MAD seeks gov’t action vs fake news

The Movement Against Disinformation (MAD), a coalition committed to combating online disinformation, has called on the government to take a more proactive role in addressing the spread of fake news on social media.

“Government must take a proactive stance in the fight against disinformation,” said Atty. Christianne Grace Salonga, MAD’s executive director, during The Agenda forum held Friday at Club Filipino in Greenhills, San Juan City.

Salonga also appealed to vloggers and social media influencers to act responsibly and uphold ethical standards in their content.

“For the public good, there must be accountability. Guidelines or ethical standards must be in place for vloggers,” she said.

She explained that MAD, composed of individuals from the legal profession, civil society, academe, and various advocacy groups, adopts a multi-pronged approach to tackle online disinformation.

“We aim to hold disinformation peddlers accountable. They can’t just say anything, anytime, anywhere without consequences — especially when what they say isn’t based on truth. This must stop, not just for our sake, but for everyone’s,” Salonga stressed.

She also pointed out the role of social media platforms in amplifying harmful content, calling for changes to their algorithms and design.

“These platforms favor hateful, sensational, and harmful content. Informative, fact-based content Informative, fact-based content doesn’t get the same reach because it’s not as entertaining and doesn’t generate as many views, likes, or clicks. The playing field is clearly uneven,” she said.

“It’s high time we introduce some form of regulation. Vloggers should be factual and contribute positively to society,” she added.

While recognizing vloggers as part of the so-called fifth estate, Salonga acknowledged their role in democratizing information.

“They give ordinary people a voice, but with that freedom comes responsibility,” she said.