Newsworthy?

Time and again we have seen the development of the Internet and how broadly it has affected even the most mundane things. I know of several people whom have stopped their subscriptions to newspapers and magazines since they can read the articles online.

But who regulates these “online journalists”? I have often pondered if the The Filipino Journalist’s Code of Ethics or the Code of Professional And Ethical Conduct Of The Philippine Press Institute is even applicable to these people. I would submit that they are still bound since these online publications are in essence still “newspapers” (but in digital form). The same concerns and issues are still prevalent.

However, the problem arises in the prevalence of websites that are not solely in the business of news reporting. Certain sites provide newsworthy items. Nonetheless, it cannot be said that they are 100% accurate. I have even heard about bogus sites which purposely spread false or totally inaccurate information.

In the end, people must exercise a higher level of discernment with the information they read off the net. Information from the Internet shouldn’t be taken lightly since it can be easily fabricated and just as easily, the author can avoid detection or liability.