MANILA, Philippines 鈥� President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday called for the help of journalists in 鈥渄istinguishing facts from blatant lies鈥� in an era of unregulated social media, misinformation, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Marcos made the pronouncement during the oathtaking of the Board of Trustees of the Association of Philippine Journalists (APJ)鈥揝amahang Plaridel Foundation Incorporated at Malaca帽ang.
鈥淚n this time of unregulated social media, of fake news, [and] artificial intelligence, now more than ever, we need your help in empowering our people to distinguish the truth from fiction, and facts from blatant lies,鈥� said Marcos in a speech.
The President himself was a victim of harmful AI-generated content when a 鈥渄eepfake鈥� video recording him supposedly ordering an attack on China circulated online.
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Marcos then recognized the 鈥渋nvaluable鈥� role of a free press in 鈥渆nsuring a vibrant and functioning Philippine democracy鈥� by keeping the public informed of important news and events, which in turn, sheds light on matters of public importance.
鈥淵ou likewise help in holding public officers, including myself, accountable for our actions鈥攔ecognizing our work when we do well, and pointing out shortcomings whenever our work does not measure up to our sworn duties,鈥� he said.
The President also expressed hope that the APJ Samahang Plaridel Foundation would continue upholding the integrity, ethics, and professional standards of journalism.
鈥淟et your commitment to responsible, ethical, and fair reporting be the guide in inspiring your colleagues and aspiring journalists to follow your footsteps in the Fourth Estate,鈥� Marcos stated.
He assured journalists of his administration鈥檚 support in ensuring the safety and welfare of all media and committed to fostering an environment where they can continue to 鈥渇reely practice their profession.鈥�
READ: Focap forum: Marcos says PH needs a 鈥榗ritical鈥� press