Kalayaan Hall, Malacañan Palace
August 2, 2024
“This Administration recognizes the invaluable role of a free press and a robust media in ensuring a vibrant and functioning Philippine democracy,” said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. after administering the oath of office to the Association of Philippine Journalists (APJ) – Samahang Plaridel Foundation Inc. during a ceremony at the Kalayaan Hall in Malacañan Palace.
In his message, the President commended the Association for its efforts to inform Filipinos about news and current events which promote a healthy, enlightened and meaningful public discourse on matters of national importance.
“You likewise help in holding public officers, including myself, accountable for our actions — recognizing our work when we do our jobs well, and pointing out our shortcomings whenever we don’t measure up to our sworn duties,” he continued.
He highlighted that Samahang Plaridel plays a vital role in empowering the nation to distinguish between truth and fiction, as well as facts and blatant lies, in this era of unregulated social media, fake news and artificial intelligence (AI).
“Let your commitment to responsible, ethical and fair reporting be your guide in inspiring your colleagues and aspiring journalists to follow your footsteps in the Fourth Estate… May you also find inspiration and guidance in the life and works of Plaridel or Marcelo H. Del Pilar — the Father of Philippine Journalism — by practicing courageous, compassionate and committed journalism,” he stated.
Furthermore, the Chief Executive reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to protecting the safety and well-being of media workers and practitioners through the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS), emphasizing that the government will foster an environment where journalists can continue to freely practice their profession in a manner that is fruitful, rewarding and meaningful.
“Let us continue to work together in nurturing a truly free and safe environment for all media personnel toward a Bagong Pilipinas that we dream of in the years ahead,” President Marcos Jr. ended in his message.
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