Marcos underscores media role in misinformation fight

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Thursday underscored the role of the media in the fight against misinformation.

In his remarks at the 50^th Top Level Management Conference (TLMC) of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), Marcos stressed that an informed citizenry is the foundation of a truly working democracy.

“This conviction stands particularly critical for we live in an age where information can be shared and received instantly,” he said. “With this vast reach comes the crucial and absolutely very complex and difficult responsibility of distinguishing fact from fiction, standing guard against distortion.”

Marcos, who maintains a large presence on social media, said online platforms have seen a rise in disinformation and misinformation campaigns that could undermine public trust in the democratic process.

“In this regard, the media plays a vital role in dispelling the noxious influence of misinformation, dismantling the lies that are spread by troll farms and other malicious organizations,” he said.

He noted that responsible journalism will help win the fight.

“This responsibility goes beyond simply informing. It enlightens, it empowers. By championing integrity and accuracy, the broadcast media helps build public trust, which in turn strengthens our democracy,” he explained.

Marcos highlighted the influence that journalists have.

“With every report, story, and headline, you help shape public perception — strengthening our citizens’ capabilities to make informed choices and to voice their dreams and aspirations,” he said.

In the same spirit, Marcos urged the media sector to help the country have a clean, honest, transparent, and accountable election next year.

He underscored the importance of the partnership between the KBP and the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting for the 2025 midterm polls.

“I urge you to remain steadfast in these principles that protect the trust bestowed to all of us by the Filipino people,” Marcos said.

 “Let us also explore new and creative ways to engage and inspire the public. We need a citizenry that is not only informed but is also actively involved — vigilant, ready to defend the values that we hold dear,” he added.

The KBP was organized on 27 April, 1973, as a non-government and non-profit organization of the Philippine broadcast media.

The KBP TLMC is an annual conference aiming to discuss various broadcast media trends and issues and plans for the future development of the industry.