Philippine media under pressure as Marcos Jr courts influencers

Journalists came under increased pressure during the Duterte administration. His successor, who rode to power on the back of social media, is expected to take a similar approach [File: Aaron Favila/AP Photo]

Manila, Philippines – Journalists warn the new administration of Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr is set to take the same hard line against media critics as his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte, after attacks on press freedom grew during the transition of presidential power.

In June, more than two dozen sites were blocked and accused of having links to “Communist-Terrorist Groups”. Two media organisations were among those targeted by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) – independent news site Pinoy Weekly, and Bulatlat, the country’s longest-running online publication.