Press freedom is guaranteed under the watch of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., Malacañang said on Tuesday.

Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles issued the statement, in celebration of National Press Freedom Day.

“Kinikilala at nirerespeto ng ating pamahalaan, sa ilalim ng pamumuno ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., ang press freedom sa bansa na nakabatay sa ating Saligang Batas o Konstitusyon (The administration, under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., recognizes and respects press freedom in the country, as guaranteed by the Constitution),” she said in a Facebook post.

Cruz-Angeles said the Office of the Press Secretary is joining the entire country in commemorating the National Press Freedom Day, which coincides with the birth anniversary of Marcelo H. del Pilar.

On Aug. 25, Cruz-Angeles ensured that the Palace would work closely with media organizations to protect and uphold the rights of journalists.

Republic Act (RA) 11699 inked by former President Rodrigo Duterte declared Aug. 30 of every year as National Press Freedom Day in honor of del Pilar, the father of Philippine Journalism.

Del Pilar, who wrote under the pen name “Plaridel,” was born on Aug. 30, 1890.

Under RA 11699, Aug. 30 of every year is declared a working holiday.

RA mandates all government agencies and instrumentalities, as well as the private sector, to engage and participate in the meaningful observance and celebration of National Press Freedom Day.

The directive covers the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, government-owned and -controlled corporations, and the local government units.

The law also orders the Department of Education, the Commission on Higher Education, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to lead public and private schools at all levels in organizing activities on the importance of the press and their rights and social responsibilities. (PNA)