The recent East-West Media Conference in Manila convened over 400 journalists and media professionals from the Asia Pacific region to deliberate on the escalating tension in the South China Sea, the impact of artificial intelligence on news reporting, and the climate crisis.
Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo underscored the pivotal role of journalism in accurately reporting geopolitical tensions. He emphasized the detrimental effects of artificial intelligence in distorting facts, asserting that a free press that reports events as they occur is the “hallmark of a true democracy.”
Manalo expressed appreciation for the media’s accurate coverage of events in the West Philippine Sea and its resistance to the creation of “alternative realities” through AI and disinformation. He noted that genuine photos and videos convey information more effectively than attempts at misinformation and spreading false narratives.
The official also commended the media for spotlighting the ongoing issues in the West Philippine Sea. He expressed gratitude for the media’s partnership and their significant contribution to highlighting the real situation in the region.
In response to accusations by Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Mao Ning, who described the Philippines as a “pawn” of the United States in the contested waters, Manalo refuted Beijing’s claims and argued against the portrayal of the Philippines as merely a backdrop for great power competition.
US Ambassador to the Philippines MarKay Carlson echoed Manalo’s sentiments, emphasizing that the Philippines is not a pawn in a great-power game and calling out Beijing’s aggressive behaviors in the region. She urged the People’s Republic of China to cease harassment of Philippine vessels in the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone and to end interference with the freedoms of navigation and overflight of all states’ lawful operation.
The East-West Media Conference also addressed the role of Artificial Intelligence in journalism and the climate crisis, highlighting the need for a combination of modern scientific approaches and traditional knowledge in addressing environmental challenges.
In conclusion, the conference provided a platform for journalists and media professionals to exchange insights on the pressing issues in the Asia Pacific region. It illuminated the significant role of the media in reporting truthfully and ethically in the face of escalating tensions and the spread of digital misinformation and disinformation.
The East-West Media Conference, organized by the East-West Center, aims to bring together journalists from across the Indo-Pacific and address critical issues affecting the region.
Source: Asia Media Centre
Leave a Reply