Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday highlighted the essential role of a 'free, independent, and responsible' media in ensuring that truth triumphs over speculation and fake news. Speaking at the presidential luncheon hosted by the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines at Diamond Hotel Philippines, Marcos emphasized the shared responsibility of the media and government in safeguarding credibility, which he described as the foundation of their work and the core of public trust.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos underscored that the Philippine government acknowledges the indispensability of a free and independent press in any democratic society. He acknowledged media practitioners, including photojournalists, as partners in promoting good governance and transparency. Marcos expressed concern over the rapid spread of information across digital platforms, whether factual or fabricated, AI-generated or manipulated, highlighting the challenges it poses to public trust.

He warned that such uncertainty has the potential to hinder markets, polarize communities, and weaken public discourse. "Ultimately, effective governance is not measured solely by what the government builds, but also by the trust that it earns from the people that we serve," Marcos stated. He stressed the crucial role a responsible and independent media plays in informing the public, scrutinizing those in power, and ensuring that facts prevail over speculation and fake news.

Marcos reiterated his unwavering commitment to defending and upholding press freedom, emphasizing the government's dedication to protecting the public's right to accurate information. He cited the launch of OPLAN Contra Fake News, aimed at safeguarding the public from disinformation and holding accountable those responsible. Marcos also mentioned the efforts of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security in enhancing legal assistance, coordination, and cybercrime response mechanisms to better protect media practitioners.