Reader writes to PDI: I always come back . . .

Nov. 9, 2023

Dear Editors,

I have been living in the Philippines since 2004. I’ve been reading the Inquirer since 2004. In between, I also tried other daily newspapers, but after a few days I always came back to the PDI “remorsefully.” What I liked, and still do to this day, is the different authors and the fact that there are always writers who have different opinions from other writers or the editorial team. Nevertheless, these are also published. The newspaper is never boring.

While I read everything except sports, my son only reads sports. My wife reads about lifestyle and entertainment. So I always have to be at the mailbox first in the morning. No choice! The daily letters to the editor, where the readers’ opinions often differ widely, but always in a diplomatic tone, are also fascinating for me.

Maybe more color on the inside would be nice? Your own youth site? As you can see from my letters to the editor, I care very much about the next generation.

Since 2014 I have also been writing my letters to the editor regularly because, on the one hand, it brings me great joy and, on the other hand, I think it is important that readers should also express differing opinions. Even as a child, writing and reading filled me with euphoria. Even if they existed, I would hardly have used cell phones, games or the like. The Inquirer offers everyone an open door to express their opinion. It does not use manipulation and checks articles before they are published. They are aware of their duty, because a person’s life can quickly be destroyed forever by false news. This is how you do professional journalism. Research, independent checks, cross-checking, giving those affected a chance to express themselves and only then printing. Anything else would be dubious journalism, as unfortunately exists in many so-called “newspapers” and “magazines.”

What would I like in the PDI? Maybe a science site in which Filipino researchers comment on their projects. The freedom to say what you think without having to expect bad consequences is a valuable asset. I remember in my doctoral thesis in philosophy, not all professors were happy about certain formulations. Therefore, allow me to end with the German women’s rights activist and revolutionary Rosa Luxemburg: “Freedom is always the freedom of those who think differently.” I wish you all the best, good luck and health for the future.

Greetings,