Marcos elated by Philippines rank in press freedom index

MANILA, Philippines — The country’s improvement in the World Press Freedom Index by Paris-based Reporters Without Borders shows President Marcos’ commitment in upholding press freedom, Malacañang said yesterday.

The Philippines ranked 116th out of 180 countries and territories, a notable rise from 134th in 2024, according to the report released on May 2.

“Yes, definitely that’s good news. The President is delighted with the ranking of the Philippines (relating) to its upholding press freedom,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said.

“It shows that the President respects one’s rights of expression and responsible journalism,” she added.

The report also highlighted improvements in the safety and legal frameworks for Philippine media.

The country’s overall score climbed by 6.2 points to 49.57 in 2025.

This was the Philippines’ highest ranking in 21 years, Presidential Task Force on Media Security executive director Jose Torres Jr. said.

Castro said the report also showed that “the President is not gearing toward dictatorship.”

“We are seeing a free media today,” she said.