During the 2025 Midyear General Assembly of the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI), the spotlight turned to the urgent fight against disinformation as Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Hon. Jaybee C. Ruiz took the stage. Speaking before a diverse gathering of media practitioners at the National Press Club in Manila on June 24, 2025, Ruiz underscored how vital the media’s role is in upholding truth and integrity in journalism. The assembly, themed “Fighting Fake News as United Missions,” served as a rallying point for both government and press to unite against the spread of fake news.
Secretary Ruiz’s message underscored the urgency of truth-telling in today’s media landscape. “Labanan ang kumakalat na fake news,” he firmly stated, calling for stronger legislation and penalties against those who deliberately spread false information. His remarks drew resounding support from attendees who shared the growing concern over the erosion of public trust caused by misinformation.
Ruiz also highlighted the administration’s three major communication and public engagement programs under President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. The first is the Bagong Pilipinas Presidential Action Center, a one-stop hub meant to directly connect citizens with government services. The second, as emphasized, is the national fight against fake news. The third is People-Centered Communication – an initiative designed to bring government closer to the people by ensuring they are well-informed of their rights and the services available to them.
“Let the people know what benefits they can get from the government,” Ruiz stressed, reinforcing the principle that communication is not just about information dissemination, but also about empowerment and inclusive governance. His words served as a reminder that the media and government must work together to ensure that citizens are not only informed but also protected from manipulation.
The event also highlighted the strengthening partnership between PAPI and the PCO. Both institutions affirmed their commitment to developing information channels that resonate with the needs and concerns of the public. Through collaboration, they aim to amplify voices of truth and provide platforms that support honest reporting and civic education.
In closing, Secretary Ruiz’s message resonated deeply with the PAPI members present. The shared vision of a “Bagong Pilipinas” rests on the shoulders of a well-informed citizenry – one that is equipped not only with facts but with the power to discern and engage. As Ruiz aptly put it, “In a Bagong Pilipinas, a well-informed citizen is an empowered citizen.”
This gathering served as a renewed call for solidarity among journalists, communicators, and public servants to rise above falsehoods and stand united in service of truth, transparency, and the Filipino people. (Reyland Lopez)