Media watchdog CMFR to cease operations on Sept. 30
The nonprofit corporation, Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility, is ending its operations after 37 years.
The Philippine media watchdog announced its closure in a Facebook post on Sept. 18.
"CMFR regrets to announce that it is closing its operations, effective September 30, 2026. The decision ends 37 years of media development work," it wrote.
It added that its work has been sustained by financial support from both Philippine and international sources, but noted that "multiple factors have affected the funding environment, making it difficult for CMFR to secure the necessary funds for its operations."
It extended its gratitude to its past and present staff, journalists and news organizations in the Philippines and abroad, embassies in Manila, schools and students, and civil society organizations for recognizing the value of its work and supporting its efforts.
"We are truly grateful. Please accept our best wishes," it concluded.
Followers, media personalities, and media organizations lamented its impending closure. The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines said that CMFR's closure "is a profound blow to Philippine journalism."
"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," it wrote in its Sept. 18 statement.
It then described its work as "one of the country’s foremost institutions dedicated to defending press freedom and advancing responsible journalism and journalistic excellence."
"CMFR’s legacy will endure, and its loss will be felt for a long time to come. We hope that the spirit of CMFR’s work will live on in the journalists, news organizations and institutions it has empowered through the years," it concluded.
Established in 1989, CMFR has advocated for press freedom, responsible journalism, and journalistic excellence. Led by Melinda Quintos de Jesus, it has reported on the attacks and threats against journalists and photojournalists across the Philippines.
It is accredited by the Philippine Council for NGO Certification as a donee institution.
