Honoring press freedom

This week is especially significant for members of the press in Cebu as we celebrate the concept of freedom, drawing from the events that transpired during the Martial Law period. That era was marked by the silencing of the press, which enabled abuses to occur unchecked. Without a vigilant media landscape to report the news, those in power were free to act with impunity. It was a dark time, characterized by an atmosphere of fear and dominance. People had to choose sides, and dissent was dangerous.

It is essential for today’s media landscape to reflect on the hardships of that period. We now enjoy the benefits of the freedoms secured through those challenging times, celebrating with events such as a recent fun run and fellowship. These activities highlight that journalists, despite being portrayed as rivals by the public, are capable of forming friendships and working collaboratively. In reality, they join forces as watchdogs, ensuring that government and societal actions are scrutinized. Where there are more eyes that can observe how our society functions, the better accountability and transparency are maintained.

However, the media must also focus on contemporary challenges that threaten their profession. One such challenge is the proliferation of social media pages that present themselves as legitimate news sources. These platforms are primarily interested in generating engagement and monetizing their content, often at the expense of authenticity. Their stories frequently lack the rigorous filtering required by journalistic ethics and are presented in a sensationalized manner that attracts a wider audience but fails to uphold journalistic standards.

Another pressing issue is audience mistrust and news avoidance. Many people now prefer to listen to music or watch on-demand shows rather than consume news. They argue that such content provides comfort and escapism rather than the concern and engagement required to address societal issues. The preference for entertainment over news, highlights the intense competition within a saturated media market. The audience often prioritizes sensationalism. There is even the absence of the core tenets of journalism. It’s possible that the way stories are told no longer aligns with the preferences of today’s audiences, and the rise of artificial intelligence adds another layer of complexity, though the industry is still grappling with its full impact.

Despite these challenges, Cebu’s media continues to play a crucial role in documenting current events and shaping culture. We remain archivists of different eras in our society, contributing to the cultural narrative. However, maintaining public support is vital for preserving our credibility. While there are numerous news outlets available, our mission remains consistent: to serve as guardians of truth and to uphold the freedom of the press.

As we navigate the evolving media landscape, it is imperative to stay relevant and committed to our journalistic principles. The media in Cebu is dedicated to witnessing and reporting on the events that shape our community and our nation. Our goal is to continue safeguarding the freedom of the press and to ensure that this fundamental right remains protected and respected.