Marcos to broadcasters: Ensure integrity, credibility of information

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos yesterday called on the country’s broadcasters to bring a measure of stability and objectivity at a time where people are exposed to “fake news” because of advancements in technology.

Speaking during the 50th anniversary of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) in Makati, Marcos said the group’s role remains crucial in the face of newer and pressing challenges, including ensuring the integrity and credibility of information.

“We started with mistaken information, then it became more active, disinformation, and misinformation and now, out-and-out, fake news. These are among the negative effects of technological advancement and the social media age. However, it is something that is to be expected considering how powerful the tool social media has become,” the President said.

“And like any powerful tool, it cuts both ways. And it is up once again to the KBP to bring a measure of stability, a measure of objectivity, to help our people discern what is the real information and what is propaganda,” he added.

Marcos said the fourth estate or the media stands as “the stalwart partner of conscientious” and peace-loving citizenry and the “legitimate and equally conscientious” government.

He urged the KBP to take the lead in addressing challenges and foster public discussion, truth and credibility and the rule of law, especially in the practice of broadcasting, news reporting and information-dissemination.

“Animated by the raison d’etre of truthful and accurate reporting of events and issues of public interest and importance, the press and broadcast media are instrumental not only in informing the citizenry, but also in shaping public opinion and even triggering social mobilization and change,” the Chief Executive said.

Therefore, I exhort the KBP to continue your very important work with our people and with the government, addressing and remedying the issues and challenges that we face.”

Marcos assured the broadcasters that the government remains committed to ensuring transparency and good governance, freedom of expression and of the press and the protection of media practitioners and their rights in the practice of their profession. He also vowed to undertake measures to improve the Philippines’ ranking in the World Press Freedom Index.

“We are aware that currently the Philippines is at 147th place in the World Press Freedom Index. As a testament to our oneness with the international community, we shall work hard, hand in hand with you to improve that present condition, and climb our way up in those rankings,” hesaid said.

The KBP is a non-government, non-profit organization of broadcast media in the Philippines. The group seeks to promote an independent and free broadcast media, responsible broadcasting, enhanced public service by broadcasters and the advancement of innovation in broadcasting.