Velasco: Media’s role of providing reliable information crucial during pandemic

Speaker Lord Allan Velasco. INQUIRER/NIÑO JESUS ORBETA

MANILA, Philippines — Speaker Lord Allan Velasco on Tuesday recognized the role of the mainstream media in this time of the pandemic, commending them for preventing the spread of not just the coronavirus but also “of false or misleading information.”

In his message after administering the oath of office to newly elected officers and trustees of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), Velasco noted the importance of reliable information.

“Timely, accurate, and verified information received thru the mainstream media has justly empowered our people, enabling greater and more equitable access to health care, preventing discrimination, and avoiding social stigmatization,” Velasco told members of the KBP during the online event.

As he expressed concern over false or manipulated information about COVID-19, he also underlined the significance of the public’s access to trustworthy information and to free and independent media.

He believes that free and independent media is essential to promote transparency and accountability and to fight misinformation. He said reliable news contributes to public confidence and support for government efforts to beat COVID-19.

The mainstream media “help protect the health and safety of communities by neutralizing or preventing the spread, not just of the virus, but of false or misleading information,” according to Velasco.

“We express concern at the damage which can and has been done by the spreading of false or manipulated information about the disease and government’s pandemic response,” he also said. “We need to push back on disinformation and propaganda, and the support of mainstream media is crucial in this fight.”

The House top leader then thanked media organizations and their workers for their “unwavering commitment to provide the general public up-to-date, verified, and timely information, despite the health and safety hazards posed by the pandemic.”

“Hindi po matatawaran ang kontribusyon ng mga kasama natin sa media bilang tunay na frontliners sa laban natin kontra sa umiiral na pandemya. Maraming, maraming salamat po sa lahat ng tulong, sakripisyo, at kadakilaan ninyo,” he said.

(The contribution of our comrades in the media as true frontliners in our fight against the existing pandemic cannot be underestimated. Thank you for all your help, sacrifice, and greatness.)

– Liezelle Soriano Roy, trainee

KGA