She is a trained economist, whose father was president in the early 1960s. Arroyo is keen to emphasise her Christian faith, and observers say she will be a contrast to the hard-drinking lifestyle favoured by her predecessor. The Philippines media scene reflects the often turbulent history and politics of the country. The Office of the President implements government policies on information and the media. Freedom of the press and freedom of speech are guaranteed under the 1987 constitution.
Media ownership is a mix of state owned and private.
In a country with extreme polarities of wealth distribution, powerful families and businesses control many radio and TV stations and newspapers. Physical assaults on journalists, once common, abated in 1999. The private press remains vigorous, though prone to sensationalism and exaggeration.