The National Press Club (NPC) has urged Senator Rodante Marcoleta to identify specific media personnel allegedly involved in receiving payments, following his controversial remarks suggesting that some journalists were paid for coverage.
In an exclusive interview on DZRH’s Breaktime, NPC President Leonel Abasola said the senator’s statement, which allegedly stemmed from a sworn affidavit by 18 former Marines, amounted to a sweeping accusation that unfairly implicated members of the media, particularly those assigned to the Senate beat.
Rodante Marcoleta reportedly made the accusation after citing sworn statements from former Marines alleging that some media personnel received luggage containing cash. The Senate media community strongly rejected the claim, describing it as irresponsible and a dangerous attack on journalism, warning that it undermines public trust and weakens democratic institutions.
“Medyo nakakatakot po ito kasi parang sweeping statement… nilahat mo eh. Although sabi niya hindi naman daw lahat, pero ganun pa rin po ang epekto noon,” Abasola said.
He stressed that journalists covering the Senate have long performed their duties professionally and urged officials to avoid generalized accusations without clear evidence.
“So ang challenge nga namin sana name names. Huwag po yung ganitong puro sweeping statement tayo,” he added.
Abasola also noted that media organizations, including the Senate Press Photographers Association, are still consulting on possible responses but have not yet finalized any formal action.
Despite the controversy, he said journalists continue to cover Senate proceedings as part of their mandate, emphasizing that reporting decisions remain guided by editorial standards of their respective news organizations.
“Tagahatid balita po tayo kung ano yung nakikita natin, tinuulat po natin yan,” Abasola said.
He added that the press community expected clarification or accountability following the remarks, expressing disappointment over the lack of follow-through on the issue.
The NPC said it is continuing consultations with its members while reiterating its call for Senator Marcoleta to substantiate his allegations and specifically name individuals involved.
