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REALITY CHECK: State of Journalism in the Philippines

DaangDokyu・87 minutes read

The Philippine media is experiencing a crisis marked by threats to press freedom, a hostile environment for journalists, and the impact of social media on public perception, leading to significant challenges in reporting and accountability. Despite these obstacles, there remains a strong public expectation for journalists to serve as truth-tellers, highlighting the urgent need for advocacy, support for independent media, and collaborative efforts to navigate the evolving landscape.

Insights

  • The Philippine media is in a crisis, struggling with issues of freedom, relevance, and economic viability, worsened by the dominance of digital platforms and analytics in news delivery, which complicates the public's access to trustworthy information.
  • Sheila Hornell highlights a persistent public expectation for journalists to uphold their role as truth-tellers and watchdogs, despite facing a climate of fear and repression, which reflects a deep-seated societal reliance on journalism for accountability and transparency.
  • The shutdown of ABS-CBN has not only resulted in a significant loss of news access for millions but also illustrates the broader implications for community engagement and advertising, revealing the vulnerabilities of media ownership and the urgent need for sustainable models to support independent journalism.
  • Concerns about the chilling effect on press freedom are prevalent, with veteran journalists expressing fears for their safety and the future of journalism, while younger reporters seek guidance and solidarity to navigate the increasingly hostile environment, underscoring the importance of mentorship and community-building.
  • The discussion emphasizes the critical need for advocacy and legislative reforms to protect press freedom, diversify media ownership, and support independent journalism, as these elements are essential for maintaining democracy and countering the pervasive spread of misinformation in the current political climate.

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Recent questions

  • What is press freedom?

    Press freedom refers to the right of journalists and media organizations to report news and express opinions without censorship, restraint, or legal penalties. It is a fundamental aspect of democracy, allowing for the dissemination of information, accountability of power, and the promotion of public discourse. In many countries, press freedom is protected by law, but it can be threatened by government actions, societal pressures, or economic challenges. The health of press freedom is often measured by the ability of journalists to operate independently, the existence of diverse media outlets, and the public's access to accurate information. In contexts where press freedom is compromised, journalists may face intimidation, violence, or legal repercussions, which can lead to a chilling effect on reporting and a less informed public.

  • How can I support independent journalism?

    Supporting independent journalism can be achieved through various means, including financial contributions, promoting their work on social media, and advocating for policies that protect press freedom. Many independent media outlets rely on donations, subscriptions, or crowdfunding to sustain their operations, so contributing to these initiatives can help ensure their survival. Additionally, sharing their articles and stories helps increase their visibility and reach, allowing them to inform a broader audience. Engaging in discussions about the importance of independent journalism within your community can also raise awareness about the challenges they face and encourage others to support these vital institutions. Furthermore, advocating for legislative reforms that protect journalists and promote media diversity can create a more favorable environment for independent journalism to thrive.

  • What are the effects of media shutdowns?

    Media shutdowns can have profound effects on society, particularly in terms of information access and public discourse. When a major media outlet is shut down, as seen with ABS-CBN in the Philippines, millions of viewers lose access to reliable news sources, leading to an information blackout that can hinder public awareness during critical events, such as natural disasters or political developments. This lack of access can create a vacuum filled by misinformation and propaganda, as audiences may turn to less credible sources for news. Additionally, media shutdowns can stifle diverse voices and perspectives, reducing the overall quality of public discourse and limiting the ability of citizens to hold power accountable. The economic ramifications can also be significant, affecting advertising revenues and local businesses that rely on media for promotion and community engagement.

  • Why is media literacy important?

    Media literacy is crucial in today's information-saturated environment, as it equips individuals with the skills to critically analyze and evaluate the news and information they consume. With the rise of misinformation and disinformation, particularly on social media platforms, being media literate helps people discern credible sources from unreliable ones, fostering informed decision-making. It encourages skepticism and critical thinking, enabling individuals to question the motives behind the information presented to them. Furthermore, media literacy promotes an understanding of the media's role in society, including the importance of press freedom and the impact of media ownership on content. By enhancing media literacy, communities can cultivate a more informed citizenry that actively engages with and supports independent journalism, ultimately strengthening democratic values.

  • What challenges do journalists face today?

    Journalists today face numerous challenges that threaten their ability to report freely and effectively. In many regions, including the Philippines, journalists encounter a hostile environment characterized by threats, violence, and legal repercussions for their work. Issues such as cyber libel, network shutdowns, and government censorship create a climate of fear that can deter reporters from pursuing critical stories. Additionally, the rise of misinformation and propaganda, particularly on social media, complicates the landscape, as journalists must compete against paid trolls and public relations campaigns that distort the truth. Economic pressures also play a significant role, with many media organizations struggling to maintain financial viability, leading to layoffs and reduced resources for investigative reporting. These challenges underscore the need for solidarity among journalists and support from the public to uphold press freedom and ensure the continued functioning of a robust media landscape.

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Summary

00:00

Philippine Media Faces Press Freedom Crisis

  • The Philippine media landscape is currently facing a crisis characterized by issues of relevance, freedom, and economic viability, exacerbated by the influence of analytics and digital platforms on news delivery.
  • Journalists in the Philippines are confronting a hostile environment marked by network shutdowns, cyber libel, confiscations, and violence, with a significant number of journalists having been killed in recent years.
  • The ongoing challenges to press freedom are not solely attributed to the current regime but are part of a long-standing struggle in the Philippines, with historical support for press freedom evident since the Marcos era.
  • Sheila Hornell, a prominent journalist, emphasizes that there is still a strong public expectation for journalists to act as watchdogs and chroniclers of truth, despite the current climate of fear and repression.
  • The public's outrage regarding press freedom issues, such as the shutdown of ABS-CBN, has not translated into large-scale protests, partly due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and a general focus on more immediate concerns in people's lives.
  • The media's struggle for freedom is complicated by the fact that many Filipinos rely on social media for news, which can distort perceptions and influence public opinion, often leading to a disconnect between media issues and public engagement.
  • Recent surveys indicate a high approval rating for President Duterte at 91%, but they also reveal that a significant portion of the population is aware of the pressures faced by the media, suggesting a complex relationship between public sentiment and government actions.
  • The pandemic has hindered the ability to mobilize large crowds for protests, but there have been notable expressions of support for press freedom, including social media engagement and volunteer sign-ups for initiatives supporting media rights.
  • Veteran journalists express concerns about the climate of fear affecting both seasoned and young reporters, highlighting the risks associated with standing up for press freedom in the current political environment.
  • The discussion underscores the need for a renewed commitment to advocacy for press freedom, as the media's role in democracy remains critical despite the challenges posed by government actions and societal pressures.

29:58

Philippines Political Climate and Media Challenges

  • The discussion highlights the complex political landscape in the Philippines, particularly under the Duterte administration, characterized by authoritarian populism and significant public support, as evidenced by over 16 million votes in the 2016 elections despite a backdrop of violence, including 1,000 deaths in Davao.
  • Journalists emphasize the importance of understanding the political dynamics and public perception of leadership in preparation for the upcoming national elections in two years, suggesting that this understanding is crucial for effective reporting.
  • Concerns are raised about the chilling effect on journalism, with questions about whether reporters feel intimidated or scared, yet there is a counterargument that the vibrant and aggressive nature of social media indicates a lack of fear among the populace.
  • A journalist expresses anger over the current climate, noting personal legal challenges with eight criminal cases that could lead to nearly 100 years of imprisonment, highlighting the severe consequences faced by those in the media for their work.
  • The conversation shifts to the government's fear of exposure, with assertions that the administration's actions, such as closing down the largest TV network, stem from a desire to suppress the truth and prevent accountability for corruption and abuses.
  • Speculation about the post-Duterte era suggests that the nature of the new administration will significantly influence media coverage and accountability, with hopes for a resurgence of independent journalism and institutional integrity.
  • The role of international bodies, such as the International Criminal Court, is mentioned as a potential avenue for accountability regarding the thousands of victims of the drug war, emphasizing the need for both justice and reconciliation within affected communities.
  • The discussion critiques the understanding of press freedom among politicians, suggesting that many support it only when it aligns with their interests, and that there is a troubling trend of demonizing media for unfavorable coverage.
  • The historical context of media repression in the Philippines is acknowledged, with comparisons drawn to past administrations, indicating a cyclical pattern of crises and the need for vigilance in protecting democratic values.
  • The conversation concludes with reflections on the current political climate, noting the unprecedented level of intimidation faced by journalists and the implications for public opinion, particularly in light of the recent midterm elections that saw the opposition completely wiped out.

48:13

Disinformation and Media Challenges in the Philippines

  • The government exhibits a fear-driven approach, particularly in its legal preparations for withdrawing from the International Criminal Court (ICC), reflecting a tense political climate reminiscent of the 1986 overthrow in Thailand.
  • A systematic campaign of disinformation and propaganda is being employed by the government, primarily through social media, contrasting with past tactics that focused on restricting unfavorable information.
  • This global trend of disinformation is not unique to the Philippines; it mirrors tactics used in countries like Russia and China, where the assault on truth and democracy is prevalent.
  • The current media landscape is characterized by a "firehose of falsehoods," where frequent lies from leaders overwhelm fact-checking efforts, leading to public confusion and docility regarding the truth.
  • The case of ABS-CBN exemplifies the manipulation of media narratives, where accusations of oligarchy serve as a form of gaslighting, diverting attention from the real issues of power and money.
  • Media ownership in the Philippines has historically been a vulnerability, with major players like the Prietos and Lopezes facing scrutiny, while independent media struggle for audience and resources.
  • The financial challenges of running a media company in the Philippines are significant, with ABS-CBN reportedly losing 30 million pesos daily during its shutdown, highlighting the need for sustainable media ownership models.
  • Models for independent media include taxpayer-supported public broadcasting systems seen in countries like the UK and Canada, which ensure representation and independence from political influence.
  • Legislative reforms are suggested to remove government control over media licensing, advocating for the protection of smaller media companies and journalists, especially in provincial areas vulnerable to violence.
  • The discussion emphasizes the importance of diversifying media ownership and supporting community journalism to enhance the viability and protection of local voices in the media landscape.

01:06:26

Reforming Media for Freedom and Integrity

  • Advocacy for the decriminalization of libel is essential to protect journalists and promote freedom of expression, as current laws are seen as oppressive tools against the media.
  • The implementation of a media information literacy module for students should be revisited and introduced earlier than grade 11 to better prepare youth for understanding news cycles and processes.
  • Technology legislation is needed to address the spread of misinformation on social media platforms, which often prioritize sensationalism over factual reporting, undermining the integrity of news delivery.
  • Support for independent journalism is critical, with initiatives aiming to raise $1 billion annually to fund global independent media, highlighting the lack of similar efforts in the Philippines.
  • Community media should be prioritized, with proposals for low-interest loans from banks to support small media entrepreneurs and cooperatives, ensuring diverse media representation, especially in rural areas.
  • The establishment of public hotspots and libraries is recommended to improve access to diverse media sources beyond social media, fostering a more informed public.
  • A call for a public journalism fund is made to support independent media and educational projects, similar to existing subsidies for independent documentaries.
  • Education systems must adapt to teach critical thinking and skepticism, helping future generations discern fact from fiction in an era dominated by misinformation.
  • The media landscape requires a shift from entertainment-focused content to more informative reporting, addressing the audience's need for accurate news rather than sensationalism.
  • Partnerships between media, the public sector, and civil society are crucial for funding community news organizations, enhancing the overall democratic environment and ensuring diverse voices are heard.

01:23:37

Media Crisis and Collaboration in Journalism

  • The power of news organizations has diminished due to technological advancements, shifting the gatekeeping role to social media platforms, which manipulate user behavior and perceptions, particularly in the context of pro-Duterte propaganda in the Philippines.
  • Civil society is encouraged to support journalists and truth-tellers financially and morally, emphasizing the importance of collaboration across various forms of storytelling, including partnerships with musicians, illustrators, and private businesses for educational products.
  • There is a call for creative meet-ups to brainstorm collaborative projects between journalists and artists, recognizing that journalism and art can coexist and enhance each other rather than being seen as separate entities.
  • The impact of layoffs in journalism is significant, with approximately 11,000 journalists affected, many of whom are starting small businesses or taking breaks to recover from the trauma of job loss, while some are seeking work in public relations or government roles.
  • The closure of ABS-CBN has resulted in a massive information blackout, affecting around 60 to 69 million Filipino viewers who no longer have access to free-to-air news, leading to a lack of timely updates during emergencies like typhoons.
  • The operational capacity of remaining news channels has been severely reduced, with ABS-CBN now signing off at 10 PM instead of 24/7 broadcasting, and advertising revenues plummeting from 15 million pesos a day to about 1 million on good days.
  • The cultural and economic ramifications of the ABS-CBN shutdown extend beyond journalism, impacting advertising and community engagement, as the loss of local news stations has left many regions without reliable information sources.
  • Young journalists are seeking guidance on how to navigate the current media landscape, emphasizing the need for solidarity and community-building among journalists to foster resilience and collaboration in the face of challenges.
  • The importance of regional news coverage is highlighted, with former regional reporters continuing to engage their communities through social media, ensuring that local stories remain visible despite the shutdown of local TV patrols.
  • The discussion underscores the urgency of protecting democracy and the role of journalism in society, urging individuals to recognize the value of facts and collective action to address the current media crisis and uphold democratic values.

01:45:09

Resilience and Collaboration in Philippine Journalism

  • The Folk Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines was founded in 1974 by Gabi Tabunya and Teddy Benigno to promote journalistic independence, resisting the influence of Imelda Marcos, and has lasted nearly 50 years.
  • The Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) was established in 1989 by Sheila Coronel, and Rappler was founded in 2011-2012 by Maria Ressa and her colleagues, showcasing the longevity and resilience of independent media in the Philippines.
  • Young journalists, such as those involved in campus journalism led by Regine Kabato, have organized multiple workshops to foster careers in journalism, indicating a proactive approach among the youth in the field.
  • Collaborative journalism is encouraged, with a suggestion to create a publication where reporters from different organizations, like GMA and ABS-CBN, can work together on stories, breaking down corporate boundaries.
  • The real competition for journalists is not among themselves but against misinformation and propaganda, as public relations professionals and paid trolls outnumber journalists, necessitating a united front.
  • The Puma Podcast group serves as a non-competitive platform for collaboration, producing investigative podcasts like "Tokhang sa Tokhan," which involved journalists from various media sectors working together on a common mission.
  • There is a call for mentorship opportunities where experienced journalists can guide young or campus journalists through the entire story development process, fostering skill transfer and collaboration.
  • Technology transfer is highlighted as a potential benefit, allowing urban journalists to share resources and knowledge with those in rural areas, enhancing the overall quality of journalism.
  • Suggestions for small, actionable steps include hosting meetings between journalists and artists for collaborative storytelling and creating regular gatherings to foster relationships between the old guard and new journalists.
  • The need for contextualizing social media posts and learning from successful examples in journalism, such as Field Star News and Ed Yong from The Atlantic, is emphasized to improve the quality of news reporting and audience engagement.

02:04:44

Gratitude and Integrity in Journalism Today

  • The speaker emphasizes the importance of gratitude in journalism, noting that when publishing significant articles, it is beneficial to acknowledge editors and fellow reporters, as well as highlight other journalists' stories from different outlets to foster a collaborative environment in media coverage.
  • A strong emphasis is placed on the integrity of journalism, advocating for stories to be empirically solid and watertight to withstand legal challenges and harassment, with the assertion that thorough training and resource utilization are essential for journalists to produce reliable content.
  • The speaker reflects on the current political climate, warning that the administration is becoming authoritarian, drawing parallels to historical figures like Marcos, and stresses the need for journalists to remain vigilant and united in their craft amidst these challenges.
  • Acknowledgment is given to various educational institutions and students participating in the discussion, with a reminder that a recording of the conversation will be available online, and an invitation to support the ongoing documentary series, which is recognized by the U.S. Library of Congress as a significant resource.
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