Marcos: Journalists’ work more crucial amid fake news

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. affirmed the role of journalists in the country, calling their words a potent defense against fake news.

“As the fourth pillar of our democracy, their words serve as our strongest defense against misinformation and fake news. Now, more than ever, their commitment to their work is crucial,” the chief executive said in his “World Press Freedom Day” message posted on X (formerly Twitter). 

Marcos also praised journalists for their “courage in conveying unbiased reports” and “being stalwarts of truth and transparency.” 

Meanwhile, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) declared the Marcos administration’s commitment to providing media practitioners with a safe environment.

“The PBBM administration remains steadfast in its endeavor to foster an environment where journalists can practice their profession free from fear of threats, reprisals, and violence,” the PCO statement said.

According to the latest data by the Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR) and the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, there have been 135 incidents of attacks and threats against media workers since Marcos took the presidency from July 1, 2022 to April 30 this year. 

The report also noted the deaths of three radio broadcasters: Rey Blanco, Percy Lapid, and Cresencio Bundoquin. —Vince Angelo Ferreras/LDF, GMA Integrated News