New Guide Enhances Ethical Reporting on Children
Every child’s story deserves to be shared with care, without risking their safety or dignity. This is the core aim of the revised Guide for Media Practitioners on the Reporting and Coverage of Children. The updated guide was introduced during a forum on May 22 by a council under the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
This guide equips journalists, content creators, and social media influencers with ethical tools to report on children responsibly. It emphasizes protecting children’s rights and well-being while telling their stories.
“The purpose of this guideline is to create a good image and impression of children. Media—whether print, radio, television, or digital—has the power to influence how the public views children,” said a senior official from the council in Filipino.
Scope and voluntary Nature of the Guide
The guide covers both traditional and digital media platforms. It applies to journalists, social media personalities, and content creators who report on children, including those needing special protection.
The official clarified that the guide is not compulsory but encourages media professionals to adopt its principles. “You will not be forced to follow it, but we encourage you to consider it for the benefit of the child. At the same time, it does not infringe upon the freedom of the press or your rights to expression,” the source explained.
Key Principles for Child-Centered Reporting
The guide is built on five core principles: respecting children’s privacy, honoring their agency, encouraging meaningful participation, ensuring dignified treatment, and handling sensitive stories with care. It also includes practical tips and self-assessment questions to help media workers evaluate their coverage.
Additionally, the guide offers special recommendations for reporting on children in difficult circumstances. These include children with disabilities, abuse survivors, those in conflict with the law, those in alternative care, and children living with HIV.
“These are the questions you should ask yourself when reporting on matters not covered by the guidelines. As you work on your article or edit your video, ask yourself: Should I edit it further? Should I publish it now? Should I take it down?” the official advised.
Non-Penal Nature and Legal Boundaries
Media outlets will not face penalties for failing to follow the guide unless they break existing laws like the Data Privacy Act. “Our media guideline is meant to serve as a guide for everyone. It should have a persuasive effect. It is not mandatory unless, for instance, you violate the Data Privacy Act,” the source added.
This guide aims to support ethical storytelling that protects children while respecting press freedom. It encourages media practitioners to consider the well-being of children as they share their stories with the public.
For more news and updates on ethical media practices, visit Filipinokami.com.