Merriam-Webster Online defines embargo as 1: an order of a government prohibiting the departure of commercial ships from its ports2: a legal prohibition on commerce <a trade embargo>3: stoppage, impediment; especially : prohibition <I lay no embargo on anybody’s words — Jane Austen>4: an order by a common carrier or public regulatory agency prohibiting or restricting freight transportation.
In the field of journalism, however, a similar system called news embargo is also practiced. Wikipedia explains: a news embargo or press embargo is a request by a source that the information or news provided by that source not be published until a certain date or certain conditions have been met.
The topic on news embargo came to light again in view of the recent kidnapping of ABS-CBN’s Ces Drilon, her crew and Professor Octavio Dinampo.
A news blackout on the abduction was requested by ABS-CBN.
Here’s a thought-provoking take on the news blackout from AlterNation101 and the embargo from The Daily Dose of Manuel L. Quezon III.
Posted by
JOEY L. GARCIA, 27 June 2008
