Statement to the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas – Blocktimers During the Campaign Period and Elections

The Center for Media Freedom & Responsibility (CMFR) organized a roundtable discussion with media and civil society organizations (CSOs) engaged in electoral activities. During the discussion, participants from the broadcast, print, and electronic media from around the country expressed their concern about the impact of blocktimers who host political talk shows sponsored by political candidates, some of which are reportedly funded by local government units. These programs are obviously part of the campaigns of candidates. Unfortunately, these are not identified as political advertising, and can be misconstrued as independent commentary over radio. Continue reading