NUJP Warns Against Compensation for Favorable Coverage
The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) issued a strong reminder to media practitioners regarding the dangers of accepting any form of compensation for favorable coverage. The NUJP emphasized that such practices threaten the core principle of editorial independence, which is crucial to maintaining public trust in journalism.
According to officials familiar with the issue, the acceptance of fees for positive media portrayal deeply undermines the credibility of the profession. This practice fuels the damaging narrative that journalism can be bought and sold, thereby weakening its vital role as a watchdog against corruption in both government and private sectors.
Context of the Controversy: Allegations Involving Pasig Mayor
The statement from the NUJP follows social media remarks by Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto. He suggested that broadcasters Korina Sanchez and Julius Babao were paid to conduct interviews with Curlee and Sarah Discaya, his opponents in the recent midterm elections. Community members close to the broadcasters have firmly denied any unethical behavior or transactions related to the interviews.
In response to the controversy, NUJP urged the media community to revisit and reaffirm their commitment to the ethical standards outlined in the Journalists’ Code of Ethics as well as the NUJP’s Ethical Guide for Filipino Journalists. “Difficult as it is, we cannot take pride in calling ourselves journalists without adhering to the basic standards and guiding principles of the profession,” the union stated.
Ethical Challenges and Industry Realities
While acknowledging that solicitation of payments is a common but troubling practice in the media industry, sources noted that it often stems from economic hardship. Many journalists reportedly earn minimum wage or less, making survival a daily challenge. This economic reality sometimes leads to ethical compromises, such as seeking advertisers for salaries or accepting public relations work to supplement income.
NUJP officials stressed the urgent need for media companies to provide fair compensation to their staff. “The media community has long been aware of these conditions and the dangers they pose to the ethical practice of the profession. It has been working tirelessly to address these,” they added.
Public Works Contracts and Broader Implications
Adding complexity to the issue, two companies owned by the Discayas were reported to be among the top recipients of approximately P100 billion in flood control contracts from the Department of Public Works and Highways. This information has heightened public scrutiny over the alleged payments to journalists in exchange for coverage.
Mayor Sotto described the alleged payment to journalists as “shameful and violative” of the code of ethics, though he acknowledged it may not be technically illegal. Meanwhile, representatives of Korina Sanchez have dismissed the accusations as clear cases of cyberlibel. Babao himself characterized his interview with the Discayas as a straightforward profile feature highlighting their journey from humble beginnings to successful entrepreneurs.
Reaffirming Journalism’s Role and Integrity
In light of these developments, media practitioners are called upon to uphold the integrity of their profession by strictly adhering to ethical guidelines. The NUJP’s message serves as a vital reminder that journalism’s strength lies in its independence and commitment to truth, free from undue influence or financial incentives.
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