Differences don’t make government, media adversaries, says Marcos

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. told the members of the press that differences of opinion with government officials do not make them adversaries.

Marcos made the remark during the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected officers of the Malacañang Media Group at the President’s Hall in Malacañang.

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“The relationship between those of us who are holding office and who are administrators and referred to as leaders of the country have a very important part to play, and the press has its own play,” Marcos said.

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“The press has its own role to play in any democracy,” he repeated.

“And, of course, we do not always agree on certain things, but that does not make us adversaries,” the president pointed out.

“I always see it as partnership between both the media practitioners and those of us who are holding office. Because after all, we all serve the public,” he continued.

Marcos said the relationship between the government and the media should remain grounded in mutual respect and open dialogue, which he described as essential to fostering a productive and constructive partnership.

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He also renewed his commitment to the safety of reporters, photojournalists and cameramen so they can perform their duties without fear of intimidation or violence.

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“The Presidential Task Force on Media Security has conducted safety and security workshops, has strengthened coordination with other government offices to protect media practitioners,” he said.

“It has also established media monitoring centers for the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections to help monitor journalists deployed in the field,” he added.

The government has also implemented Oplan Kontra Fake News and other measures aimed at addressing disinformation while safeguarding freedom of expression.

Marcos said accurate and reliable information is crucial, making the role of the press more important than ever.

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“Whether through reports, photographs, videos, your work helps Filipinos to understand the events, and to know how these events affect their lives and the decisions that they will have to make for themselves, in light of the context that you make and offer to the public,” he said. /apl