HOUSE Representatives Paolo Ortega and Zia Alonto Adiong today called for a more responsible and fact-based approach to social media usage.
Speaking at a press conference at the House of Representatives media center, the lawmakers addressed concerns surrounding the spread of misinformation and its impact on public discourse.
Their comments came amidst ongoing discussions regarding several high-profile cases, including the trial of former President Rodrigo Duterte at the International Criminal Court.
The representatives highlighted the potential for social media to be manipulated and used to disseminate false information, influencing public opinion and potentially undermining democratic processes.
They emphasized the importance of verifying information before sharing it online and urged citizens to be critical consumers of information found on social media platforms.
The lawmakers’ statements follow recent controversies involving the spread of misinformation related to the Duterte ICC trial and impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte. These events underscore the need for responsible social media engagement, according to Ortega and Adiong. They also noted the ongoing congressional investigation into the proliferation of fake news, highlighting the seriousness of the issue.
Ortega and Adiong stressed the importance of media literacy and critical thinking skills in navigating the complex information landscape of social media. They advocated for increased education and awareness campaigns to equip citizens with the tools to identify and combat misinformation.
The representatives concluded by emphasizing their commitment to fostering a more informed and responsible public discourse, urging citizens to prioritize facts and critical analysis when engaging with social media content.
They believe that a more fact-based approach to social media is essential for maintaining a healthy democracy.
