Quezon City has been named one of UNESCO’s Pilot Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Cities, recognizing its efforts to strengthen critical thinking, truth-seeking, and informed citizenship across governance, education, culture, and technology.

The announcement places Quezon City in an international network of cities promoting media and information literacy as a core component of sustainable and democratic development. Other pilot MIL Cities include Malabon (Philippines), Jambi (Indonesia), Dubrovnik (Croatia), Athens (Greece), Al Rayyan (Qatar), Ramallah (Palestine), Santos and São Gonçalo do Amarante (Brazil), Copán (Honduras), Johannesburg (South Africa), and Abuja (Nigeria).

Mayor Joy Belmonte highlighted the urgency of combating misinformation and disinformation, describing them as global challenges that undermine democracy and public trust. Speaking at the Philippine Media and Information Literacy Conference (MILCON 2025) held on 4 November at SMX Aura, Belmonte underscored the need for strong information literacy, noting that over 24 million Filipinos remain functionally illiterate.

“These days, the most vital skill we can cultivate is how to think—the discipline of asking ‘why’ and ‘what if,’ especially when faced with complex situations,” Belmonte said.

Quezon City has made MIL central to its governance strategy. The city allocated P6 billion—or 15 percent of its 2025 budget—to education, meeting UNESCO’s benchmark for ideal government spending. The investment covers school infrastructure, scholarship programs, and support for Quezon City University, where more than half of graduates are the first in their families to earn a college degree.

Belmonte also announced ongoing talks with The New York Times Company for a citywide debate competition aimed at sharpening students’ reasoning and public speaking skills.

To widen access to public information, the city has expanded its digital platforms, including a Facebook page with over 1.4 million followers and a city website equipped with text-to-speech and chatbot tools for persons with disabilities.

“Our goal is not only to fight misinformation but to empower citizens with the skills and confidence to seek truth, question power, and participate meaningfully in public life,” Belmonte said.

Quezon City’s recognition builds on programs promoting cultural literacy and creative expression, such as digital storytelling initiatives, heritage and library developments, and the Maki+ Fiesta Media Festival. The city also hosts the QCinema International Film Festival and has been named a UNESCO Creative City of Film.

“By becoming a UNESCO Media and Information Literacy City, we affirm our commitment to building a community that does not only rely on stars, but one that shines with wisdom, integrity, and truth,” Belmonte said.

The city will soon establish an official body to develop and implement MIL programs in schools, communities, and public institutions, formalizing its full designation under the UNESCO Media and Information Literacy Cities Initiative.