker was Ellen Tordesillas, a co-founder of VERA Files and a prominent advocate for media freedom. Her presence underscored the importance of protecting journalists and ensuring that their voices are not silenced in the pursuit of truth.
Photos by Levi Shane Montano
As the world remembers Percy Lapid Mabasa, this forum served as a reminder of the sacrifices journalists make to uphold the principles of democracy and accountability. Percy's legacy will continue to inspire a new generation of journalists to fearlessly seek the truth and keep the flame of freedom burning bright.
The successful organization of the forum, "Keeping the Flame of Freedom: The Case Study of Percy Lapid," was made possible through the dedicated efforts of People’s Media Advocacy Asia – Center for People’s Media (PMAA-CPM). Under the direct supervision of Veronica Uy-Vitug, PMAA President, the organization played a pivotal role in ensuring that Percy Lapid Mabasa's legacy was appropriately honored and the discussion on press freedom was facilitated. The event also received valuable support from the Czech embassy in the Philippines, highlighting the international significance of upholding press freedom and remembering journalists who have paid the ultimate price for their dedication to the truth.
Photos by Levi Shane Montano
Alwyn Alburo, a producer at GMA7, assumed the dual role of forum moderator and project director, ensuring the smooth flow of discussions and the successful execution of the project. His expertise in media production and journalism added a professional touch to the event.
The forum attracted an engaged audience, including campus journalists from Silliman University and Negros Oriental State University. Their participation underscored the importance of fostering a new generation of journalists who are committed to upholding the principles of truth, transparency, and press freedom, much like Percy Lapid Mabasa did throughout his career. Through the collaborative efforts of these individuals and organizations, the forum not only honored Percy's memory but also advanced the crucial conversation about the role of journalism in preserving democracy and the importance of protecting the rights of journalists to report fearlessly and without censorship. PMAA