President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday vowed to fight fake news, saying the Philippines stands in solidarity with the International Conference of Information Commissioners (ICIC) and the entire international community in advocating for people’s right to information.
“As a nation with a robust democracy, we reaffirm our commitment to champion this basic human right. It remains indelibly etched in our fundamental law,” President Marcos said during the opening ceremony of the 14th edition of the ICIC at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.
“We value its potency to empower our people to make informed decisions to participate fully in our democratic processes, and hold their representatives accountable without fear or apprehension,” Marcos added.
The ICIC connects Information Commissioners, Ombudspersons and other bodies charged with overseeing the implementation of Access to Public Information legislation, in order to foster the protection and promotion of access to public information as a fundamental pillar to social, economic and democratic governance.
The Philippines is the first Southeast Asian country to host the conference, following Mexico (2005 and 2022), South Africa (2004 and 2019), the United Kingdom (2017 and 2006), Chile (2015), Germany (2013 and 2003), Canada (2011), Norway (2009), and New Zealand (2007).
During the event, Marcos lauded the ICIC for its efforts in advancing the people’s right to access information.
Marcos also called on all the branches of government to uphold the people’s freedom of information (FOI) as he promised to advance the campaign against misinformation and disinformation in the country.
“I reiterate our call not only to the executive branch, but to all branches of government, to genuinely uphold and give effect to the people’s freedom of information in the course of our day-to-day operations, with good faith and with openness,” Marcos said.
“Undeniably, this is to our best interest as a nation. It is a key to our pursuit of good governance, improved public services, and a more progressive and sustainable society,” he added.
The President assured that the country will continue to promote the FOI through a whole-of-nation approach, adding that the government has several initiatives under the People’s Freedom of Information (FOI) program that leverages available technology and digital platforms to serve the people.
One of these is the E-Governance initiative, which advocates for the streamlining and digitalization of the key services of various government offices and local government units (LGUs).
Marcos said the executive branch is also working with legislators for the enactment of an E-Governance Law that will provide a stronger mandate and broader reach.
Marcos also highlighted the importance of the FOI Program in advancing the campaign against misinformation and disinformation in the country.
“Like everyone here, we too recognize as a matter of principle that fake news should have no place in modern society. As part of our efforts, we will undertake a massive Media and Information Literacy Campaign, which shall be digital, multi-media, and youth-oriented,” Marcos said.
Marcos assured that the executive branch will continue to implement the FOI program through the Presidential Communications Office, adding that the program is also included in the Philippine Development Plan. (PNA)
