PASAY CITY – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the importance of journalistic integrity and innovation in the face of advancing technology during his speech at the 50th anniversary of the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI) held at the Philippine International Convention Center.
According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos expressed his administration’s support for the media’s role in truth-telling and combating misinformation. “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 stated.
During his address, Marcos highlighted the challenges posed by the digital age, particularly the rise of social media as platforms where misinformation can proliferate. He noted that these new battlegrounds are often marred by anonymous entities and troll farms that manipulate public opinion. “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.
The president also called on Filipinos to actively engage in verifying facts and maintaining journalistic standards. “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 emphasized.
In addition to advocating for responsible journalism, Marcos announced that his administration has initiated a media and information literacy campaign aimed at equipping the public, especially the youth, with the skills needed to critically evaluate information and combat both misinformation and disinformation.
Marcos reaffirmed his commitment to press freedom and the protection of journalists in the Philippines. “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,” he assured.
In his closing remarks, Marcos praised PAPI for its role as a formidable organization that has served as a defender of press freedom and a promoter of the welfare of local newspapers and journalists since its founding in 1974. Today, PAPI remains the largest media organization in the country, with about 400 community newspapers and several national publications among its members, and a weekly print circulation exceeding 200,000 copies.