The Mindanao Independent Press Council, Inc. (MIPC) expresses its support for TV5 Mindanao correspondent Bryll Montalvo following the public remarks made by Palace Press Officer and Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro regarding his reporting.Montalvo has long been assigned to cover Mindanao, reporting on governance, politics, public safety, peace and development, and other issues of public interest.
His beat naturally includes coverage of Vice President Sara Duterte, a Mindanao-based national leader whose activities are undeniably newsworthy.As journalists, we recognize that public officials—including government spokespersons—have every right to respond to, clarify, or even criticize news reports they believe are inaccurate or unfair. Likewise, journalists have the professional duty to ask questions, verify information, and report matters of public concern without fear or favor.
However, we are concerned when criticism shifts from addressing the substance of a news report to making personal remarks about an individual journalist or questioning motives without clear evidence. Public discourse is best served when attention is focused on the facts, the reporting, and the issues, not on personal characterizations of the messenger.
We understand that Undersecretary Castro, as Palace spokesperson, is tasked with explaining and defending the position of the administration she represents. That responsibility is an important part of democratic governance. At the same time, journalists perform an equally vital constitutional role by independently covering government officials and public institutions, regardless of political affiliation.The Mindanao Independent Press Council believes that disagreements between public officials and the media should be addressed through open dialogue, factual clarification, and professional engagement.
Constructive criticism strengthens both government communication and journalism; personal attacks risk undermining the climate of mutual respect that is essential to a free and independent press.We therefore encourage all public officials to focus on the message rather than the messenger and to recognize the indispensable role journalists play in keeping the public informed. Respectful engagement with the media reinforces—not weakens—democratic institutions.
The Philippine Constitution guarantees freedom of the press, not as a privilege for journalists, but as a right of every Filipino to receive accurate, timely, and independent information. That freedom carries with it the responsibility of journalists to report truthfully, fairly, and ethically—a responsibility that members of the profession continue to uphold.The Mindanao Independent Press Council remains steadfast in defending press freedom, promoting responsible journalism, and fostering constructive dialogue between the media and public officials.
