President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, in his World Press Freedom Day message on May 3, assured the public of the current administration’s “commitment in promoting press freedom,” and affirmed that the press must be protected from threat and intimidation.
Saying that press freedom is an “indispensable requirement for vibrant democracy,” the President also called for the mass media to “uphold fairness and transparency” while “making a positive impact” on the public amid the development of communication systems.
“Let me assure everyone that this administration will remain committed in promoting press freedom as a vital component and indicator of progress anywhere in the world,” he said in a written statement.
“Let us continue to use the power of communication for our collective efforts in nation-building and ensure the integrity and safety of the press.”
In a separate message, Communications Secretary and Presidential Task Force on Media Security co-chair Martin Andanar honored the “heroism, commitment, and bravery of all journalists and media workers” and highlighted the role of the free press during the current pandemic.
“Its presence plays a key role in preventing people from being unknowing of essential and life-saving information and government programs and services, which the situation we are all in currently calls for,” Andanar said.
He added that this has also helped boost public awareness of the government’s policies and programs regarding the COVID-19 response and the pandemic’s impact on the people.
“The untiring reportage and coverage provided by the press on important matters have helped keep us updated of the facts and the news,” he noted. “The rights and freedom of the press have always been important to this administration as it benefits every Filipino.”
The communications chief also called for the eradication of biased information, disinformation, and fake news or deceptive content which damages “the trust and relationship between the government and the people.” – OP, PCOO/AG/jlo
