Despite the Philippines’ significant rise in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index as released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting journalists and upholding press freedom.

The Philippines ranked 116th out of 180 countries and territories for 2025. This ranking means the country leapt 18 notches from its 134th place last year, its best showing in 21 years.

The country’s overall score rose by 6.2 points to 49.57, as RSF noted substantial improvements in the Philippine media’s safety and legal frameworks.

“Yes, definitely, that’s (the 2025 RSF World Press Freedom Index) good news. The President is delighted with the latest ranking of the Philippines in relation to its upholding of press freedom,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said on Monday.

“It shows that the President respects one’s rights of expression and responsible journalism,” Undersecretary Castro said. “This particular achievement of the Philippines also shows that the President is not gearing towards dictatorship…There is definitely press freedom in the country.”

The Palace Press Officer pointed out that the President is honoring his commitment to uphold press freedom in the country.

“We assured that we are doubling down on our commitment to protect our journalists and to uphold press freedom. We stand with you hand in hand in this fight,” Castro said, quoting President Marcos.

The RSF said the World Press Freedom Index’s purpose is to compare the freedom enjoyed by journalists and media in 180 countries and territories. This is done annually. | PND