MANILA -- Throughout 2019, the British Embassy in Manila would be
leading Britain's global campaign on media freedom in the Philippines.
"In the coming months, you will see us in the Embassy very active
on this issue," British Ambassador to Manila Daniel Pruce told reporters
during a reception at his residence in Makati on Thursday.
"You will see us standing up for media freedom where we see it
under threat. You will see us sharing our experience of how free media is an
essential element of any genuine democracy," he added.
Among the activities lined up in 2019 are lectures on media literacy,
and events focused on supporting professional journalism and encouraging
exchange of views on media regulation.
The envoy said 2018 was one of the "deadliest years ever for
journalists," where at least 348 media workers were detained, and 80
killed, “including six from the Philippines.”
Around the world, Pruce noted that journalists and media organizations
are targeted and harassed, "often under the thin veneer of due process.’
He noted that supporting a free media "means countering the
incoming tides of disinformation."
"While it has never been easier to publish and receive
information, it has also never been easier to spread lies and conspiracy
theories. So the professional standards of courageous, objective, fact-based
journalism have never been more important," Pruce said.
In July, the UK will be hosting an international conference in London,
which seeks to gather countries and individuals to mobilize a consensus behind
the protection of journalists. (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora /PNA)
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