Responsible Journalism - My letter to the Philippine Star

Greetings to The Employees of the Philippine Star


First of all, I would like to extend my condolences to Mr. Soliven's family and to his colleagues as well. It is such a great loss for our country that one of its most respected journalists passed away. But come to think of it, his passing should serve as an inspiration to us Filipinos. Every time I get a copy of the Star, I always look forward in reading his column. His insights and other facts give me daily doses of information that I cannot get from other broadsheets. He was my inspiration in writing opinions about current events. There was one time I got to shake his hand during one of his speaking engagements in the Ateneo about responsible journalism.

At present, I get mad at journalists who throw various accusations to the First family about their alleged corruption and abuse of authority. Even congressmen joined the ruckus. No wonder libel suits are filed by the FG. It takes simple logic why the FG is doing this. Like any other man, he just wants to protect his family. If these journalists don't have solid proof about their allegations, they might as well write something else. They always say they are the vanguards of truth and that people have the right to know, then they must prove it. Problem is these journalists always claim that the First Family does not allow them to see their bank accounts. What is there to see when there is none? The German bank even issued a certification that they do not have bank accounts in their care.

The burden of proof lies with the journalists, if they cannot prove it, it is good for nothing. Giving scathing remarks and unfounded allegations is not journalism, it is already bordering to unjust vexation and well, libel. This is where Mr. Soliven deviated and a true testament of him being a real journalist. He does not concoct stories. he wrote columns but I never read anything malicious. He did not thrash politicians and other people for that matter. That is because he does not shoot when he does not have the bullets to back it up. For me, that's the real trait of a responsible journalist. We are aware that journalists must speak the truth but please do it Right! It is after all for all our sake.

Again, I thank and salute you, Mr. Soliven. You will surely be missed by everyone.



Thank you and more power.