PCP expresses serious concern on Senator Rodante Marcoleta's remarks against the media

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

The Photojournalists’ Center of the Philippines (PCP) expresses serious concern over Sen. Rodante Marcoleta’s remarks describing members of the media as “bayaran” or paid hacks during a Senate hearing on the alleged flood control scandal.

Such sweeping and unsubstantiated accusations undermine public trust in legitimate journalism and contribute to an environment where media workers may be exposed to harassment, intimidation, and threats.

Criticism of the press is part of democratic discourse and should always be welcomed when it is grounded in facts. However, public officials who make serious allegations against journalists have a responsibility to present evidence, not rely on broad and inflammatory claims that malign an entire profession.

PCP urges Sen. Marcoleta to substantiate his allegations and identify the journalists he believes have violated professional and ethical standards. If he possesses evidence of wrongdoing, he should present it before the appropriate bodies and allow due process to take its course.

At a time when the whole country continues to face challenges, elected officials should help foster an environment where journalists can perform their duties safely and independently. Public office must be used to uphold democratic freedoms and accountability, not to cast suspicion on the very institutions tasked with informing the public and scrutinizing those in power.