In celebration of National Press Freedom Day, Press Secretary Trixie Cruz Angeles on Tuesday assured that press freedom is guaranteed under the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
“The administration, under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., recognizes and respects press freedom in the country, as guaranteed by the Constitution,” Angeles wrote in a social media post.
Angeles said the Office of the Press Secretary is joining the entire country in commemorating the National Press Freedom Day, which coincides with the birth anniversary of Marcelo H. del Pilar, who is considered the “father of Philippine Journalism.”
She assured that Malacañang would work collaboratively with media organizations to protect and uphold the rights of journalists.
Republic Act 11699 inked by former President Rodrigo Duterte declared 30 August of every year as National Press Freedom Day in honor of Del Pilar.
Del Pilar, who wrote under the pen name “Plaridel,” was born on 30 August 1890.
Under RA 11699, 30 August of every year is declared a working holiday.
The law mandates all government agencies and instrumentalities, as well as the private sector, to engage and participate in the meaningful observance and celebration of National Press Freedom Day.
The directive covers the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, government-owned and -controlled corporations, and the local government units.
It likewise mandated the Department of Education, the Commission on Higher Education, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to lead public and private schools at all levels in organizing activities on the importance of the press and their rights and social responsibilities.