Malacañang on Monday welcomed the Philippines’ improved ranking in the World Press Freedom Index, stressing that it serves as proof that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is "not gearing towards dictatorship."
In a press briefing on Monday, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro said Marcos was "delighted" with the country's latest ranking, noting it reflects the administration's commitment to upholding press freedom.
"It shows that the President respects one’s rights of expression and the responsible journalism," said Castro.
"So, ito po ay maganda po na naipapakita ng Pangulo na the President is not gearing towards dictatorship. Malaya po ang pamamahayag na nakikita po natin sa kasalukuyan," she added.
Castro further stated that the administration is committed to ensuring that the rights of media workers in the country are upheld and recognized, citing President Marcos’ promise made last year.
"Noon pa pong 2024 ipinangako naman po ng Pangulo and I quote, ang sabi po ng Pangulo: 'Be assured that we are doubling down on our commitment to protect our journalists and to uphold press freedom. We stand with you hand-in-hand in this fight'," Castro stated.
"So hanggang ngayon po, 2024 po iyon sinabi ng ating Pangulo, at ngayon po ay nakita ninyo po ang nagiging resulta. Paiigtingin pa po ng ating Pangulo, ng administrasyon, ang kalayaan sa pamamahayag. Asahan ninyo po iyan," she added.
The Philippines has achieved its best performance in the World Press Freedom Index in over two decades.
In the latest report by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), the country climbed to 116th place out of 180 nations—an 18-spot jump from its 134th ranking in 2024.
