Often called the social media capital of the world, the Philippines is the first democratic country in Asia and has a comparably long tradition of a free media within the region. Its media generally reflect the country’s colonial experience with Spain and the United States and the business and political interests of the Philippine elite. At the same time, the media mirror the contradictions that exist in Philippine society. While often described as the most freewheeling media in Asia, it remains one of the most dangerous places to be a journalist.

Despite its lingering problems, the media plays a key role in shaping Philippine society; it is the third most trusted institution in the Philippines, after the Church and the academe, according to the Philippine Trust ...