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The difference between Rappler and other newsgroups in the Philippines is that journalists control Rappler both editorially and commercially. We make decisions that are bad for business but protect the public sphere.
Maria Ressa
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Rappler prioritizes public interest over commercial gain, unlike many other news organizations.

In this quote, Maria Ressa highlights the unique position of Rappler in the Philippines' media landscape. While many newsgroups often prioritize profitability and commercial interests, Rappler maintains editorial independence, allowing its journalists to make choices that serve the public good, even if those decisions may negatively impact the company's financial performance. This commitment reflects a broader ethos in journalism that values accountability and integrity over mere business success.

Themes

JournalismPublic InterestMedia IntegrityPhilippinesEditorial Independence

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about media ethics, I might reference Maria Ressa's commitment to journalistic integrity.

More from Maria Ressa

The social media platforms have taken over the distribution of news globally. They treat a lie the same way you would treat a fact.
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If you want to rip the heart out of a democracy, you go after the facts. That's what modern authoritarians do. You lie. All the time. Then, you say it's your opponents and the journalists who lie.
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Embrace your fear. Imagine what you're most afraid of, touch it and hold it so that you rob it of its power.
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Let me go back to a fundamental thing we all used to agree on: information is power. That's why we became journalists in the first place.
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Technology enabled Rappler's fast growth starting in 2012, but we were also among the first victims when social media was weaponized in 2016.
Maria RessaRead
In 14 months, my government, the Philippine 2 government, has filed 11 cases. I posted bail eight times, I've been arrested twice in five weeks, detained once, and the only thing I've done, my only crime is to be a journalist, to speak truth to power.
Maria RessaRead

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