Marcos urges media to promote child-sensitive, values-oriented TV content

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged Philippine media to utilize their platforms to promote "child-sensitive and values-oriented" content being shown on national television channels.

Marcos made the call in a speech delivered by Communication Secretary Cheloy Garafil during the Anak TV Seal Awards in Quezon City on Friday.

"It is worth mentioning that the younger generations learn social behaviors by observing adults and role models. So, let us provide them with the necessary guidance in their consumption of media, and encourage them to watch shows that will teach them how to engage effectively with their peers, elders, and communities," Marcos said in his speech as read by Garafil.

Marcos likewise called on the television network stakeholders, celebrities, and journalists to provide a "positive, nurturing, and inspiring" media landscape for Filipino children through policies and programs that would promote responsible TV viewership.

"I enjoin all Philippine TV networks, artists, and journalists, among others, to wield your power and utilize your platform in promoting media and online literacy and advocating child-sensitive content," the President said

"Continue to work with this Administration in shaping a more positive, nurturing, and inspiring media landscape for Filipino children by expanding your awareness of the needs of your young audience," he added.

The Anak TV Seal Awards is being rated by various stakeholders, including parents, educators, businesses, and media organizations. The seal awards are given to programs that "promote responsible TV viewership through child-sensitive and friendly show formats."

This year's awards were held after three years of hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Meanwhile, Marcos commended the award-giving body for recognizing "outstanding child-friendly television programs that play a role in the creation of a new generation of socially conscious Filipinos."

He likewise recognized the recipients of the Anak TV Seal Awards for "creating quality content that helps mold the Filipino children's values."