The Strengths and Weaknesses of Philippine Media

Philippine media, like the Filipino nation as a whole, is still a work in progress. It has developed rapidly and diversely throughout its short history but still need a lot of improvements on its various flaws. On a light note, the mass media must be credited for its strengths in the practice of ethics, freedom of the press, and dedication to serve the Filipino people. The media has been instrumental in preparing and informing the public of relevant news, such as weather forecasts, coverage of the recently concluded Impeachment Trial, and updates on the territorial disputes between the Philippines and other Asian countries. In fulfilling its most prominent role as a watchdog, the media also is to be commended, as it has been successful in aiding the uncovering of various corrupt acts, such as the NBN ZTE Deal and Hello Garci scandal. However, there remain notable weaknesses in the Philippine media. One is its tendency to sensationalize issues that could affect society negatively, just to attract viewers and readers. Once, there was a poll question in TV Patrol that asked the public if they want an all-out war in Mindanao. The violent connotation of the text poll unwittingly encourages the viewers to rage war when in fact, the government is not hinting at war and actually opposes the idea. The media in this instance clearly has gone beyond the facts, sensationalizing a sensitive issue that could hamper the ongoing peace talks and incite contempt, resulting to a worse misunderstanding with Mindanao. Another weakness that could be considered is the lack of regulation of the seemingly limitless freedom of the press. In 2010 during the hostage taking of the Hong Kong nationals at the Quirino Grandstand, the media had unrestricted coverage of the whole incident, raising concerns that it could have compromised and interfered with the rescue process. The media must already be aware of their limitations and responsibilities and not wait for government intervention but practice self-regulation when the situation calls for it. To better serve the Filipino society, the Philippine mass media must faithfully adhere to the constitutional rights and responsibilities they are entitled to. Media practitioners must also practice unbiased, critical, and ethical broadcasting of information, with public interest as their foremost goal. The government should support the media as well through implementing laws that enhance their protection so that they can be more effective in their work.