(Photo by Paolo Manalo / Manila PIO)
As part of the National Press Freedom Day celebration, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso visited the National Press Club (NPC) in Intramuros on Saturday, August 30, shortly after leading a wreath-laying ceremony at the monument of Marcelo H. del Pilar in Malate.
In his remarks, Domagoso recognized the vital role of the media in promoting transparency and delivering accurate information to the public.
“Trabaho ninyo ang malayang pamamahayag, at tungkulin ko naman bilang alkalde ang magpaliwanag at maghayag ng mga programang tatahakin ng pamahalaang lungsod (Your job is free and independent journalism, and my duty as mayor is to explain and present the direction of the city government’s programs),” the mayor said.
He emphasized that the City of Manila upholds press freedom and supports the rights of media workers to report without fear or restriction.
“Rest assured, kayong mamamahayag ay malaya dito sa Maynila. Umasa kayo na suportado namin ang malayang pamamahayag sa Lungsod ng Maynila (You can count on our support for a free press in the City of Manila),” he added.
The visit comes in commemoration of the 175th birth anniversary of Marcelo H. del Pilar, regarded as the "Father of Philippine Journalism," and the observance of National Press Freedom Day, held every August 30 under Republic Act No. 11699.
The local chief executive's message reinforces the city’s commitment to open communication, transparency, and a strong working relationship between the local government and the media.