Marcos to journalists: We need you to discern truths from lies

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Friday said journalists are much needed in the age of fake news and artificial intelligence to help the Filipino public discern the truth from falsehoods.

"In this time of unregulated social media, of fake news, [and] artificial intelligence, now more than ever, we need your help in empowering our people to distinguish the truth from fiction, and facts from blatant lies," said Marcos during the oathtaking of the board of trustees of the Association of Philippine Journalists-Samahang Plaridel Foundation Inc.

The President also recognized the role of journalists in "ensuring that there is a healthy, and enlightened, meaningful discourse on matters of public importance."

"You likewise help in holding public officers, including myself, accountable for our actions—recognizing our work when we do well, and pointing out shortcomings whenever our work does not measure up to our sworn duties," he added.

Further, Marcos reiterated that his administration will provide a safe environment for all media practitioners.

"We will also foster an environment where members of the media can continue to freely practice their profession in a manner that is fruitful, rewarding, and meaningful," he said.

The President added, "Let us continue to work together in nurturing a truly free and safe environment for all media personnel toward the Bagong Pilipinas that we dream of in the years ahead."

Last May, the Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMRF) and the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) reported that there have been 135 incidents of attacks and threats against media workers since Marcos took the presidency on July 1, 2022 until April 30 this year.

The report also noted the deaths of three radio broadcasters during this period: Rey Blanco, Percy Lapid, and Cresenciano Bundoquin.

The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) earlier assured that media-related killings during the current administration would be addressed immediately.

On World Press Freedom Day, Malacañang's Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said the Marcos administration was committed to providing media practitioners with a safe environment.

This year, the Philippines remains a "dangerous place" for journalists, slipping further to 134th place out of 180 countries ranked in the latest World Press Freedom Index by the Paris-based Reporters Without Borders (RSF). — VDV, GMA Integrated News