The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) led by its executive director Undersecretary Paul Gutierrez, Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) headed by its president Dr. Cecilio Pedro and Filipino-Chinese Journalists Amity Club represented by its president Billy Ang, facilitated the 2024 Filipino-Chinese Media Summit with the theme “Ethical Reporting in Multicultural Societies” on Aug. 20, 2024 at the Federation Center in Binondo, Manila.
Dr. Pedro underscored the media’s significant role in informing, educating and inspiring the public and called for a collaborative effort among media, local government units and the private sector to address fake news and provide relief to disaster victims, while promoting better relations between Filipinos and Chinese.
Ang highlighted the inherent risks faced by journalists in the Philippines, particularly when covering sensitive political and criminal issues. He emphasized his organization’s efforts to work with government agencies to safeguard journalists and ensure their protection.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Atty. Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil addressed the summit via message, emphasizing the current era of free-flowing information.
She noted the exposure to both irrational ideologies and opportunities for greater inclusivity and diversity. “As members of the press, you have the power to steer public opinion towards a culture of acceptance and open-mindedness,” Garafil said.
Gutierrez discussed the creation of PTFoMs/AO 1 Series of 2016: Safeguarding of Press Freedom. He outlined the roles of his office and its partner agencies.
He also presented the journalist’s code of ethics and emphasized the importance of fairness, honesty and confidentiality in journalism.
Police Lt. Col. Al Paglinawan, secretariat head of Task Force USIG, discussed the fundamentals of democracy, particularly freedom of expression.
He addressed the distinctions between freedom of opinion and expression, and the challenges such as censorship, misinformation and threats to journalists. Paglinawan called for open dialogue, support for free press and vigilance against efforts to restrict press rights.
Police Lt. Col. Eunice Salas, chief of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Regional Public Information Office (RPIO), provided insights on media personnel security. Her comprehensive discussion covered risk assessment, preparation and planning, and safety measures for personal and travel security.
“The PNP recognizes the importance of media in providing information and education. Media is a valuable partner of the PNP,” Salas said.
Austin Ong, co-founder of the Philippine China Friendship Society, spoke on combating sinophobia and the advantages of Chinese advancement. He urged a focus on the economic and social benefits of China’s progress rather than political disagreements.
“We should focus on how our economy and people can benefit from China and set aside political issues,” Ong said, advocating for a more collaborative and forward-looking approach.
The summit concluded with a renewed commitment to ethical reporting and media safety, underscoring the role of media in promoting understanding and collaboration within a multicultural society.
Julie Ann Lope
