Role of Philippine Mass Media

Senator Edgardo J. Angara today reiterated the important role that media plays in society as the eyes and ears of the people, and further urged the press to illustrate the social reality of a society that neglects the poor and the deprived.

"Mass media's role as watchdogs of government is very important. However, they need to act as instruments of hope as well. Sure the shenanigans of public figures must be known and written about. But in order for our people to truly appreciate our country, they must depict the world as they see it and write about the social reality," said Angara speaking before members of the Bacolod City Press Corps during the group's induction held recently.

Angara also called on members of the press to pursue fairness and accuracy in reporting, especially since the readers and viewers have alternative sources of information by which to verify facts and information.

"Because of the internet, the floodgates of information have been opened. The public can now access news with one click. Therefore, it is doubly important for the reporters to provide accurate news and reportage to the public who is now more knowledgeable and resourceful in technology," Angara said.

"A reporter's job is indeed tedious and tough. When times are uneasy and life seems too strenuous, all the more should the reporter practice accuracy and fairness for the power of the pen and the power of a sound byte can make or break people or institutions," he continued.

Angara noted that great newspapers of the world have a certain rule which they always follow. That is, not to publish a story if it comes from only one source; there must be a second source to countercheck the facts of the story.

"The need for double verification is more urgent because one can check readily every single fact and information of the story and can punish the careless," Angara explained.