Manila, Philippines – President Benigno S. Aquino III is apparently upset that the prosecution team in the impeachment trial of Chief Justice Renato C. Corona is losing the publicity war in the media.
The President, at the 112th anniversary celebration of the Manila Bulletin in Intramuros, Manila last Thursday night, complained that the defense team has dominated the newspaper headlines and expressed hope the prosecution will get better publicity next time.
Aquino admitted that he reads the Manila Bulletin to calm his nerves but could not help but grumble about a headline on the alleged fishing expedition of prosecutors in Corona’s trial.
At first, Aquino commended the Manila Bulletin for its January 29 headline that highlighted the Puerto Princesa subterranean river as one of the world’s new wonders, even showing the newspaper clipping to the crowd. He said such positive news was not highlighted in other newspapers.
But the Chief Executive, who has endorsed the impeachment complaint against Corona, later complained about the February 2 headline, “Fishing Expedition: Corona lawyers slam prosecution.”
“Itong araw na ‘to, kailangan ko rin po magpakalma; nagbasa po ako ng Bulletin rin. Ang nakalagay po eh “Fishing Expedition.” Tila ho batikos doon ho sa ating mga prosecutor. Iyong kabila naman po “Corona Lawyers Slam Prosecution (Today, I needed to calm my nerves. I read the Bulletin and its headline read “Fishing Expedition.” It was a criticism against our prosecutors. In the other side, “Corona Lawyers Slam Prosecution”),” he said.
“Sabi ko, nasaan kaya dito ‘yung “Prosecution Magaling” naman?” Siguro ho bukas iyon. Noong araw ho kasi, parang kabilaang side parati nakikita natin sa Bulletin, tama po ba? (I said to myself, “Where is report that the prosecution is clever?” Maybe it will be published tomorrow. In old days, Bulletin shows both sides always),” he added.
Aquino said many people choose to read the Manila Bulletin rather than other newspapers that only increases their blood pressure.
Meanwhile, the President congratulated the Manila Bulletin on its 112th anniversary, citing its commitment to accurate and truthful reporting that sustained its credibility over the years.
Aquino appealed to the media to remain balanced and fair as part of the responsibility of having freedom of the press.
He also welcomed the media’s roles as a check and balance to the abuse of power but called on the press to highlight “positive transformations” and elevate the level of public discourse. (Genalyn D. Kabiling)
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- tempo newspaper headline may 11 2012
