Member-only story

Unveiling the Interplay: The Media's Role in the Ascendancy and Downfall of the Marcos Regime

Banana Yoshimoto

·5.8k Followers· Follow

Published in Passionate Revolutions: The Media And The Rise And Fall Of The Marcos Regime (Ohio RIS Southeast Asia 132)

5 min read · 3 weeks before

644 View Claps

39 Respond

Save

Listen

The Ferdinand Marcos regime in the Philippines stands as a poignant historical case study of the intricate relationship between media and politics. From the dictator's rise to power in 1965 to his eventual ouster in 1986, the media played a multifaceted and decisive role, both in shaping public perception and ultimately contributing to the regime's downfall.

The Media's Role in Marcos's Rise to Power

In the early years of Marcos's presidency, the Philippine media was largely subservient to the government. Fear of reprisal and the lure of government patronage kept critical voices in check. Marcos shrewdly exploited this control, utilizing the media to promote his image as a modernizing leader and a protector against communism.

State-controlled television and radio became powerful tools for disseminating propaganda. The Marcos-owned media conglomerate, KBS, churned out favorable coverage, while opposition voices were suppressed or marginalized. The regime also exerted pressure on newspapers and magazines, reducing their independence and fostering self-censorship.

Passionate Revolutions: The Media and the Rise and Fall of the Marcos Regime (Ohio RIS Southeast Asia 132)

Passionate Revolutions: The Media and the Rise and Fall of the Marcos Regime (Ohio RIS Southeast Asia Series Book 132)

by Rutherford M. Poats

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1518 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	285 pages

The Emergence of Dissident Media

As public discontent with the Marcos regime grew, so too did the number of dissenting voices in the media. Underground newspapers, such as the "Philippine Free Press" and "We Forum," emerged as platforms for critical reporting and analysis. These publications exposed corruption, human rights abuses, and the increasing authoritarianism of the Marcos government.

The Catholic Church also played a significant role in the emergence of dissident media. Cardinal Jaime Sin, the Archbishop of Manila, used his moral authority to condemn Marcos's excesses and provide a safe haven for opposition journalists. Churches and convents became centers for the production and distribution of alternative media.

The Role of New Technology

The advent of new technologies further facilitated the spread of dissident media. Photocopiers and mimeograph machines allowed for the quick and easy reproduction of underground publications. Cassette tapes became a popular medium for recording and sharing news and commentary.

As the Marcos regime tightened its grip on traditional media, dissidents turned to alternative distribution channels. They sold publications on the streets, distributed them through mail, and even used guerrilla theater to reach wider audiences.

The Culmination of Media Resistance

By the early 1980s, the Marcos regime was facing increasing domestic and international pressure. The assassination of opposition leader Benigno Aquino Jr. in 1983 sparked widespread protests and outrage. The media, both domestic and foreign, played a crucial role in exposing the government's involvement in the murder and galvanizing public opinion.

In 1986, a group of military officers launched a coup attempt against Marcos. The failed coup, known as the "EDSA Revolution," was met with massive popular support, fueled in part by the media's constant coverage of the events. Live television broadcasts of the protests and the negotiations between the rebels and the government helped to sway public opinion in favor of Marcos's ouster.

The Media's Legacy and Lessons Learned

The role of the media in the rise and fall of the Marcos regime offers valuable lessons for the future. It highlights the importance of media freedom and independence in a democratic society. The ability of dissident voices to challenge authority and inform the public can be a powerful force for change.

The Marcos regime's suppression of dissent and its manipulation of the media serve as a cautionary tale. It underscores the need for vigilance against the erosion of media freedom and the dangers of unchecked authoritarianism.

The legacy of the Philippine media's resistance to dictatorship continues to inspire journalists and activists around the world. It demonstrates the transformative power of a free and independent press in promoting accountability, protecting human rights, and safeguarding democracy.

The story of the Marcos regime and the media is a complex and multifaceted one. The media's role in shaping public perception, exposing government excesses, and mobilizing opposition played a pivotal role in both the regime's rise to power and its eventual demise.

The lessons learned from this historical chapter are essential for understanding the critical role of the media in a democratic society. By safeguarding media freedom, we empower citizens, promote transparency, and prevent the abuse of power. A vibrant and independent media remains a cornerstone of any society seeking to uphold its democratic ideals.

Passionate Revolutions: The Media and the Rise and Fall of the Marcos Regime (Ohio RIS Southeast Asia Series Book 132)

by Rutherford M. Poats

5 out of 5