The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) condemned a sexual harassment incident involving a Bacolod-based broadcast anchor who allegedly made an inappropriate rape joke toward a female reporter during an on-air exchange.
In a statement released on May 20, 2026, NUJP said the incident occurred while the reporter was covering a police case involving a suspect in a child and women abuse complaint.
The union said the anchor responded by making repeated remarks suggesting he wanted to be jailed and allegedly asked the reporter on air if he could rape her so he would end up in prison.
NUJP described the remarks as unacceptable and said such behavior has no place in journalism or any professional workplace.
The union also raised concern over what it described as an apology issued by the anchor, noting that it did not directly address the harassment directed at the female reporter.
While acknowledging the existence of laws against sexual harassment and local safe space ordinances, NUJP said misogyny and macho culture continue to persist in media organizations.
It added that many newsrooms still lack clear policies and enforcement mechanisms to address workplace harassment.
NUJP said incidents of sexual harassment in the media industry remain underreported due to fears of job loss, lack of support, victim-blaming, and social stigma.
The union also expressed support for two GMA Network employees who recently filed complaints against a fellow reporter over alleged acts of lasciviousness and gender-based sexual harassment.
NUJP called on media organizations to adopt a zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment and to establish stronger workplace safeguards to protect journalists and media workers.
It urged newsroom managers and colleagues to promote respect, equality, and inclusivity, emphasizing the need to create safe working environments, especially for women in media.
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