Keep principles intact, Rama tells journalists

CEBU, Philippines – As media practitioners celebrate press freedom this week, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama called on local journalists to never let go of their principles in the practice of the profession.

Rama, who comes from a family of journalists, said the influence of media in awakening the minds of the public and as watchdog of government remains significant.

To maintain credibility, Rama said the press must always strive for professionalism and responsibility.

“The power of the mouth and the power of the pen will always be utilized for building a country or building a city. [The media’s influence] will be a means for character transformation towards better citizenship. A nation being dealt with values will transcend professionalism,” the mayor said.

“On behalf of the city government, I would like to commend and appreciate the media,” he told reporters in a teleconference yesterday.

Rama flew to Aklan province in Western Visayas for an official business.

He said he hopes that Filipinos will not forget the dark days of Martial Law.

“I wish when we celebrate September 21 (yesterday), the day will always be the continuing remembrance to the past, bringing lessons… as much as possible to make a stand against suppression,” he said.

At the Capitol, Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III said he will oppose any move that would bring back Martial Law.

“We don’t want Martial Law. It’s an anathema to end the democracy. We are really against anything nga mabalik ang martial law. I know ang leaders nato ron and everybody do not want Martial Law,” he told reporters.

It was on September 21, 1972 when late President Ferdinand Marcos, through Proclamation 1081, placed the Philippines under military control. The emergency rule also suspended the civil rights and imposed military authority all over the country.

Article VII of the 1987 Philippine Constitution provides that the President will be the Commander-in-Chief of all armed forces of the country. Whenever it becomes necessary, he may call out such armed forces “to prevent or suppress lawless violence, invasion or rebellion.”

“In case of invasion or rebellion, when the public safety requires it, he may, for a period not exceeding sixty days, suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus or place the Philippines or any part thereof under martial law,” the Constitution stated. –/JMO (FREEMAN)