President Marcos congratulated the Manila Bulletin on its 125th anniversary, recognizing the organization's enduring commitment to truthful journalism and public service.

"I extend my warmest greetings to the men and women of the Manila Bulletin Publishing Corporation as you convene to celebrate decades of remarkable public service as heralds of truth," he said in his message.

Vice President Sara Duterte also greeted the Manila Bulletin Publishing Corp. on its 125th anniversary, noting how it has stayed fair and integrious as it brings information to the people.

Reliable information

President Marcos commended the Manila Bulletin’s efforts in delivering reliable information despite the challenges posed by the rapidly evolving technological landscape.

"In recent years, the mission to validate, gather, and deliver information effectively in an ever-evolving technological landscape has become more challenging and essential," he said.

"On your 125th Anniversary, I trust that you will continue to produce accurate news articles and publications that our people need and deserve," he added.

Marcos underscored the crucial role of journalism in raising public awareness, promoting accountability, and contributing to good governance.

He expressed confidence that the Manila Bulletin would continue its legacy of producing accurate news that the public both needs and deserves.

"By raising public awareness and advocating for accountability, you elevate the quality of governance and, in turn, enhance the lives of our citizens," he said.

"May you continue to explore and create innovative solutions to combat misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation. By working together, we can achieve a fair, transparent, and progressive Bagong Pilipinas for all," he added.

‘Staying resilient’

In her message, the Vice President thanked the company for providing a platform to voice out different views.

“I congratulate the Manila Bulletin Publishing Corporation for 125 years of staying resilient in the spirit of integrity and fairness,” she said.

Duterte also thanked the Manila Bulletin “for empowering Filipinos with information and fostering greater civic engagement by giving voice to the unheard and providing a platform for different perspectives”.

Stressing that the Office of the Vice President (OVP) “recognizes the media's role in ensuring democracy thrives in our country,” she expressed hope that the Manila Bulletin will “continue to guide the Filipino people to be more discerning of misinformation and fractured narratives.”

“As we enter another chapter of our journey toward a more progressive nation, your role as the press has never been more indispensable,” the official added.

Steadfast pillar of journalism

Senate President Senate President Francis "Chiz" G. Escudero also extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Manila Bulletin on its 125th anniversary. 

“For more than a century, the publication has been a steadfast pillar of journalism in the Philippines, consistently delivering reliable and comprehensive news to the Filipino people,” he said.

“Over the years, the Manila Bulletin has evolved and expanded its media presence, embracing various platforms from print to social media, website, and video channels. Your commitment to innovation and adaptation has ensured that the news remains accessible and relevant to audiences of all ages and backgrounds,” he added.

Escudero also paid tribute to the newspaper’s crucial role in preserving the country’s history “as you documented significant events and provided a platform for diverse voices and perspectives.” “Your efforts have not only informed the public but also contributed to the nation’s collective memory and identity,” he stressed.

“I commend the entire Manila Bulletin team for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence in journalism. May you continue to inspire and inform future generations of media professionals with the same passion and integrity that have defined your legacy,” Escudero said.

“At the same time, I urge you to continue embracing new technologies and platforms to reach an even wider audience, ensuring that the Manila Bulletin remains at the forefront of journalism in the digital age. Your role in shaping public opinion and preserving our history is invaluable, and I have no doubt that you will continue to excel in this mission,” he added.

Dedication and resilience

Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo said that reaching a quarter and one century in publishing a daily newspaper is a remarkable achievement, one that reflects both dedication and resilience. 

“But providing the news with the highest regard for truth, accuracy, impartiality, and independence makes this milestone truly exceptional for it demonstrates an unwavering commitment not just to responsible journalism but also to public service. Through honest and unbiased news reporting, Manila Bulletin has consistently. served as a trusted source of news, fostering a well-informed citizenry and enabling them to engage meaningfully in civic life,” he said.

“In today's digital world where traditional news organizations are constantly challenged to adapt, Manila Bulletin continues to ensure that its news remains both accessible and relevant. The challenges of maintaining accuracy and fairness have never been more pressing, and privacy, fake news and misinformation likewise pose significant concerns. Yet, Manila Bulletin has remained steadfast in upholding its core values and ethical standards, standing as a beacon of truth and objectivity in the realm of print media,” he added. 

“Manila Bulletin's commitment to these values will ensure that its voice remains a reliable source of information. By staying true to its mission of delivering accurate, unbiased news, it will continue to be a vital force in nurturing a vibrant and democratic society.” 

“Congratulations on your 125th anniversary, and we look forward to many more years of excellence, truth, and integrity in news reporting,” the Chief Justice said.

Pillar of truth

House Speaker Martin Romualdez described Manila Bulletin’s 125^th year as an “extraordinary milestone in journalism.”

“Like the 2,000-year-old Banaue Rice Terraces, the Manila Bulletin stands as a testament to ingenuity, resilience, and dedication—carefully built and nurtured to endure the test of time and inspire generations,” he said.

“The terraces, carved into the mountains by hand, symbolize the power of vision and persistence to sustain communities. In the same way, the Manila Bulletin has been a steadfast pillar of truth, shaping the nation’s story with integrity and commitment. Both are timeless legacies, built not only to last but to enrich and uplift those they serve.”

“Congratulations to the Manila Bulletin on 125 years of remarkable service to the nation!” Romualdez said.
The Manila Bulletin, one of the oldest newspapers in the Philippines, was founded as a four-page shipping journal on Feb. 2, 1900, before evolving into a widely respected national broadsheet.

Founded by Carson C. Taylor, a former United States Army officer and teacher from Illinois, the paper initially reported shipping and commercial information.

It then grew to cover diverse topics, but closed temporarily from 1942 to 1945 during the Japanese Occupation and again, for two months at the start of martial law in 1972.

Today, it is helmed by Basilio C. Yap as Chairman of the Board and Dr. Emil C. Yap III as President and Vice Chairman after the passing of the late philanthropist-businessman Dr. Emilio T. Yap. (With Raymund Antonio)