House Speaker Martin Romualdez (Speaker’s office)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez has told Philippine broadcasters that their integrity "is more crucial than ever" amid an era where misinformation can spread like wildfire. 

Romualdez reminded local broadcasters of their crucial role even as various sectors slammed the "deepfake" or digitally-altered video falsely portraying President Marcos as instructing the military to take action against a specific country. 

Speaking during the 51st anniversary celebration of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas (KBP) om Thursday night, April 25 at the Manila Golf Club, Makati City, Romualdez praised the organization for more than five decades of exceptional service to the nation. 

“We recognize its indispensable role in our democracy--as a reliable source of truth and a facilitator of informed public discourse…Your role as custodians of truth is imperative in countering misinformation and upholding the public trust,” Romualdez, leader of the 300-plus strong House of Representatives, said. 

On Tuesday, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) cautioned the public about the President’s manipulated video circulating on social media, and refuted the authenticity of the manipulated content. 

Romualdez said that in an era marked by a redefinition of the media landscape due to evolving technology, transitioning from traditional platforms to digital spaces, and where misinformation can spread rapidly, “The integrity of our broadcasters is more crucial than ever.” 

“As you navigate these shifts – where liquid crystal displays have taken over cathode ray tubes, and digital content challenges traditional primetime – I urge you to remain steadfast,” he advised the KBP members. 

The House leader from Leyte also said that the framers of the 1987 Constitution were visionary in acknowledging communication's powerful role in nation-building. He underscored the need for broadcasters to uphold the integrity and clarity of information. 

“I commend the KBP for maintaining rigorous standards of truthfulness and fairness. Your unwavering commitment to these values showcases the best of Filipino broadcasting and fortifies our democratic foundations,” the Speaker said. 

“In this light, I appeal to the KBP to continue policing its ranks vigilantly. It is essential to actively weed out those who compromise on the ethics of truthful reporting and to set an example that resonates not just within our shores but across the global stage,” he added. 

“Elevating your standards to match, or even surpass, the world's best is a goal well within your reach and one that will significantly enhance the credibility and influence of Philippine broadcasting internationally,” he said.