The Iloilo City Hall Press Corps strongly disapproves of the behavior exhibited by a local vlogger who falsely claimed to be a member of the media during the coverage of a shooting incident in Miag-ao, Iloilo.
In an official statement, the press corps expressed their concern over the viral live video of vlogger Wilfredo Talaron, where he can be seen berating a barangay tanod (village watchman) for what he perceived as unsatisfactory answers regarding the incident.
According to the press corps, regardless of the tanod’s response, the vlogger had no right to use derogatory language and belittle him by saying, “kon ga-approach ka sa media nong, kay-uhon mo kay tanod ka lang”, “dapalon ta karon”, “daw halo ka”, “isugid taka kay Mayor Garin”,,” and other disrespectful remarks towards the tanod.
The Iloilo City Hall Press Corps strongly condemns such behavior from an individual who falsely identifies themselves as a media practitioner.
According to the press corps, engaging with stakeholders in any situation or during media coverage should not involve such conduct.
The press corps emphasizes the important role of the media in informing the public, promoting transparency, and holding those in power accountable. However, in fulfilling these responsibilities as the Fourth Estate, the highest standards of journalism and media ethics must be upheld.The press corps urges all media members in Iloilo to take this incident as a reminder to uphold media ethics in their daily work.It is known that Talaron is not a legitimate member of the mainstream media in Iloilo.
