President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on media workers to safeguard their credibility against the rising threats of artificial intelligence (AI) and intentional online disinformation, reinforcing his commitment to defend press freedom.
Addressing members of international media organizations at the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) Presidential Luncheon, Marcos emphasized that digital technologies and fake news continue to challenge key institutions while undermining public trust.
He affirmed his obligation to support journalists in navigating these obstacles.
“The Philippine government recognizes that a free, independent and responsible press remains indispensable to any democratic society,” the President told members of foreign news organizations based in the country.
“This is why we consider media practitioners, including our photojournalists, as our partners in promoting good governance and transparency,” he said.
During his address, Marcos revisited key points from his fifth State of the Nation Address on July 27, where he called for accountability regarding questionable flood control initiatives.
He explicitly named his cousin, former House Speaker and Leyte 1st District Representative Martin Romualdez, as one of the figures who must be held responsible for the alleged irregularities.
The Chief Executive underlined the critical timing of these checks, particularly given the ongoing wet season and its associated environmental dangers.
“It’s especially urgent right now as we are facing the rainy season, where communities across the country face heightened risks from flooding and other hazards that come along with it,” he said, adding:
“Every peso invested in these projects must translate into real protection for our people and our communities.”
Highlighting the vital role of the press in building public confidence, Marcos warned against the consequences of unchecked speculation and manufactured stories.
“For when uncertainty becomes the dominant narrative, markets hesitate, people become polarized and the public discourse is dangerously weak,” Marcos said.
The Chief Executive reminded media professionals that legal support and protective mechanisms remain accessible through the Presidential Task Force on Media Security.
While acknowledging that disagreements between the administration and the press are inevitable, Marcos insisted that both sides must remain committed to the pursuit of truth and factual integrity.
“The government and the media may not always agree, nor should they. But our shared interest remains the same- the pursuit of truth,” the President said.