Media Groups Back Jay Ruiz for PCO Secretary
Three major media organizations have called on President Marcos to keep Jay Ruiz as the secretary of the Presidential Communications Office amid the current Cabinet reshuffle. The Justice Reporters’ Organization (JUROR), SOCSKSARGEN Press Club, and the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI) voiced strong support for Ruiz, highlighting his professionalism, journalistic integrity, and ability to lead government communications in today’s demanding environment.
These groups stressed the importance of having a leader who understands both media and government, especially when the public craves transparency and accountability. “Many of us have worked alongside Mr. Ruiz during his time in broadcast journalism. He earned our respect not only for his professionalism and credibility but also for his instinctive understanding of the role of media in a democracy,” sources noted.
Jay Ruiz’s Unique Qualifications in Media and Government
JUROR praised Ruiz’s long-standing commitment to fairness, clarity, and the public’s right to know. They emphasized that his combined experience in newsrooms and government offices equips him well to manage public communication effectively in a fast-paced and often polarized information landscape. “In today’s media landscape, where facts are constantly challenged, having someone like Secretary Ruiz—who speaks the language of both government and media—is a tremendous asset to the administration and to public discourse,” local leaders said.
The SOCSKSARGEN Press Club also released a Manifesto of Support urging President Marcos to maintain Ruiz as the head of the Presidential Communications Office. They highlighted his broadcast expertise and extensive media connections as vital tools for promoting responsible journalism and bridging the gap between the government and the public.
“With such qualifications and competency that befit Secretary Ruiz, the administration of PBBM is assured of an effective and responsive communications arm,” the group added.
Continuity in Leadership Amid Political Noise
Nelson Santos, president of PAPI, stressed the critical need for continuity in government communications, especially during politically turbulent times. “While we fully respect the ongoing evaluation being conducted on Secretary Ruiz, we believe that changing the guards in the middle of the ballgame does not bode well for the administration—especially at a time when coherent, credible communication is most needed,” he said.
Santos further acknowledged Ruiz’s dedication to fairness, truth, and facilitating the free flow of accurate information. He also warned about the negative perception that frequent leadership changes in the PCO might create. Ruiz is noted as the fourth press secretary since 2022, appointed in February this year to replace Cesar Chavez.
The media organizations’ united stance reflects a broader call for stability and integrity in government communications to better serve the Filipino public.
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