PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday congratulated the new officers of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting media workers and strengthening democracy.
Speaking during the oathtaking ceremony of the KBP Board of Trustees and Standards Authority, the President highlighted the important role of broadcast media in promoting truth, responsible reporting, and public service.
“Allow me to congratulate the new Board of Trustees and Standards Authority of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas,” the President said.
“The Philippines remains one of the most dangerous places for journalists,” President Marcos said, citing the need to address threats and violence against media practitioners.
The President recognized the vital role of journalists in informing the public, while noting the risks they face, including safety threats and pressures in the line of duty.
“Hindi madaling magtanong, mag-ulat, at maglahad ng katotohanan—lalo na kung may panganib na kaakibat ito,” the President said. “This Administration has made it clear that the safety and welfare of our journalists must be protected at all times.”
To strengthen protection, the Presidential Task Force on Media Security recently signed an agreement with the National Bureau of Investigation to intensify efforts against threats to media workers. It also partnered with the Public Attorney’s Office to provide legal assistance.
“Tinitiyak natin na sa bawat banta, may gobyernong handang magtanggol sa inyo,” the President said.
President Marcos also urged media groups to help fight misinformation and disinformation, especially on social media.
“Kaugnay nito, hinihikayat ko rin ang mga grupo ng media na tulungan ang ating mga kababayan upang alamin at tukuyin ang totoo at kung ano ang fake news,” President Marcos said.
The government is also working with the Department of Information and Communications Technology to improve content safeguards through partnerships with tech companies like Google and Meta.
Meanwhile, the Presidential Communications Office launched “Oplan Kontra Fake News,” a rapid-response system aimed at stopping the spread of false information.
The President also stressed the importance of transparency initiatives such as government portals and the use of modern technology like satellites and drones to monitor public projects.
“Kapag malaya ang pamamahayag at madaling makakuha ng tamang impormasyon, mas nagiging bukas ang pamahalaan,” President Marcos said.
The President called on KBP’s new leaders to continue promoting innovation in broadcasting in coordination with the National Telecommunications Commission to ensure fair and competitive industry rules.
“Please continue to uphold the values that have guided you for more than five decades: the values of independence, responsibility, innovation, and, of course, service to our people,” the President said.
President Marcos emphasized that cooperation between the media and the government is key to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that broadcasters can work safe
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