Today, Feb. 2, 2025, the Manila Bulletin celebrates its 125th anniversary, a monumental milestone in Philippine journalism.
Through many challenges, the most recent of which are the changing landscape of delivering and consuming news, misinformation, and technological advances, the Manila Bulletin has kept its commitment to provide truthful information.
Manila Bulletin is proud to have consistently delivered news, shaped public opinion, and chronicled history through its trusted and responsible reportage that survived many changes in government administrations, elections, natural disasters, a global pandemic, even two World Wars.
From its humble beginnings in 1900 as a four-page shipping journal, the paper has grown into a media institution known for its steadfast commitment to accurate news and insightful stories.
The paper was founded by Carson C. Taylor, a former US Army officer and teacher from Illinois, and initially focused on providing shipping and commercial information. Since its first issue on Feb. 2, 1900, it evolved to cover diverse topics that matter to Filipinos, navigating technological advancements and political shifts with resilience. Its journey saw interruptions — three years of the Japanese Occupation of the Philippines in 1942—45 and two months at the start of martial law in 1972. Yet, the Manila Bulletin remained unwavering in its mission to serve as a beacon of reliable information.
We are proud of this longevity where Manila Bulletin witnessed, recorded, and contributed to the development and growth of our country. By offering comprehensive news coverage, editorials, and features, it has shaped conversations on national and global issues. Its stories have mirrored the nation’s triumphs and trials. And the Manila Bulletin’s history is, in many ways, a reflection of the country’s journey.
Under the leadership of the late philanthropist-businessman Dr. Emilio T. Yap and now helmed by his son, Basilio C. Yap, as Chairman of the Board, and grandson, Dr. Emil C. Yap III as President and Vice Chairman, the publication has established a reputation as a reliable source of accurate information and an exponent of Philippine progress.
It transitioned from print to digital platforms, reaching new generations of readers while retaining its trusted voice. Despite the rapid advancements in media technology, the newspaper has stayed true to its core values: fairness, accuracy, and impartiality.
A testament to its enduring credibility is its consistent high ranking in trust surveys. The most recent was a December 2024 survey where the Manila Bulletin was deemed “the most trusted broadsheet” by respondents who identified it as their top source for current events and news.
The trust factor has strengthened the publication’s credibility. Today, its commitment to responsible journalism is more vital than ever, as the public seeks reliable sources amid the overwhelming deluge of digital content.
Looking back, the Manila Bulletin’s stories were not merely news articles; they are pages of history. From documenting the political landscape through various administrations to chronicling advancements in technology and society, the publication has served as a witness to the nation’s progress.
As it marks its 125th anniversary, the Manila Bulletin faces the future with optimism and determination. Its editorial policy remains clear: to uphold decency, principle, and fairness while advocating for the best interests of the country and its people.
It will stay committed to providing information to guide decisions on local, national and global issues such as climate change, environmental conservation, cultural diversity and artificial intelligence (AI).
Looking ahead, the Manila Bulletin — which now delivers news through print, online, video, and social media platforms — will continue to adapt to the evolving media landscape, exploring innovations while staying true to its mission as the “Exponent of Philippine Progress.”
