EDITORIAL: Truth First

THE appointment of veteran broadcast journalist Jay Ruiz as the new head of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) comes at a critical time when misinformation and disinformation continue to threaten public discourse.

His vow to intensify the government’s fight against fake news is both a necessary and welcome commitment.

However, ensuring that the PCO becomes a truly credible and effective source of information will require more than just pronouncements—it demands action, consistency, and transparency.

Ruiz is the fourth PCO chief under the Marcos administration, a turnover rate that raises concerns about stability within the office. For the PCO to fulfill its mandate, it must develop a long-term communication strategy that prioritizes factual, timely, and accessible information.

Beyond countering fake news, the office must also build public trust by ensuring that government messaging is not only clear but also devoid of political spin.

The inclusion of lawyer and media personality Clarissa Castro as PCO undersecretary and “Palace Press Officer” adds another dimension to the administration’s communication efforts.

Her push for a firmer stance against disinformation and her proposal to establish a separate regulatory body to monitor online content reflect the growing concerns over social media’s role in spreading false narratives.

However, any regulatory measures must strike a delicate balance between curbing disinformation and safeguarding freedom of speech. Overregulation, especially through measures such as requiring social media platforms to secure a legislative franchise, could set a dangerous precedent that may stifle online discourse and lead to unintended consequences.

The challenge now for Ruiz and the PCO is to prove that their commitment to truth is not selective. Will they be just as eager to combat fake news when it comes from administration allies? Will they address misinformation propagated by government-affiliated sources with the same vigor as they do opposition narratives?

If the fight against fake news is to be credible, it must be impartial and grounded in facts, not political convenience.

Moreover, the promise of monthly press conferences with President Marcos is a step toward greater transparency, but its success will depend on whether these briefings allow for genuine media scrutiny or merely serve as controlled messaging platforms. The public deserves more than pre-scripted answers; they deserve accountability.

In the end, combating fake news is not just the government’s responsibility—it is a collective effort that involves media institutions, social media platforms, and the public. But if the administration is serious about its commitment to truth, it must start by leading with example: communicating openly, admitting mistakes when necessary, and ensuring that the PCO remains a beacon of factual and unbiased information.