Adversarial media, government ties vital in a democracy, says Coloma

MANILA, Philippines — Amid incoming President Rodrigo Duterte's snub, the media is expected to maintain an adversarial relationship with government, President Aquino's communications chief said Wednesday.

Presidential Communications Secretary Herminio "Sonny" Coloma Jr. said the press's critical approach toward the government, headed by the president, is vital in a democracy.

"Pwede paring igalang ninyo ang isa't isa, that you really hold contradictory views, dahil 'yan naman ang sense ng demokrasya," Coloma said. "Hindi masama magkaroon ng iba't ibang paraan."

Coloma said the government is an institution for governance while the media or the fourth estate is the eye and voice of citizens. Both institutions essentially serve the same public.

"Don't lose sight of the bigger national interest despite different interests," Coloma said at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum. — with Rosette Adel

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