PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recently acknowledged the heroism of journalists in celebrating World Press Freedom Day.
In his message, the President recognized the bravery of journalists in producing unbiased reports.
The President also commended the promotion of truth and transparency in the country.
“In Bagong Pilipinas, we celebrate our journalists for their courage in conveying unbiased reports, and we rely on them to continue being the stalwarts of truth and transparency,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. stated.
However, for Atty. Harry Roque, also a TV host on SMNI, the President’s words were nothing but a joke or excessive flattery.
Roque stated that the executive’s statement was far from the truth because the SMNI was placed under indefinite suspension during his term.
Roque questioned that if Marcos Jr. admires the media as the fourth estate, why did he allow the suspension and embarrassment of SMNI, the only TV network that helped him win during the elections?
“Our only reaction to that is, it’s a joke,” (accompanied by laughter) Atty. Harry Roque, TV Host, SMNI Pulso ng Bayan said.
According to Roque, a human rights lawyer, Filipinos won’t be fooled anymore.
And that SMNI will continue its mission to reveal the truth about what’s happening in the Marcos Jr. administration.
“What you’re saying contradicts what you did to SMNI. Your only ally during the election, you closed it, you revoked its franchise. At least your cousin, the Speaker, and his allies in the House of Representatives,” Atty. Roque added.
Roque further stated that other TV networks would face the same fate as SMNI if they reported against the administration.
“Joke, joke, a joke on free expression. Oh my, we won’t be fooled anymore because we know SMNI is evidence. (Is it evidence?) It’s not just evidence, it’s a joke!” Roque stated.
Roque also foresaw that other TV networks would experience what happened to SMNI if they reported against the administration.
“Well, everyone will face that eventually. So, journalists, if you won’t stand up for your rights, why are you still in that profession? Or are you all just going to be about entertainment if all you want is a franchise even though you’re not fulfilling your duty to uphold the truth, especially the truth about government failures and abuses! Because that’s why we’re here, to watch over the government,” he said.
