During a recent conversation with a journalist, BTS was offered what many would consider a professional courtesy: candid observations about the local media landscape, cultural nuances, and the realities of dealing with Philippine journalists.

Among the points raised was a frank but fair remark — that some officials from his embassy had, on occasion, behaved in a manner many would describe as undiplomatic in their dealings with the press.

Rather than receiving the comment in the constructive spirit intended, BTS reportedly took offense, insisting such feedback was inappropriate.

A curious reaction from someone in diplomacy, where criticism and candid observations are hardly foreign concepts.

Seasoned diplomats know that honest feedback  —especially from those who regularly engage with embassies — is not an affront but an opportunity to better understand one’s posting.

Still, perhaps sensitivity is not unique to BTS.

The embassy in question has earned a reputation among journalists for treating follow-up questions after press briefings as optional inconveniences. Clarifications sought by media are often met with silence, as if the questions had disappeared into a diplomatic black hole.

Its former ambassador, meanwhile, left behind his own memorable reputation. At one diplomatic gathering, the envoy reportedly asked the host ambassador why a journalist was present at the event — despite the journalist being an invited guest and personal friend of the host.

The host ambassador, said to be visibly taken aback, reminded the envoy of precisely that.

Several ambassadors within earshot were likewise stunned by the condescending remark, noting the envoy’s apparent belief that he had standing to police a guest list that was not his own.

Inside the embassy, whispers of high turnover among local staff have only added to questions about the mission’s internal culture.

Then again, embassies often take their cue from those at the top.

If BTS hopes to survive his posting with dignity intact, he may wish to learn that diplomacy requires more than rank and credentials.

It also requires the maturity to accept honest feedback without behaving as though one has suffered a personal affront.

Tant pis.

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Dave Gomez urged citizens, media partners, and stakeholders to rely on official briefings and verified information disseminated to the public.

“Let us work together to prevent the manipulation of critical energy information for personal or political gain,” Gomez said in a statement.

“To every Filipino on social media: stop and think before you post or hit “share.” In these difficult times, sharing unverified posts can cause public harm. So, always verify information through official government channels before you spread it,” the PCO secretary added.

“In light of the current energy landscape, we warn anyone who deliberately fabricates stories and spreads fake news online to exploit the situation that they will be held to account to the fullest extent of the law,” Gomez said.

Gomez reminded “users of social-media platforms that publishing “false news” is punishable by up to six months imprisonment under Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code. When committed online, the penalty is doubled under the Cybercrime Prevention Act.”

The PCO acting chief noted that, “Spreading fake news and disinformation undermines public trust, destabilizes our economy, and threatens the welfare of every Filipino during this time of energy emergency.”

Gomez added that, “There will be zero tolerance for those who maliciously and deliberately commit these acts to advance their personal or political vested interest.”

“Any attempt to mislead the public about energy security, supply, or pricing to sow confusion will be treated as a serious offense. Our anti-fake-news desk, in coordination with the Department of Justice, will file charges against those who flagrantly disseminate deceptive information or manipulate markets,” Gomez noted.

“We are intensifying monitoring of social media and information ecosystems to detect and counter deliberate disinformation campaigns. This effort is conducted in close collaboration with our partners in the Oplan Kontra Fake News initiative of the PCO,” he added.

The PCO acting chief said the government remains steadfast in ensuring transparent, accurate, and timely communication about energy developments.

“Our ultimate obligation is to safeguard the stability of energy supply, protect consumers, and uphold democratic processes,” Gomez said.

The PCO acting chief added that the PCO will continue to deliver accurate, timely updates through verified platforms.

“We call on all citizens to reject disinformation, uphold truth, and stand united in resilience,” Gomez noted.

The Trade & Connect forum, titled “Forecasting 2026: UK-PH Economic Perspectives,” is being held with The Philippine Business and News as media partner.

The event comes as British investment in the Philippines has reached ₱45.44 billion, signaling continued foreign interest, even as overall foreign direct investment (FDI) declined in 2025 and governance concerns, including issues linked to flood control projects, weigh on investor sentiment.

BCCP Executive Vice Chair Chris Nelson said global headwinds, including US tariffs and geopolitical uncertainties, are reshaping trade flows but also creating openings for the Philippines.

He said in a recent interview that, “I think having the Philippines join CPTPP, of course they have to accede, would allow them to access that market and be much more involved with the UK, along with of course the current JETCO. And I would see growth in trade moving forward.”

The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) is seen as a potential driver of deeper trade integration, alongside ongoing cooperation under the UK-Philippines Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO).

Nelson also highlighted the proposed Cybersecurity Act as key to strengthening investor confidence.

He said, “Well, I think it’s very important that the Cybersecurity Act in this form be passed this year… I think passing the Cybersecurity Act will make companies more conscious and increase protection.”

He added that reform momentum must remain urgent.

“The Philippines lives in a very competitive environment. We have got to keep up with what other countries are doing and also give it a sense of urgency,” he said.

Discussions at the forum will cover fiscal strategy, priority public spending, tax and legislative reforms under the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC), and the evolving UK-PH trade relationship.

To join the event, you may register through this link: https://britcham.org.ph/events/trade-and-connect-forecasting-2026/

Mr. T shocked fellow advocates when he decided to polish the tarnished image of a government  official (Mayor B.S.) whose moral halo has long been slipping.

The plan: a PR rehab.

The result: a PR relapse.

As Mayor B.S.’s controversies flooded social media and newsrooms, Mr. T’s messaging flopped faster than a press release with no pickup. The “damage control” only drew more damage.

When the backlash got too loud, Mr. T. reportedly went on a digital detox of his own making by unfriending and blocking journalists who dared post or publish anything critical of Mayor B.S. But in the age of screenshots and group chats, such moves don’t stay private for long.

“Even when you’re defending a client, you don’t burn bridges,” one veteran reporter quipped. “Media’s job is to tell the truth. If that offends you, maybe PR isn’t your calling.”

The episode has since become a case study in how advocacy meets irony. For someone who built a reputation on transparency, ghosting the press is a no-no.

Lesson learned? In crisis comms, credibility beats control — and unfriending the media doesn’t delete the truth.

Lapid, known to his listeners as Ka Percy, was gunned down on October 3, 2022, near his home in Las Piñas City. While his assassin has been convicted, the masterminds behind the crime remain unidentified—leaving justice painfully incomplete.

Mamamayang Liberal Representative Leila de Lima, herself once the target of political persecution, said Ka Percy’s voice continues to haunt those who prefer silence.

“A fearless voice who held the powerful to account, and a journalist who never flinched from exposing wrongdoing. His sharp commentaries spoke directly to the conscience of the nation. His words disturbed those who preferred silence and submission,” she said in a video message.

De Lima lamented the state of press freedom, noting, “Sa tuwing pinatatahimik ang isang mamamahayag, unti-unting nauupos ang liwanag ng demokrasya (Every silenced journalist slowly dims the light of democracy).”

Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, chair of the Senate Committee on Justice, underscored the role of media as guardians of democracy.

“Kinitil ng mga salarin ang tinig ng isang malaya, makabuluhan, at makatotohanang komentaryo, lalo na sa pagpapanagot sa mga nakaupo sa pwesto at pang-aabuso sa pwesto (The perpetrators killed the voice of a free, relevant, and truthful commentary, especially in holding to account people in power and those who abuse power),” he said.

Pangilinan said that remembering Ka Percy is also a call to action. “Buong puso nating suportahan at ipagtanggol ang kalayaan sa pamamahayag, at tiyakin na walang tinig kailanman ang patatahimikin ng takot o ng dahas. Habang nagiging mailap ang hustisya sa pagtugis sa mga mastermind sa pagpaslang kay Ka Percy, patuloy nating isulong ang kanyang tinig: Harapin ang mga katotohanan, labanan ang katiwalian sa ating lipunan, at panagutin ang mga maysala at may kasalanan sa bayan.”

(“Let’s wholeheartedly support and defend the freedom of journalists, and ensure that no voice is ever silenced by fear or violence. While justice for the mastermind in the killing of Ka Percy remains elusive, let’s continue to advance his voice: Confront the truth, fight corruption in our society, and make accountable wrongdoers and have sinned against the country.”)

For many, Ka Percy’s warnings still ring true. Days before his death, he warned that the Duterte family posed the biggest threat to the Marcos administration. His prophetic words gained new resonance as political turmoil involving the Dutertes continues to ripple through the country.

De Lima urged journalists and citizens alike to keep Percy’s fire alive: “Today, Percy lives on. In the courage of journalists who carry the torch. In every truth-seeker who dares ask difficult questions. And in the hearts of Filipinos who believe that silence must never win.”

As family, colleagues, and supporters lit candles in his memory, Ka Percy’s own words echoed back: “Ang pagsasabi ng katotohanan ay hindi katapangan. Ito ay tungkulin (Speaking the truth is not courage, it is duty).”

Finland as new co-chair of the Media Freedom Coalition (MFC) says it will focus on women in journalism and media education.

At a dinner reception in Manila Wednesday, Finnish Ambassador Saija Nurminen said that Finland’s formally assumption of the MFC co-chairmanship alongside Germany reinforces its longstanding commitment to media freedom and human rights.

“It doesn’t come [as] a surprise to anyone who knows anything about Finland that we will focus particularly on women journalists,” Nurminen said.

“But also we would like to try to strengthen media literacy—that is another baby of ours—and we’ll try to do something with that as well,” she added.

The Media Freedom Coalition is a global alliance of 51 countries that supports journalists at risk, advocates for free and independent media, and works closely with legal experts and civil society groups to uphold press freedom around the world.

The event brought together diplomatic allies and media practitioners, including German Ambassador Dr. Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke, Canadian Ambassador David Hartman, and Ukrainian Ambassador Yuliia Fediv, as well as journalists from THEPHILBIZNEWS, Rappler, Inquirer.net, Philippine Star, and ABS-CBN News.

The intimate gathering also became a venue for dialogue on the Philippines’ current media environment, with participants exchanging ideas on how Finland can steer its MFC role effectively while upholding journalist safety and democratic values.

Ambassador Nurminen did not shy away from addressing the challenges journalists face in the Philippines, which continues to be considered one of the most dangerous places in the world for members of the press.

This assessment aligns with a recent statement from UN Special Rapporteur Irene Khan, who described the Philippines as “one of the most dangerous countries in the world for journalists.” According to UNESCO, 117 journalists have been killed in the country over the past 30 years, with 81 of those cases remain unsolved.

Finland’s new role in the MFC also coincides with its 2025 Chairpersonship of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), a role it intends to use to further human rights advocacy, particularly in support of Ukraine.

As part of its OSCE chairmanship, Finland hosted a commemorative conference on July 31 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act and reaffirm its relevance in today’s geopolitical and human rights challenges.

A milestone in this regard is the Helsinki Final Act, signed in 1975 by 35 countries, including the US, Canada, the Soviet Union, and all European states (except Albania). The agreement laid the foundation for post–Cold War diplomacy by committing signatories to respect human rights, sovereign borders, peaceful conflict resolution, and the right to self-determination. It remains a cornerstone of Finland’s foreign policy and multilateral engagement.

“And [it is important for] fundamental rights to have freedom of speech. For us, we also tie that to comprehensive security, [which is] a concept that is very dear to us in Finland,” Nurminen said.

The complaint was formally submitted on Friday before the Manila Prosecutor’s Office with legal support from the Movement Against Disinformation (MAD), a civil society organization that promotes truth in digital spaces. Tarriela is seeking over ₱1 million in damages.

In his statement, Commodore Tarriela described the move as “a necessary response to a series of baseless, malicious, and deeply personal online attacks that have targeted not only my private life but also my official role as Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea.”

Among the false claims circulated by Sasot, according to the complaint, are allegations that Tarriela received a $4 million “talent fee” from the United States, financial support from House Speaker Martin Romualdez, and accusations of academic dishonesty at the Philippine Military Academy—charges he flatly denies as entirely without merit.

“While I fully respect the role of free speech in a democratic society, that freedom does not extend to the willful spread of disinformation, personal defamation, or efforts to erode public confidence through falsehoods,” Tarriela said.

He said that the complaint is not only a personal legal recourse but also a message in defense of public servants “who silently endure online abuse and misrepresentation.”

“Let this serve as a reminder: freedom of expression must always be anchored in truth, responsibility, and respect,” he added.

In its separate statement, MAD identified Sasot—also known as Allan Troy Rogando Sasot—as the source of multiple defamatory posts published on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) between July and October 2023. These posts, the group said, falsely imply Tarriela’s involvement in bribery, corruption, and misconduct.

“This conduct is not protected speech,” MAD said. “It is libelous, harmful, and unlawful. Those responsible must be held legally accountable.”

MAD further noted that Tarriela’s visibility in communicating the Philippines’ position on the West Philippine Sea has made him a target of what it described as “organized online disinformation campaigns” seeking to undermine national institutions.

“The fight against disinformation is not just about protecting reputations,” the group added. “It is about defending truth, justice, and democratic integrity. No one should be harassed or defamed for faithfully performing their duty.”

The case highlights the increasing role of credible public communication amid geopolitical tension and the broader risks posed by unchecked disinformation in the digital age.

With digital creators increasingly shaping narratives, influencing opinions, and leading social movements, the workshop underscores the growing recognition of content creation as a force for civic leadership and community impact in Southeast Asia.

According to a US Embassy media release, the event, dubbed “Creators Co-Lab: YSEALI Bootcamp for Digital Creators,” aims to sharpen participants’ digital storytelling skills while expanding their networks.

Sessions will dive into pressing issues and opportunities in today’s online landscape, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, intellectual property, and brand development.

U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said she has high hopes for the impact of the workshop. “We are thrilled to support Southeast Asia’s vibrant community of content creators. These digital innovators are revolutionizing how we stay informed and connected,” she said.

Participants will also visit the Manila offices of major U.S. tech companies such as Microsoft and Meta to get a behind-the-scenes look at global innovation.

Filipino journalist and digital media advocate Jacque Manabat, one of the event’s featured mentors, encouraged participants to think beyond viral videos and trending hashtags. “You are not just creating content. You are bridging connections. Your story and creativity matter,” she said during the virtual orientation held April 6.

Ten of the selected content creators hail from the Philippines, joining peers from other ASEAN countries in this intensive bootcamp designed to elevate both reach and responsibility in the digital world.

The workshop is implemented by the Out of the Box Media Literacy Initiative, in collaboration with the U.S. Mission to ASEAN and with funding from the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines.

Beyond the bootcamp, participants will join the prestigious YSEALI and U.S. exchange alumni networks, opening doors to unique opportunities such as leadership training, seed funding, and international grants.

Launched in 2013, YSEALI is the U.S. government’s flagship program for strengthening leadership and regional cooperation among Southeast Asians under the age of 35, empowering youth in civic engagement, good governance, education, economic development, and environmental stewardship.

THEPHILBIZNEWS and Hotel Okura Manila hosted an unforgettable evening at Embassy Night – Year 4, where diplomats, business leaders, and community figures gathered to celebrate the strengthening ties between Japan and the Philippines.

The social was highlighted by a heartfelt speech from Ambassador Kazuya Endo of Japan, who shared his thoughts on the flourishing Japan-Philippines relationship and the importance of cultural exchange.

In his speech, Ambassador Endo drew a striking parallel between the full bloom of Japan’s famous sakura (cherry blossoms) and the growing partnership between the two nations.

“Sakura, or cherry blossoms, are now in full bloom in many parts of Japan,” he said. “I am happy to say that Japan-Philippines friendship and cooperation are also in full bloom, as is often referred to as our Golden Age.”

However, he was quick to note one key difference: unlike the fleeting nature of the cherry blossoms, the friendship between Japan and the Philippines is everlasting.

“While the full bloom period of the Sakura is short, and in several weeks’ time, Sakura flowers will all fall, the Philippines-Japan friendship will last for long. It will never fall,” he said.

Ambassador Endo said Japan is a strong partner in the Philippines’ development, with key initiatives like the Metro Manila Subway and North-South Commuter Railway projects, which are poised to boost connectivity and economic growth.

He also touched on Japan’s increased involvement in the Philippines’ defense and security sectors, noting the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), which facilitates joint exercises and disaster relief efforts between the Philippines and Japan.

Beyond infrastructure and security, the ambassador acknowledged the growing presence of Japanese businesses in the Philippines, from automobile giants like Toyota and Mitsubishi to retail chains like Uniqlo and Daiso.

These companies have become beloved household names, offering everything from fashion to furniture, and even authentic Japanese cuisine. “Japanese food chains such as Botejyu, Marugame Udon, and Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu are now accessible to Filipinos, bringing a taste of Japan to your tables,” he said.

In addition, Ambassador Endo invited guests to savor fresh Japanese strawberries now available in local supermarkets, declaring them “matamis at masarap (sweet and delicious)” and urging everyone to try them when they have the chance.

The ambassador also shared exciting news about the opening of the Japanese Visa Center on April 7, promising an easier visa application process for Filipino travelers.

“We hope this will encourage even more exchanges between our two countries for the years to come,” he said.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Endo invited everyone to visit Osaka for Expo 2025, a global event set to showcase innovation and collaboration.

“We hope it will inspire everyone to further foster new partnerships and leave you with a lasting impression of Japan,” he added.

As the evening drew to a close, Ambassador Endo expressed his optimism for the future of Japan-Philippines relations.

“The opportunities for collaboration are truly boundless,” he said. “I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to connect with each of you, and may our shared initiatives further strengthen the bonds of cooperation between our nations.”

The event at Hotel Okura Manila was a true celebration of Japan’s culture and diplomacy, with attendees enjoying delightful Japanese cuisine, music, and the company of influential figures from both countries.

With the Sakura symbolism still fresh in the air, the future of Japan-Philippines relations looks as bright and enduring as the cherry blossoms.

The heartfelt messages, delivered in a special video, highlight the company’s dedication to delivering insightful, factual reporting and its significant role in fostering international relations.

The ambassadors, representing a diverse group of countries, extended their gratitude for the organization’s continued commitment to providing accurate and comprehensive news, especially in promoting collaboration between the Philippines and the international community.

British Ambassador to the Philippines, Laure Beaufils, expressed her appreciation: “Warm greetings to everyone at THEPHILBIZNEWS. I am delighted to join you on this very special occasion. Many congratulations to you on 16 fantastic years of factual reporting and being a key voice for the diplomatic and business communities in the Philippines. Your collaboration over the years has been very fruitful, and we look forward to many more years of success.”

Bo Lundqvist, President of the Nordic Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, also conveyed his support: “Today I’d like to congratulate our friends at the Philippine Business & News on their 16th anniversary. THEPHILBIZNEWS has been a friend of the Nordic community for years and we wish them all the best in the years to come.”

Indonesian Ambassador Agus Widjojo highlighted the impact of the organization’s coverage on socio-economic issues: “Congratulations to THEPHILBIZNEWS for 16 fruitful years of being of service to the Filipino people wherever they are in the world. You have been their source of factual and comprehensive information on local and international issues. May you continue to burn long enough for another 16 years.”

Numerous other ambassadors from countries including Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Taiwan, Switzerland, Germany, Malaysia, and Belgium also sent their best wishes.

Taipei Economic and Cultural Office’s Wallace Chow shared: “As a valued media partner, you’ve broadened the audience horizon and enriched their lives by providing various information on issues including international diplomacy, entrepreneurship, energy, tourism, agriculture, education, culture, technology, and more. We look forward to a stronger partnership with you in the years to come.”

The video, which captures the personal messages of all 19 ambassadors, is a testament to THEPHILBIZNEWS’s role in strengthening global ties and its impact on promoting dialogue and collaboration across different nations.

THEPHILBIZNEWS is grateful for the continued support of the diplomatic and business communities, as it looks ahead to many more years of meaningful contributions to the media landscape.