MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday called on journalists to uphold integrity as they seek innovative ways in reporting the truth with the advent of advanced technology.
During the 50th anniversary celebration of the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI) at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, Marcos said his administration stands with the media in bringing out the truth.
“Together, let us foster responsible journalism for we know that more than a democratic ideal, it is a necessity for an informed and empowered citizenry to make the proper, intelligent, well-informed decisions about their leaders, about their situation, about their condition,” Marcos said.
“As we mark this golden milestone, I urge you to keep pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a journalist. Innovate. Adapt. But never compromise your principles,” he added.
Marcos said his administration shares the same aspiration with the media in fighting false information, considering that social media platforms have become “the new battlegrounds” where anonymous troll farms tend to manipulate public opinion.
He added that “the relentless pressures of the digital age have added layers of complexity in ensuring press freedom.”
“So, I call on every Filipino: Do not just fight. Lead the change. Verify, question, [and] hold the line. We have a duty to protect the sanctity of facts, not just as citizens but as guardians of our shared reality,” Marcos said.
Marcos said the government has launched a media and information literacy campaign to equip the public, especially the youth, with skills to evaluate information and fight misinformation and disinformation.
“Be assured that we are doubling down on our commitment to protect our journalists and to uphold press freedom. We stand with you hand in hand in this fight,” Marcos said.
“This administration is here to support you in shaping our narrative as a people not just for today’s headline but for the history that we are yet to create. Let us continue to tell the stories that truly matter. Let us keep that light steady, no matter how fierce the storm,” he added.
Marcos lauded the PAPI for transforming into a “formidable organization that has been the vigilant vanguards of our communities and the tireless defenders of press freedom.”
PAPI was founded in 1974, with a mission to promote the welfare of local newspapers, defend press freedom and journalists, and uphold the dignity of journalism and publishing in the Philippines.
To date, PAPI is the largest media organization in the country, consisting of about 400 community newspapers and several national publications as regular members.
It also includes practicing community journalists from various media outlets as associate members. Its publications have a weekly print circulation exceeding 200,000 copies.
Community papers often surpass publications in Metro Manila in readership because their content is accessed by regional broadcasters, ensuring they reach areas typically underserved by larger media outlets. (PNA)