Media wish list: Decriminalize libel, pass FOI, end red-tagging

Convenors of the 1st Philippine Media Safety Summit called on President Marcos to take concrete steps to support a critical press, which he said "best serves national interest."

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As Marcos delivers his third State of the Nation Address today, various media groups across the country have urged him to prioritize legislative measures that would decriminalize libel and enact a Freedom of Information Law.

"The President himself said it in April: 'the principal role of the press is not to applaud those who govern, but you hold us accountable, without holding back in giving praise to those who deserve it. Along with that stance is our collective goal of protecting the welfare and lives of journalists," the convenors said.

"Now is the time for Mr. Marcos to keep his promise and include efforts to ensure a 'truly free and safe environment for all journalists' in his SONA legislative priority," the group added.