THE Photojournalists’ Center of the Philippines (PCP) on Thursday expressed concern over comments by Sen. Rodante Marcoleta describing media members as paid hacks.
In a statement, the PCP said such accusations undermine public trust in legitimate journalism and contribute to an environment “where media workers may be exposed to harassment, intimidation and threats.”
“Criticism of the press is part of democratic discourse and should always be welcomed when it is grounded in facts. However, public officials who make serious allegations against journalists have a responsibility to present evidence, not rely on broad and inflammatory claims that malign an entire profession,” the group said.
It urged Marcoleta “to identify the journalists he believes have violated professional and ethical standards. If he possesses evidence of wrongdoing, he should present it before the appropriate bodies and allow due process to take its course.” “Public office must be used to uphold democratic freedoms and accountability, not to cast suspicion on the very institutions tasked with informing the public and scrutinizing those in power,” the PCP said.
The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) also called out Marcoleta, saying his assertion is not only unfounded but also “poses a significant threat” to the safety and security of journalists “who perform essential roles in our democracy.”
“These sweeping statements threaten media credibility and expose them to potential harm. Journalists have a duty to report accurately and impartially, and it is critical that public officials respect their role as watchdogs of accountability and truth,” PTFOMS said on Thursday.
Marcolecta made the accusation during a meeting at the Senate earlier attended by the so-called 18 former Marines as part of the inquiry on the massive flood corruption scandal.
The PTFOMS reiterated Marcoleta’s claim must be backed by evidence and not just with “vague aspersions.”
“Senator Marcoleta, who has previously championed accountability, should adhere to these ideals by either backing his claims with solid evidence or withdrawing his comments and apologizing to the journalists he has wrongfully accused,” it said.
“Casting vague aspersions against the media doesn’t foster constructive dialogue. It threatens the very foundations of democratic processes by attempting to sway public opinion against those tasked with holding those in power to account,” it added.
Members of the Senate media have also called out Marcoleta.
