The Philippine Press Institute (PPI) called for renewed vigilance and solidarity in upholding ethical journalism amid the rise of artificial intelligence, disinformation, deepfakes, and increasing threats to media workers—especially during the election season.
In a statement released in celebration of this year’s World Press Freedom Day, the PPI emphasized the urgent need to rebuild public trust in media by reinforcing truthfulness, accuracy, and journalistic ethics, particularly as the nation approaches the May 12 midterm elections.
“In the age of AI and digital wars, how do we in media build trust? How do we uphold ethics amid a deluge of disinformation and deepfakes? And how do we perform our role as watchdogs during elections while fending off traditional threats and online attacks?” the PPI asked.
Watchdogs for public accountability
The PPI highlighted the role of its 10 Media-Citizen Councils (MCCs) nationwide, which serve as accountability platforms and forums for grievance redress.
These councils provide communities with avenues to address media misconduct while safeguarding against censorship and legal intimidation.
The PPI stressed that these councils are not just watchdogs for the media but also for the public interest.
“They serve as forums for addressing grievances and complaints, offering platforms for redress and providing mechanisms for individuals to voice concerns about misleading or inaccurate reporting—thereby mitigating potential legal repercussions,” the PPI added.
Attacks on journalists
The PPI also expressed grave concern over escalating violence and harassment against journalists, with at least 15 documented incidents since the official campaign period began in February.
Among the recent cases is a threat received by DZRH reporter Romy Gonzales from La Paz, Abra Mayor Joseph Bernos, who is currently running for a congressional seat.
Gonzales reported receiving a menacing message via Facebook Messenger after covering a shooting incident in Tayum, Abra, which resulted in one death and one arrest.
The PPI also strongly condemned the brutal killing of veteran journalist and former Kalibo Mayor Johnny Dayang.
“This heinous act sends a chilling message to the press: that no one is safe—not even the elderly, not even those who have long retired from the daily grind of media work,” the PPI said.
Call for unity in defending press freedom
As the election draws near, the PPI urged media organizations, civil society, and the public to stand united in defending press freedom from both traditional threats and online attacks.
“Despite our shortcomings, journalism’s best defense against these threats is serving the public,” the PPI said. “Our media-citizen councils give us hope, as the very communities we serve recognize the crucial role that media plays in a functioning democracy,” it added.
Every year on May 3, the world marks World Press Freedom Day, highlighting the crucial role of independent media in safeguarding democracy. It also serves as a call to protect journalists and uphold the fundamental right to press freedom.
