Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Jay Ruiz on Monday emphasized the importance of providing accurate and reliable information, especially during major national events like the 2025 midterm elections.
Ruiz visited the Integrated State Media (ISM) Command Center in Quezon City to check on the real-time coverage of government-owned media platforms during the elections. Under the Hatol ng Bayan 2025 banner, the PCO brought together the combined efforts of radio, television, and online teams to deliver timely, credible updates to the public.
“This isn’t just about coverage — it’s about trust,” Ruiz told reporters. “If you want accurate and fair election coverage, this is where you’ll find it.”
State-run outlets under the ISM include Radyo Pilipinas, People’s Television (PTV-4), Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation (IBC-13), the Philippine News Agency, and the Philippine Information Agency. All operate under the PCO’s supervision.
Ruiz said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had earlier made it clear that state media must serve as “the eyes, ears, and voice of the Filipino people.”
“The President reminded us that we must show the nation that the government is here for them — especially today, on election day,” Ruiz said. “It’s our duty to provide correct and timely information.”
Ruiz, a longtime broadcast journalist and former ABS-CBN reporter, was appointed as PCO chief in February 2025. His main marching orders: fight misinformation and disinformation, and strengthen the credibility of government communications.
“Social media can be a powerful tool, but it can also be a breeding ground for fake news,” he said. “That’s why we’re here — to be a credible, stable source of truth.”
He added that the PCO’s commitment goes beyond just reporting — it’s about serving the public interest.
“We’re not just a newsroom,” Ruiz said. “We are a public service, and we will continue working to make sure that every Filipino gets access to the right information, especially during critical moments like this.”
