Shekinah Jedidiah Alima

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted the role of journalists in helping the public fight fake news as he spearheaded the oath-taking ceremony of the Association of Philippine Journalists (APJ) - Samahang Plaridel Foundation Inc. last August 2.

Photo Courtesy of Manila Standard.

"In this time of unregulated social media of fake news, 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," Marcos said in his speech at the Kalayaan Hall, Malacañang.

Marcos also admitted that he is not an exception when journalists hold politicians accountable for their actions.

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

He also recognized the role of journalists in keeping democracy in the Philippines alive through their profession.

“This administration recognizes the invaluable role of a free press and the robust media in ensuring a vibrant and functioning Filipino democracy,” he reiterated.

In the same speech, Marcos acknowledged their help on maintaining the public’s awareness of current societal issues.

“You helped keep people informed of important news and current events ensuring that there is a healthy, enlightened, meaningful discourse on matters of public importance."

Samahang Plaridel has been serving the Filipinos since 2003 and they aim to uphold the principles of truth, fairness and impartiality of Marcelo H. del Pilar who is considered as Father of Philippine Journalism.

Its members consist of professional media practitioners and communications specialists sharing the same advocacy of promoting press freedom and empowering journalism as a profession.

Press Freedom is one of the topics that Marcos did not tackle on his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) last July 22.