Joe Pavia writes 30

The Philippine journalism community mourns the passing of one of its pillars, veteran journalist and press freedom advocate Jose “Joe” Pavia.

Mr. Pavia, former editor of the Philippines Herald and editor-in-chief of the community newspaper Mabuhay, was also the Executive Director of the Philippine Press Institute. Joe, as he was fondly called by everyone, was an active member of the Freedom Fund for Filipino Journalists (FFFJ) and a tireless campaigner against media killings in the country.

In fact, Joe was instrumental in the formation of the FFFJ’s Quick Response Team, which rushed to far-flung places in the country in support of embattled journalists. Joe travelled all over the country to lend his support to fellow community journalists despite his age and failing health.

In a statement, the Southeast Asian Press Alliance said that Joe will be sorely missed. “Mr. Pavia’s legacy will continue to sustain our efforts for a better media environment and more free-flow of information not only in the Philippines but in Southeast Asia as well,” the SEAPA statement said.

Joe passed away on April 18 after a long bout with lung cancer. He was 72.