Judicious KBP Code of Ethics

Code of Ethics is said to be the guidelines of right and wrong for the members of a group or organization. We all know that even broadcasters have their own Code of Ethics. All members that are licensed and recognized broadcasters here in the Philippines is under the govern association of Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (Association of Broadcasters of the Philippines) or also known as KBP.

KBP’s Code of Ethics serves as the main book of righteousness and the watchdog for media practitioners. Almost all media network and media men from different entity whether radio or television is member of KBP.

After reading the KBP’s Code of Ethics, I much realized that their contribution in the field of broadcasting is very significant in our history. They set specific and efficient guidelines and rules that should be followed for better and more accurate news dissemination. Through that, broadcasters here in the Philippines are careful enough to do their task when it comes to disseminating news for the Filipino citizens.

But some are still committing some violations against the KBP’s Code of Ethics like Article 1 (Sensationalism) Section 9c (The presentation of news and commentaries must not be done in a way that would create unnecessary panic or alarm.). One that I noticed was sensationalizing the news when there’s no really confirmation about the true story. My personal experience during my internship that I think really suits as an example is when I went to the Department of Energy and we were able to talk with Secretary regarding the shortage of oil in the country. He said in dismay that some of the broadcasters particularly in radio were sensationalizing the news about oil shortage in their radio program. Well, in fact, according to Secretary of DOE, there’s still enough supply for the consumers. Some were alarmed and questions have been thrown to the government.

I believed that some of media practitioners are doing this for the sake of just making news instead of disseminating fresh, timely and accurate news. I also believe that maybe some of those broadcasters who are just exaggerating it are not member of KBP. It is actually an embarrassment of happenings for me I heard that coming directly from our DOE Secretary.

So far, I think KBP made sure that all the guidelines in the revised 2007 Broadcast Code can do possibly. I also appreciate their effort in providing, monitoring and leading our news casting here in the country. They made that Code of Ethics in most prudent way. It is almost impossible for us to memorize all their guidelines but I know that if we will just put ourselves in the shoes of every citizen we will come up in the realization that being true to the nation is always grateful. Serving your nation is something to be proud of.