“Just like we bishops and priests, media should only tell the truth, and nothing but the truth. Likewise, when we see mistakes of our government, it is also our responsibility to tell them. But still, we should not be bias. Our country has suffered too much because of lies and corruption in politics. Let’s start the change among ourselves.” Archbishop Valles said.
Quoting John 8:32 of the Bible when Jesus said to his disciples, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free,” Valles emphasized that the importance of telling the truth. “Spreading lies will only earn us enemies, and will divide us a nation. So please, verify your news reports before you publish them,” the incoming CBCP president added.
But while Valles did not mention any TV network, observers believe that he want media to be fair with the Duterte administration. As we all know, President Duterte has been criticizing ABS-CBN, Inquirer and Rappler for slanting news report. Nevertheless, he also has slammed the Catholic Church, and described it as the most hypocritical institution.
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Valles, who will replace outgoing CBCP President Lingayen, Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas this coming December 1, is a known friend of the Duterte family. In fact, he led the opening prayer at Duterte's presidential inauguration on June 30, 2016, and baptized Duterte's newest grandson, Stonefish Duterte Carpio in Davao City last March.
In an interview in June 2016, Archbishop Valles explained on what he thinks is the best way to engage with President Duterte. According to him, people should have a friendly way of sharing ideas with the president, noting that the Catholic Church in Davao City had no conflict with Duterte when he was still the city mayor, a post he held for more than 22 years.
Contributed by Salvi Dalida
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