Media Groups Urge President Marcos to Retain Jay Ruiz as PCO Chief

In a significant move amidst ongoing Cabinet reshuffles, three prominent media organizations have publicly urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to retain Jay Ruiz as the Secretary of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO). This call for continuity comes as the administration navigates a complex landscape of public discourse and media accountability.

The Justice Reporters’ Organization (JUROR), the SOCSKSARGEN Press Club, and the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI) expressed their support in a joint statement released on June 8, 2025. They highlighted Ruiz's professionalism and integrity, emphasizing his capacity to effectively manage government communications during a time of heightened demand for transparency and accuracy in information dissemination.

According to JUROR, which consists of veteran journalists focused on justice reporting, Ruiz has consistently demonstrated the qualities essential for a communicator in a democratic society. “Many of us have worked alongside Mr. Ruiz during his time in broadcast journalism. He earned our respect not only for his professionalism and credibility but also for his instinctive understanding of the role of media in a democracy,” the organization stated. They further noted that his dual experience in both journalism and government provides a unique advantage in today's rapidly evolving media landscape.

The SOCSKSARGEN Press Club reinforced this sentiment through a Manifesto of Support, asserting that Ruiz is best suited to lead the PCO as the strategic communications arm of the Marcos administration. They pointed to his extensive broadcast expertise and established media networks as critical assets in promoting responsible journalism and bridging communication gaps between the government and the populace. “With such qualifications and competencies that befit Secretary Ruiz, the administration of PBBM is assured of an effective and responsive communications arm,” the SOCSKSARGEN Press Club emphasized.

PAPI President Nelson Santos also weighed in on the importance of continuity within government communications, particularly amid political turbulence and public scrutiny. “While we fully respect the ongoing evaluation being conducted on Secretary Ruiz, we believe that changing the guards in the middle of the ballgame does not bode well for the administration—especially at a time when coherent, credible communication is most needed,” Santos stated. He highlighted Ruiz's commitment to ensuring fair and accurate information flow, which he believes is vital for maintaining public trust.

Ruiz, who was appointed as PCO chief in February 2025, replacing Cesar Chavez, has been the fourth press secretary under the Marcos administration since its inception. The frequent changes in leadership, as noted by Santos, could set a concerning precedent for effective communications strategy in the government. This is particularly relevant as the administration faces increasing pressure from various sectors seeking accountability and clarity in public messaging.

In conclusion, the support for Jay Ruiz from these media organizations underscores the critical role of effective communication in governance, especially in an era marked by misinformation and a demand for transparency. As President Marcos considers the future of his Cabinet, the call to retain Ruiz may reflect broader concerns regarding the need for stability and integrity in government communication channels. The implications of such a decision could resonate throughout the administration, impacting public trust and engagement moving forward.