THE National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) is mourning the passing of Julie Alipala, a respected journalist, colleague, and advocate for press freedom.
Alipala died past midnight on Thursday, April 3, in Zamboanga City after battling cancer, her family said. She was 58.
Alipala’s last post on her Facebook page was a meme card stating: “God, I have no idea where you are taking me, but I trust you,” with her caption simply saying “Amen.”
Alipala, a longtime reporter for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, covered Zamboanga, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi, frequently reporting on conflict and its impact on local communities.
She was known for her fearless reporting, often taking on complex stories despite risks to her safety both online and offline.
In 2018, Alipala faced online harassment following her coverage of the deaths of seven farmers in Sulu, who were accused of being Abu Sayyaf members but whom relatives claimed were simply out to pick fruits.
Beyond her reporting, Alipala made significant contributions to journalists’ welfare and safety.
She conducted numerous training sessions and workshops nationwide, mentoring fellow journalists and advocating for their protection.
The NUJP fondly remembers its former director and vows to continue her work in defending press freedom and journalists’ rights in her honor.
