Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the vital role of journalists in combating misinformation and upholding journalistic ethics during the oathtaking ceremony of newly-elected media group officers at Malacañan Palace on Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the ceremony was an opportunity to reinforce the importance of maintaining high ethical standards in journalism, free from bias, sensationalism, and personal motives. "I ask that you continue to adhere to the utmost ethical and professional standards of journalism," Marcos stated during his address to members of various media organizations.

The President highlighted the increasing challenges posed by social media, which complicates the public's ability to distinguish between legitimate news and misinformation. He pointed out the necessity for journalists to help guide the public in understanding what constitutes real news versus propaganda or fake news. "The mass, the volume of information is so much because of our technological advances. It is so much that we must play a part in trying to help ordinary readers, citizens to discern what is news, what is propaganda, and what is just outright fakery," he added.

During the event, President Marcos administered the oath to the newly elected officers of the National Press Club of the Philippines (NPC), Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), Malacañang Press Corps (MPC), Malacañang Cameraman Association (MCA), and Presidential Photojournalists Association (PPA). He also assured the media of the government's commitment to ensuring that the Philippines remains a safe haven for journalists.