Manila Standard on Thursday was named one of the recipients of the Pro Patria Journalism Award 2021 of the Rotary Club of Manila.
RCM said amid these challenging times, the award recognizes the media’s commitment “for the protection of free expression.”
Manila Standard publisher Rolando Estabillo, in accepting the award, said the newspaper’s brand of patriotism is “never blind” – pointing to former US Senator Carl Shurz’s famous quote: “My country, right or wrong. If right, to be kept right; if wrong, to be set right.”
“This is a reasonable zeal for one’s country. And we at Manila Standard stay hewed closely to this principle in taking a stand on burning issues,” Estabillo said.
“We are gratified and humbled by your recognition of our work in nation-building. While our role is a small one, it comes forth big to us in more ways than one. Bringing you the latest and relevant news of the day is only half of our daily toil. The other half, and more importantly, is to ensure your paper observes the highest standards of journalism,” he added.
Estabillo also recognized all the employees of Manila Standard who made the award possible.
“This is an award that belongs not to a select few but to all who labor silently to put Manila Standard to bed to see light again each new day,” he said.