Malacañang welcomed the Philippines’ improved ranking in the World Press Freedom Index, rising from 134th to 116th out of 180 countries — the highest in 21 years, according to Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

In a Monday briefing, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was “delighted” with the country’s progress in upholding press freedom.

“Definitely, that’s good news. It shows the President respects freedom of expression and responsible journalism,” Castro said.

She emphasized that this development counters any claims of the President leaning toward dictatorship, akin to his father’s rule, and affirmed that press freedom is respected under this Marcos administration.

Castro also noted that no journalists were killed in 2024, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), though she reminded media workers to remain vigilant, especially during an election year.

The recent killing of journalist Juan Dayang, who was shot at his home in Kalibo, Aklan, serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by media workers. Authorities are investigating the incident, considering various motives, as Dayang once served as Kalibo’s mayor.

The Presidential Task Force on Media Security pledged to continue protecting press freedom, with Castro reiterating President Marcos’ commitment to journalists.

“The President promised in 2024 that ‘we are doubling down on our commitment to protect journalists and uphold press freedom. We stand with you hand-in-hand in this fight,’” Castro said.

She added, “As our President stated in 2024, and as we now see, the administration will continue to strengthen press freedom.”