In a country where every headline has the power to spark debate or get people talking, newspapers play a major role in keeping the conversation going. Covering everything from politics to business and cultural trends, Filipino newspapers act as trusted voices in a nation that values its hard-fought press freedom.
For many, reading the daily news is a ritual, a way to stay informed and connected to the pulse of the nation. So, what are the top publications driving these discussions?
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
The Philippine Daily Inquirer has earned a reputation for telling the news like it is. Its straightforward and no-nonsense approach has made it a trusted source for readers who want the facts, even when the story is tough or controversial.
One of their biggest moments came in 2013 with the “pork barrel” scandal in the Philippines. While other outlets touched on the surface, the Inquirer dug deep. They uncovered how billions of pesos in public funds were being funneled into fake NGOs by politicians and their allies. They followed the money, named the people involved, and showed how a whole system of corruption had been operating for years.
That fearless journalism sparked public outrage, led to investigations, and pushed for changes, showing how the Inquirer’s work makes a real difference to Filipinos.
2. The Philippine Star
The Philippine Star lives by its motto, “The truth shall prevail,” and it shows in every story they share. With honesty and integrity, they are dedicated to giving readers the truth they need, even when it’s hard to hear. Their promise is simple: to stand by the people, clear up confusion, and hold those in power accountable.
In 2024, this commitment was on full display during the House deliberations on the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) budget. Rep. France Castro shared findings from the Commission on Audit, revealing that Vice President Sara Duterte spent ₱125 million in confidential funds in just 11 days in 2022. Among the expenses were ₱14 million for purchasing information, and ₱40 million for medical and food aid.
The report raised pressing questions about how such large sums were used, sparking debates on their necessity and transparency. It’s a clear example of how PhilStar’s dedication to truth shapes critical national conversations, solidifying its reputation as one of the country’s most trusted voices in journalism.
3. Manila Bulletin
The Manila Bulletin may be over a century old, but it’s far from outdated. Through wars, political shifts, and countless milestones in the nation’s history, it has consistently delivered news that matters to Filipinos.
Take the COVID-19 pandemic, for example. When uncertainty loomed, the Bulletin became a trusted companion for many. It kept people informed about updates on case numbers, safety protocols, and vaccination rollouts. Professionals and policymakers turned to its in-depth coverage of business and agriculture to understand how the pandemic affected the economy.
Through it all, the Manila Bulletin stayed true to its mission: delivering the news people could rely on and staying relevant to every generation it serves.
4. The Manila Times
With roots tracing back to 1898, The Manila Times has seen the Philippines through it all, from the fight for independence to the changes in its government. For over a century, it’s adapted to the times while staying true to its mission of delivering reliable news, earning the trust of generations of readers.
During the 2022 Philippine elections, The Manila Times proved what it means to dig deep. Their election coverage examined each candidate’s track record and campaign platforms. The reporting delved into questions about inherited wealth and governance history on one side, while scrutinizing public service achievements and program effectiveness on the other.
This kind of reporting offered voters a clearer picture of the candidates, far beyond their speeches and promises. It’s this commitment to honest, history-rooted journalism that makes The Manila Times a trusted source for its readers.
5. Business World
BusinessWorld has cemented its position as one of the country’s premier sources of economic insight. This was particularly evident during the 2020 pandemic, when complex economic policies needed clear interpretation. Their analysis of critical legislation like the Bayanihan Act explained how stimulus measures directly affected businesses, workers, and households during the crisis. When Filipinos needed to understand the economic safety nets available to them, BusinessWorld delivered clarity amid the uncertainty.
6. Business Mirror
At BusinessMirror, you won’t just find dry economic data. They dig deeper to show how policy changes and market shifts actually touch people’s lives.
Take their reporting on the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law, for example. BusinessMirror was one of the voices that helped Filipinos understand how the changes would affect them. They reported how the increase in excise taxes on fuel and sugary drinks would drive up costs, from transportation to food prices. They also offered practical advice to help readers manage the financial challenges brought by these changes.
For those trying to get a handle on industry trends and policies, BusinessMirror is a reliable choice. With its strong reputation in business news, it delivers the kind of insights readers need to stay informed and make smart decisions.
7. SunStar
Away from the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila, countless stories unfold in the regions, waiting to be told. SunStar takes pride in bringing these stories to light, focusing on regional news that resonates with readers outside the capital.
When the Marawi siege unfolded in 2017, SunStar’s reporters were on the ground, capturing the realities of the conflict with essential updates and firsthand accounts. They shared the voices of displaced families, the bravery of local communities, and the challenges faced by those working to restore peace.
SunStar brought the events in Marawi closer to readers, turning headlines into human stories that everyone could understand and connect with. It’s this kind of reporting that made them an important voice in the national conversation.
8. Manila Standard
Amid the noise of sensational headlines, it’s refreshing to find a source that focuses on clarity and balance. Manila Standard lives up to its name, known for reporting the facts clearly and simply, just the way readers expect.
A great example is how Manila Standard reported on the Taal Volcano eruption in 2020. Their coverage provided timely updates that were instrumental in keeping the public informed and safe. They shared key details from Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology’s (PHIVOLCS) bulletins, such as the recording of 123 volcanic earthquakes and the ongoing Alert Level 3 status. Manila Standard also kept readers informed about the government’s activation of emergency protocols, including evacuation procedures and safety guidelines for affected communities.
With concise reporting, Manila Standard delivered the facts plainly and effectively, ensuring readers were well-informed during a time of uncertainty and urgency.
9. Malaya Business Insight
Malaya has a storied past, once standing as a beacon for independent journalism during the Marcos regime, fearlessly reporting the truth at a time when doing so came at great risk. This legacy of bold, unflinching journalism continues to shape their work today, especially in their business coverage.
Their work shows a strong commitment to making big issues relatable. One example is their coverage of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), where they looked into how the trade deal could impact local farmers. They raised important questions about how increased competition from international markets might threaten their livelihoods.
When global oil prices shot up, Malaya explained how it trickled down to affect transportation costs, utility bills, and even food prices—issues that hit close to home for everyone. It’s this ability to connect the dots and tell important stories that makes Malaya’s reporting stand out.
10. Daily Tribune
At a time when many publications play it safe, there’s value in one that pushes boundaries and asks tough questions. The Daily Tribune isn’t afraid to stir the pot with its strong editorial voice, carving a reputation for fearless and opinionated reporting.
One example is the Daily Tribune’s coverage of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.’s recent announcement on the P20 per kilo rice promise. Rather than stopping at the headline, the Tribune explored the deeper issues, such as global trade barriers, El Niño’s impact, and geopolitical tensions that have driven up production costs. They highlighted Laurel’s candid admission that the promise remains unattainable for now, while also detailing his plans to modernize agriculture and boost local production.
With this level of detail, the Tribune gave readers a clear view of the complexities surrounding the issue, going beyond surface-level reporting to deliver a story with depth and context.
Keeping tabs on your brand in the media
These trusted newspapers keep us informed about events both here and around the world and play a powerful role in shaping public opinion and beliefs. If you’re managing a brand, knowing when and how your brand is mentioned in these outlets is essential.
ALSO READ: The 9 Top Broadsheets in the Philippines
With Media Meter’s real-time brand mention tracking, you’ll always stay ahead by knowing exactly where and how your brand appears in the media. Contact us for inquiries or view our sample media reports to know how we can help you.
