THE FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION OF THE MASS MEDIA: IMPLICATION TO THE IMAGE AND CREDIBILITY OF THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE

ABSTRACT This study aimed to determine the impact of Mass Media on the Image of Law Enforcers or Police Officers; the responsibility of mass media, and the media freedom of expression and their ethics. The researchers used randomized technique. The respondents of the researchers were 20 persons in civic organization, 20 persons in public servants, 20 persons businessmen, 20 persons professionals and 20 persons for different religious groups. All data gathered are tabulated, presented and interpreted in tables and graphs. Base on the findings, the researchers concluded that a large number of respondents were male, college graduates, and between 31-35 years old. The respondents strongly agreed that it helps disseminating, publicized and give public ? information how the police officers work in terms of their duty and responsibility as a public servant in terms of the impact of mass media on the image of law enforcers. The mass media have vital roles between the police and the community as a bridge not only in times of calamities but also such programs that could help for keeping peace and order in a certain community. The respondents also strongly agreed in a manner of how the mass media performed their duty for being knowledgeable, accurate, fair and intelligent. Since the mass media is concerned in this matter, it is recommended that the law enforcers or police officers should maintain their good image so the community will respect them at all times. That the mass media should maintain their credibility also to be more effective as a bridge between the police officers and the community. Likewise, the mass media should not accept any valuable things for self-interest only other researchers may use this study for as their baseline data for further studies. ?