MANILA, Philippines — The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) called out Sen. Rodante Marcoleta over his allegations that members of the Senate media are “bayaran”, or paid hacks.
In a statement, the PTFOMS said the senator’s 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,” it said on Thursday.
The body was referring to Marcolecta’s accusation that “most” of the journalists covering the chamber are “paid”, a claim the PTFOMS reiterated 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.
The PTFOMS likewise renewed its call for journalists and emphasizes that criticism of the media, like any public discourse, must be grounded in verifiable facts.
“Only then can we ensure a safe and thriving environment for press freedom, a cornerstone of our democratic society,” it said.
Meanwhile, members of the Senate media have responded to Marcoleta.
“Journalists deserve neither blind praise nor baseless condemnation, but they do deserve the freedom to report without being branded, bullied or sacrificed in the political battles of others,” they said.