FIGHTING FAKE NEWS. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. administers the oath of office to the Board of Trustees of the Association of Philippine Journalists - Samahang Plaridel Foundation Inc. at the Kalayaan Hall of Malacañan Palace in Manila on Friday (Aug. 2, 2024). In his speech, Marcos called on media workers to help his administration in fighting fake news. (Screenshot from Radio Television Malacañang)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday called on Philippine media to help his administration in combatting fake news.
Marcos made the call during the oath-taking of the Board of Trustees of the Association of Philippine Journalists (APJ) - Samahang Plaridel Foundation Inc. at the Kalayaan Hall of Malacañan Palace in Manila.
“In this time of unregulated social media, of fake news, [and] artificial intelligence, now more than ever, we need your help in empowering our people to distinguish the truth from fiction, and facts from blatant lies,” Marcos said.
Marcos acknowledged the media’s crucial role in keeping the public informed of important news and current events, as well as in ensuring a “healthy, and enlightened, meaningful” discourse on relevant issues.
Marcos hoped that journalists would continue committing themselves to “responsible, ethical, and fair reporting."
“This administration recognizes the invaluable role of a free press and a robust media in ensuring a vibrant and functioning Philippine democracy,” he said.
“You likewise help in holding public officers, including myself, accountable for our actions -- recognizing our work when we do well, and pointing out shortcomings whenever our work does not measure up to our sworn duties,” Marcos added.
Marcos encouraged all media workers to practice “courageous, compassionate, and committed journalism," assuring them of his administration’s resolve in creating a “truly free and safe environment for all media personnel” under a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines).
He said the government is committed to fostering an environment “where members of the media can continue to freely practice their profession in a manner that is fruitful, rewarding, and meaningful.”
“Be assured of this administration’s support in ensuring the safety and welfare of all media workers and practitioners through the Presidential Task Force on Media Security,” Marcos said.
He also called on the APJ-Samahang Plaridel Foundation to continue holding activities that promote rapport within the organization and to expand its reach and endeavors.
Founded by veteran journalists in 2003, the APJ-Samahang Plaridel Foundation is an association of media practitioners and communications specialists.
The association upholds the fundamental freedom of the press, promote the dignity of the journalism profession, and foster camaraderie, cooperation and understanding among journalists.
It also works toward advancing the profession by advocating Marcelo H. del Pilar's principles of truth, fairness and impartiality. (PNA)
