THE National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP), with support from the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ Asia Pacific), officially launched NUJP’s feasibility study on establishing a guild for Filipino freelance journalists last Saturday.
NUJP conducted a feasibility study from July to September 2021 and surveyed various freelance journalists from different subfields.
Based on the findings of the study, Filipino freelancers (or “gig-workers) still do not get enough compensation and protection due to their independent status. The majority of those surveyed earn less than P15,000 a month. Most do not have written contracts.
The very nature of their job makes them vulnerable to various labor violations, just as much as Filipino workers in different industries.
Unfortunately, freelancers in the media industry remain scattered, while freelancers’ organizations in non-journalistic fields already exist.
In an effort to continue supporting freelancers, NUJP held a planning session to kickstart the creation of the Guild.
“Incremental reforms are achieved through the collective efforts from the community,” said Ronalyn Olea, NUJP Secretary General.
NUJP also hopes that the Guild will be able to focus on addressing issues central to the experiences of freelance journalists and become a solid community that will support our freelance colleagues. (NUJP)
