‘You can’t bully the truth’

Daily Guardian categorically asserts that our reporting on the remarks of Philippine Statistics Authority Western Visayas (PSA-6) Director Nelida Amolar the impact of the 300% increase in Iloilo City’s real property tax during the August 14, 2025, press conference was accurate and faithful to the public record.

The briefing, streamed live on the PSA Region VI Western Visayas Facebook page, Amolar explained that when real property taxes increase, establishments are compelled to adjust by adding costs to the prices of commodities and services. Her words are clear, accessible, and verifiable in the live stream (https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1B4Q7cVCV1/).

To quote: “As a general, kung magtaas ang RPT, bawion na sang mga establishments either add on in the prices of commodities. Kay kung mabayad sila dako, gamay ila benta — that is a direct effect, especially in wholesale, retail and even service commodities like restaurants and cafés.”

Nowhere in our report did we claim that the RPT increase was the sole or direct cause of inflation; in fact, we specifically cited PSA-6’s own data attributing July 2025 inflation primarily to electricity and rentals.

To suggest, therefore, that the Daily Guardian misrepresented her statement is misleading and unfounded.  Our physical absence from the press conference is immaterial, as the evidence is accessible to all.

It must also be stressed that the Daily Guardian was not alone in reporting Amolar’s statement. To single us out is an attempt to repress an independent press and to intimidate us into silence. We will not be bullied into abandoning the truth.

On Monday, August 18, Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu had a meltdown after being asked about reports linking the RPT hike to the city’s inflation. It was only after the mayor’s outburst that Amolar disowned a statement already on public record. This troubling reversal raises serious questions about the independence of public institutions when confronted with political pressure.

We therefore call on the PSA-6 to uphold the integrity of its data and pronouncements, free from political influence or intimidation. The people of Iloilo City deserve clarity, not contradictions; transparency, not doublespeak.

Daily Guardian stands by its reportage. We did not misquote, nor did we fabricate. We reported what was said — and we will continue to do so, guided not by political convenience but by evidence and accountability.