Broadcast ethics

One of the topics that I look forward to teaching in my Broadcast Principles and Practices class is broadcast ethics. I make sure my class has a copy of the Kapisanan ng Brodkaster ng Pilipinas Code. With the availability of time, I ask them to read the code from front to back, making sure they understand every clause in every section. The test to their understanding is in the form of a role play where they come up with responses to certain scenarios when faced with an ethical dilemma. I admire how students are able to relate the provisions to practical applications in a fun and creative way.

Unfortunately, not all members of the media are privileged to go into Journalism school. Not all media practitioners are also members of the KBP. However, one must understand that being on air comes with a certain type of responsibility. Estelle Ladrido explained how journalism authority is coupled with the sense of accountability to their audience. For the case of an FM news station in Cebu that allowed for an interview of a four-year old child regarding a sensitive crime, that was foul. It was irresponsible and uncalled for. In fact, it was not even instrumental to the story that was supposed to be told.

Apart from broadcast ethics, children are also bound by their rights. Their dignity should be respected at all times. This means that in media interviews, their privacy and confidentiality should be protected. They should not be asked to recall a gruesome event in their life that would scar their psyche altogether. As adult human beings, we should be aware of this beforehand. The interview that has now made rounds on the internet is a clear violation of both ethics and children's rights.

I commend the Cebu Federation of Beat Journalists for quickly condemning the issue, even if it involves personalities who have been in the industry for quite some time. It is fitting to call out these individuals who may have forgotten their mandate to the people. However, it is also unfair to generalize the whole industry which is trying its best to stay afloat despite multiple challenges. It is obvious that sensationalized stories sell, but journalists here are braver. They stand their ground on the values that they believe in.

The management of the radio station should look into their own operations. If they are doing this on a regular basis, they must overhaul the way they work. Being in the media is not a right but a privilege. It is granted to those deemed worthy to speak to a microphone and face the camera because they are responsible enough to take care of public opinion.

For this instance to not happen again, authorities must also tighten their security on victims of sensitive cases. The law that covers these subjects must be enforced. It’s such a shame that some capitalize on the trauma of others. I bet this incident will also bring trauma to them as they will continue to receive public backlash.