Senators nix news blackout during hostage situations

At least three senators on Wednesday thumbed down the idea of imposing a news blackout during hostage-taking situations. Senator Loren Legarda described as "unnecessary" Cebu Rep. Luis Quisumbing's House Bill No. 2737, which seeks to impose a news blackout during hostage-takings and other similar situations. "I don't think a law is necessary," said Legarda, adding that passing and enacting legislation takes years. Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile suggested that the authorities should just lay down some ground rules for the media during such incidents. "Hindi na kailangan yun (You don't need that), all you have to do is to put a cordon where the media can stay at a distance," he said in a separate interview. He added that coverage should be allowed as long as it does not hamper police operations. "Pabayaan na natin yun (We should let that pass)," he said. Senator Ramon Bong Revilla Jr., for his part, said if a news blackout is really needed, the authorities can just coordinate with the media outfits. "Dapat mag-usap ang media at ang authorities (The media and authorities should talk it out)," he said. Quisumbing said the primary intention of his proposed legislation is to protect the lives of policemen and soldiers in such situations. - Kimberly Jane Tan/KBK, GMANews.TV