By: Heaven Rose Espora, Associate Editor of The Paulletin
On November 19, 2024, the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) hosted a forum called “#AmbagNatin: Championing Facts for an Informed Choice” at the UPV Little Theater. The forum, organized by Rappler, brought together journalists, academicians, and student leaders to discuss the importance of reliable information in elections.
The event emphasized the need for voters to make informed decisions to protect democratic values. Dr. Clement C. Camposano, Chancellor of UP Visayas, highlighted the urgency of combating misinformation, stating that a well-informed public is essential for a healthy democracy.
Gemma B. Mendoza, Rappler’s Disinformation and Platforms Lead Researcher, addressed the importance of using credible sources of information, especially during elections. She pointed out a concerning trend of people relying on social media and content creators for news instead of traditional news websites. This shift has led to financial struggles for newsrooms, resulting in job losses for many journalists. Mendoza warned that the decline in trust in credible journalism weakens the electorate’s ability to make informed choices. She emphasized the vital role of accurate and reliable information in selecting competent leaders.
Francis Angelo, Editor-in-Chief of the Daily Guardian, spoke about how to make sure accurate information continues to be available during the Iloilo elections. He shared practical ways to identify reliable information and highlighted the challenges faced by local journalists in fighting misinformation. Angelo also talked about how people in Iloilo get their news and information, emphasizing the need for local communities to support trustworthy media outlets.
The forum concluded with a panel discussion moderated by Rappler multimedia reporter Dwight de Leon. The panel focused on how the accuracy of information can influence election results. Participants included Francis Angelo, Gemma Mendoza, Katherine Valencia (Chairperson of the Division of Humanities at UPV Miagao), Franco Miguel Nodado (Editor-in-Chief of Vital Signs), and Jaztine Claire Marcial (President of Lente UP Visayas Chapter). They discussed media literacy, the role of institutions in building trust in journalism, and the responsibility of citizens to stop the spread of misinformation. The panelists stressed that maintaining information integrity requires vigilance, collaboration, and a strong commitment to truth.
#AmbagNatin highlighted the importance of facts in shaping a better future, especially during elections. The forum emphasized the shared responsibility of citizens, media, and institutions in protecting democracy by promoting credible information. As the country prepares for another election season, the forum served as a reminder that informed choices are not only empowering but essential for a thriving democracy.