PCP Statement on Freeloading

Recent moves within the photojournalism community have shed light on the predatory practices of certain media organizations in the use of user-generated content.

While the practice of using content from citizens is still evolving, together with the growth of online and social media, it is now a good time to look at the practice, not only to set standards of remuneration but also to look at ethical considerations in relying on social media for news content.

This is not to dismiss the participation of citizens who are willing to contribute their story and images without the prospect of earning money and in fact driven only by noble intentions to report what is happening within their environs, but in fact to further strengthen it.

This is altogether a separate issue from the exploitative practice of "borrowing" photographs and video footage from individuals who can earn a living using their talents, and the even more unconscionable act of using a citizen's time, effort, and resources for outright news-gathering.

Even in the current pandemic situation, all news outlets have budgets for news-gathering and whether it will be produced by an employee, a freelance professional, or an ordinary citizen, a commensurate fee is not only considerate but in fact necessary.

The exchange in social media has opened doors wide such that one of the country's biggest networks has called for a "healthy dialogue."

The Photojournalists’ Center of the Philippines welcomes all of these developments and is helping efforts to have all stakeholders come together and address this issue.