ABS-CBN news chief: ‘We strive to keep biases in check’

MANILA, Philippines — “We strive to keep biases in check, and to report on newsworthy events, persons and issues in an accurate, fair and balanced manner.”

That was what ABS-CBN Head of Integrated News and Current Affairs Ging Reyes told lawmakers on Monday as the House of Representatives takes up the media giant’s alleged “political bias” as it hears the network’s bid for another 25-year franchise.

Although she admitted that the media network, like any other, is not perfect, Reyes said ABS-CBN has mechanisms in handling its mistakes and correcting their wrongs.

“At the company level, we have an independent network Ombudsman who receives, investigates, and makes recommendations on complaints against news personnel,” Reyes said.

“At the news division level, we have standards and news practices unit that likewise ensures our journalists adhere to our own code of ethics and observe the highest professional and ethical standards,” she added.

Reyes admitted that since the network’s shutdown last May 5, it has been having difficulties in delivering news to the public.

The shutdown has likewise deprived millions of Filipinos of receiving relevant news and information, especially during a time of the pandemic, according to Reyes.

“Sa kabila ng aming limitasyon dulot ng shutdown, sinisikap pa rin namin ipagpatuloy ang pagbabalita lalo na ngayong panahon ng pandemya,” she said.

(Despite our limitations due to the shutdown, we strive to continue reporting, especially during the pandemic.)

“In the most trying of times we continue to deliver the news each day, knowing that doing so is an opportunity and a privilege not just to be a witness to history but to be a  force for good,” Reyes added.

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