How to Stand Up to a Dictator: The Fight for Our Future

In this chapter, Ressa provides a detailed account of her experience as the head of ABS-CBN News and Current Affairs from 2005 to 2010. As the largest news network in the Philippines, ABS-CBN played a significant role in shaping public opinion and influencing political events.

Ressa’s primary challenge was to change the organization’s culture, which was characterized by situational ethics and patronage politics. She instituted three key values—transparency, accountability, and consistency—to create a system that would function regardless of personal connections. She and her team crafted a 116-page “Standards and Ethics” manual. They also decided on a philosophy that succinctly expressed their values: “Excellent journalism to make the world a better place” (86). Ressa faced numerous challenges during her tenure, including lawsuits and smear campaigns from those within the company who resisted change. She had to make tough decisions, such as downsizing the news organization and firing those involved in corrupt practices. Despite the personal attacks and legal challenges, Ressa remained committed to her vision.

Ressa highlights the power of the media to influence politics, noting that during the 2006 state of national emergency declared by President Gloria Arroyo, ABS-CBN could have triggered a coup. Soldiers were waiting for the network, declaring that they would march if the network agreed to put them on air live.