Editorial Standards & Ethics

PhilReport is an independent publication committed to public-interest journalism in the Philippines. Our work is guided by the principles of accuracy, fairness, independence, transparency, and accountability, and is informed by Philippine law, journalistic best practices, and democratic norms.

These standards govern how our journalism is reported, written, edited, and corrected.

1. Editorial Independence

PhilReport operates independently of political parties, elected officials, government agencies, corporations, and advocacy organizations.

Editorial decisions are made solely by the editorial team. Advertising, sponsorships, and financial considerations do not influence coverage, story placement, or conclusions.

Any financial, professional, or personal relationships that could reasonably be perceived as conflicts of interest must be disclosed to editors and, where relevant, to readers.

2. Reporting, Verification, and Sourcing

We require rigorous reporting proportional to the seriousness and impact of the subject matter.

• Facts are verified using primary sources whenever possible, including official documents, sworn testimony, audit reports, court records, and on-the-record interviews.
• Claims based on documents, data, or testimony are corroborated or clearly attributed.
• We distinguish clearly between verified facts, allegations, and analysis.

Anonymous sources are used sparingly and only when:

• The information is of clear public interest
• The source faces a credible risk of retaliation
• The information cannot reasonably be obtained on the record

Editors must know the identity of anonymous sources and assess their credibility, access to information, and potential motivations. When anonymity is granted, we explain the reason to readers where feasible.

We do not publish rumors, blind items, or unverified allegations.

3. Legal Context and Libel Standards

PhilReport reports within the framework of Philippine law, including the Revised Penal Code, the Cybercrime Prevention Act, and relevant jurisprudence on libel and press freedom.

We take particular care when reporting on:

• Ongoing investigations
• Unfiled complaints or referrals
• Individuals not charged with a crime

Allegations are attributed, contextualized, and clearly distinguished from established facts. The absence of comment or denial from a subject does not prevent publication when reporting is supported by documentary evidence or credible testimony.

Legal review may be conducted for high-risk stories, but legal concerns do not determine editorial conclusions.

4. Right of Reply and Fairness

We make reasonable efforts to seek comment from individuals and institutions that are the subject of serious allegations or criticism.

• Requests for comment are made in good faith and with sufficient time to respond when practicable.
• Responses are reflected fairly and accurately.
• Refusals to comment are noted where relevant.

The right of reply does not include the right to delay publication indefinitely or to dictate editorial framing.

5. Accuracy, Corrections, and Updates

Accuracy is essential to our credibility.

Articles undergo editorial review before publication. When errors are identified after publication:

• Substantive errors are corrected promptly and transparently, with a correction note added to the article.
• Clarifications are issued when wording may have caused misunderstanding.
• Minor typographical errors that do not affect meaning may be corrected without notice.

Readers may report errors or request corrections through the contact information listed on this site.

6. Analysis, Opinion, and Editorial Voice

PhilReport publishes reported journalism, analysis, and commentary.

• News reporting aims to present verified facts fairly and without advocacy.
• Analysis and opinion pieces are clearly labeled and reflect the author’s informed judgment.
• Editorials and commentary are grounded in verifiable facts and serious argument, not speculation or personal attacks.

Strong opinions do not exempt an article from standards of accuracy, sourcing, or fairness.

7. Conflicts of Interest

Contributors must disclose any relationships that could reasonably be perceived as influencing their work.

We do not allow contributors to cover:

• Institutions they are employed by or formally affiliated with
• Political campaigns or parties they actively support
• Companies in which they hold significant financial interests

When potential conflicts exist but coverage is justified, disclosures are made to readers.

8. Use of Digital and AI-Assisted Tools

PhilReport journalists may use digital tools, including AI-assisted software, to support aspects of the reporting and editorial process such as background research, transcription, data organization, and copy-editing.

AI systems do not independently determine the substance, conclusions, or editorial framing of articles published by PhilReport.

All published content is reviewed and approved by human editors and authors, who retain full editorial responsibility and accountability under Philippine law.

9. Attribution and Originality

We expect original reporting and analysis.

• Sources of data, quotations, and prior reporting are credited appropriately.
• Plagiarism, fabrication, or misrepresentation of sources is grounds for removal and termination of contributor relationships.
• When reporting builds on public records, audit findings, legislative hearings, or prior journalism, that context is acknowledged.

10. Ethics, Harm, and Public Interest

PhilReport adheres to ethical journalism principles:

• We prioritize the public interest over sensationalism.
• We avoid unnecessary harm while recognizing that accountability reporting may be uncomfortable for those in power.
• We respect privacy except where public office, public funds, or public safety are involved.

We do not pay for news, accept bribes, or offer inducements to sources.

11. Accountability and Transparency

We believe trust is earned through openness.

• Editorial decisions may be questioned and explained.
• Corrections are visible and documented.
• These standards may be updated as Philippine media law and journalistic best practices evolve.

Questions regarding our editorial standards may be directed to the editorial team through the contact information listed on this site.