Marcos urges media to promote 'positive' content for kids

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. called on television networks, its personalities, and stakeholders to create positive, nurturing programs for Filipino children and promote responsible television viewership.

The President made the push on Friday during the 2023 Anak TV Seal Awards ceremony, urging cooperation with government to foster a media environment suitable for Filipino children.

"I enjoin all Philippine TV networks, artists, and journalists, among others, to wield your power and utilize your platform in promoting media and online literacy and advocating child-sensitive content," Marcos said in a speech delivered by Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil.

"Continue to work with this Administration in shaping a more positive, nurturing, and inspiring media landscape for Filipino children by expanding your awareness of the needs of your young audience," he added.

The Anak TV Seal Awards recognizes broadcast personalities and programs which promote media literacy and child-sensitive, family-friendly television in the Philippines.

Enjoining the Anak TV organization to continue its advocacies, Marcos stressed that the behavior and values of the Filipino youth were molded by older generations.

"It is worth mentioning that the younger generations learn social behaviors by observing adults and role models. So, let us provide them with the necessary guidance in their consumption of media, and encourage them to watch shows that will teach them how to engage effectively with their peers, elders, and communities," Marcos said.

The President likewise commended Anak TV for continually recognizing outstanding child-friendly television programs that play a role in the creation of a new generation of socially conscious Filipinos.

The Anak TV Seal awards resumed this year after a three-year break because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As for the honorees, Marcos lauded Anak TV Seal Award recipients  for creating quality content that helps mold the values of Filipino children.

Twenty-nine GMA Network programs, five GTV programs, and several Kapuso personalities won Anak TV Seal Awards this year.

Deemed as a good influence by the awards body, the winning programs have been selected to sport the Anak TV seal during their broadcast. Additionally, GMA talents were named the most admired TV personalities by voters nationwide, earning the title of Makabata Star.

GMA News journalist Atom Araullo was elevated into Anak TV's Hall of Fame, as he has been voted a nationwide favorite for seven years in the annual surveys. — VDV, GMA Integrated News