Ang Pahayagan

MANILA, Philippines — Several journalism organizations have condemned Senator Rodante Marcoleta over his remarks accusing members of the media of being “paid hacks” during a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on the alleged flood control scandal on June 4.

In separate statements, the Filipino Freelance Journalists’ Guild (FFJG), the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP), and the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) criticized Marcoleta’s comments, describing them as unfounded and harmful to the credibility and safety of journalists.

The FFJG said Marcoleta made a sweeping accusation against the profession without identifying specific individuals or presenting evidence. The group warned that such statements could undermine public trust in journalists and potentially affect the safety of media practitioners, particularly freelance reporters who often work without institutional support.

The organization also expressed solidarity with members of the Senate media and other journalists nationwide, emphasizing that freelance journalists adhere to ethical standards and work to report accurately and objectively.

FOCAP likewise condemned Marcoleta’s remarks, saying the allegations were made without proof and failed to meet the standards of fairness, accountability, and responsibility expected from public officials. The group said criticism of the media is legitimate when supported by facts, but broad attacks on journalists could weaken public trust and informed public discourse.

The organization underscored the importance of an independent press, particularly amid the spread of misinformation and disinformation, and said journalists play a critical role in verifying facts and helping the public understand issues affecting society.

Meanwhile, the NUJP joined journalists covering the Senate in denouncing what it described as attacks against the media. The group said Marcoleta’s statements appeared intended to undermine public confidence in journalism amid ongoing coverage of political disputes and allegations of corruption.

According to the NUJP, journalists have a responsibility to seek the truth and hold public officials accountable regardless of political affiliation. The organization maintained that the media’s primary loyalty is to the public and not to any political group or interest.

The groups called on public officials to support the work of journalists in promoting transparency and accountability rather than making unsubstantiated accusations against the press.

Marcoleta made the remarks during a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on Thursday while discussing media coverage related to the flood control controversy. The senator later said he did not intend to generalize his criticism to all members of the media.

TOP 📸 : Reporters cover the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on flood control projects on June 4, 2026. During the hearing, Senator Rodante Marcoleta described members of the media as “bayaran,” or paid hacks. Contributed photo via PCP website