Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) 50th Anniversary Presidential Forum
The Manila Hotel, City of Manila
April 15, 2024
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. graces the 50th anniversary of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) and participates in a Presidential Forum during its celebration at The Manila Hotel in the City of Manila on April 15, 2024.
This event marks the first FOCAP Presidential Forum since its last gathering in 2015.
In his address, President Marcos Jr. emphasizes the pivotal role of an independent press in upholding accountability and providing accurate information to the public amidst the prevalence of disinformation.
"The principal role of the press is not to applaud those who govern, but to hold them 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 President states.
He also underscores his commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of journalists, highlighting the efforts of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) in addressing threats against them.
"Rest assured that the government, through the Presidential Task Force on Media Security, is always on top of ensuring a safe environment for media practitioners in the country," he stresses.
The Chief Executive congratulates the FOCAP on its 50th anniversary and commends the Association for fostering dialogue and transparency between the government and the media.
An integral part of the Philippines' free press tradition, the FOCAP has proven its mettle in covering diverse domestic and geopolitical conflicts with remarkable credibility since its inception in 1974.
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