How we work: Philstar.com's editorial standards, in brief

Last updated: February 8, 2025. Updated guidelines on the use of generative AI. Updated fact-checking guidelines on funding and support disclosures. Added guidelines on reporting about abuse, minors and suicide. This is a condensed overview of our full Editorial Standards and Practices used by our journalists and editors.

Core principles

Accuracy

We verify claims, figures and quotes before publication. When we err, we correct promptly and clearly.

Independence

Our duty is to the public, not to parties, advertisers or outside interests. Potential conflicts of interest are disclosed.

Fairness

We reflect relevant viewpoints, offer subjects a fair chance to respond and avoid stereotypes. We minimize harm.

Transparency

We explain how we work, distinguish news from opinion, and label sponsored content.

Editorial practices

Sourcing

Prefer first-hand sources and records.
Anonymous sources are rare and require senior editor approval and corroboration.
Social posts are verified before use.

Verification

Every story is edited and key facts checked before publication.
In breaking news, speed never trumps accuracy. We note what’s confirmed and avoid speculation.
We add missing context and other views in updates or follow-ups.

Corrections

We correct errors on the story page and on social media if needed, explain what changed, and use editor’s notes for major fixes.
We don’t unpublish accurate stories or remove correct information.

Impartiality & community

We don’t endorse candidates. Staff avoid political activity related to their beats and steer clear of coverage where they have investments.
We moderate our spaces to keep discussion respectful; abusive behavior may lead to bans.

Fact-checking

Philstar.com and Interaksyon helped found Tsek.ph, the country’s first collaborative fact-checking network, and follow International Fact-Check Network principles.

What we check

Public statements by officials and prominent figures, and widely shared claims.

How we work

Editors approve claims for review and assign to trained reporters.
Each fact check is bylined with public sources readers can verify.
Editors with fact-checking training review before publish.

Ratings

True — claim and narrative are factual.
False — overall message is incorrect (sometimes via genuine media used to push a false narrative).
Fake — deliberately altered statements, photos or videos.
Misleading — distorts reality or omits key context.

Corrections & independence

We correct fact checks promptly and may revise ratings if warranted, with an editor’s note.
We disclose external support for fact-checking. Editorial decisions remain independent.

An expanded FAQ on Philstar.com Fact Check, our fact-checking initiative, can be accessed here.

AI policy

AI helps us work faster and clearer—but never replaces editorial judgment.

Principles

Human oversight: All AI outputs are reviewed by journalists; senior editors have final say.
Accountability: Staff remain responsible for published work.
Transparency: We disclose substantial AI use in creating content.