Senate media, NUJP condemn Marcoleta’s ‘paid hacks’ remark vs journalists

Journalists covering the Senate and the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) on June 4, condemned Sen. Rodante Marcoleta’s accusation that members of mainstream media are “paid hacks”, calling the remarks a baseless attack on the press and a threat to public trust in journalism.

The statements were issued after Marcoleta made the remarks during a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing, where he criticized media coverage related to the ongoing political dispute surrounding the cancellation of an inquiry into alleged corruption in flood control projects.

In a joint statement, Senate media described Marcoleta’s allegation as “not only irresponsible, but a reckless attack on an institution widely acknowledged as essential to any functioning democracy”.

The group said the senator’s comments unfairly targeted journalists who continue to face intimidation, harassment, and threats, while carrying out their duty to inform the public and hold government officials accountable.

“At a time when disinformation and political polarization continue to undermine public discourse, government officials should exercise greater restraint and responsibility in their pronouncements,” the Senate media stated.

The journalists warned that accusations against the press without supporting evidence could weaken public confidence in legitimate journalism and contribute to hostility against media practitioners.

“The Fourth Estate exists to serve the public interest. Its duty is to pursue facts, verify information, question those in power and report developments without fear or favor,” the statement read.

NUJP also echoed the condemnation, saying that Marcoleta’s remarks were part of an effort to discredit the media amid growing tensions between rival political camps.

“Marcoleta’s tirades are clear attempts to undermine the public’s trust in the media amid the coverage of intensifying rift between two political camps,” the organization said in a separate statement.

The media group emphasized that journalists are obligated to seek the truth and demand accountability regardless of political affiliation, adding that Senate reporters were merely performing their responsibilities.
“Portraying the media as partisan only means to distract the public from real issues that should be put into light. Allegations of corruption hurled against either side must be investigated fully. Journalism’s loyalty is to the people, not to any partisan group with vested interests,” NUJP stated.

Both the Senate media and the NUJP maintained that criticism of media coverage is legitimate in a democratic society but stressed that public officials must present evidence when making serious accusations against journalists.