Wazzup Pilipinas!?
The recent hearings conducted by the House of Representatives' Tri-Committee (Tri-Comm) on the proliferation of fake news have brought to light a critical issue: the media's tendency to prioritize sensational confrontations over substantive discussions aimed at addressing misinformation.
Sensationalism Overshadowing Substance
During the second hearing on February 18, 2025, Ross Flores Del Rosario, founder of Wazzup Pilipinas, reiterated that the headlines were dominated by the heated exchange between Congressman Dante Marcoleta and a vlogger (first hearing held on February 4, 2025) and a high-ranking military official (second hearing on February 18, 2025). Similarly, the first hearing saw extensive coverage of the confrontation between Congressman Marcoleta and vlogger Atty. Ricky Tomotorgo. These high-profile clashes, while newsworthy, overshadowed the more structured and insightful inquiries led by Congressman Zia Adiong. Adiong's methodical questioning elicited essential information that are more crucial to understanding and combating the spread of fake news.
In the same vein, Congresswoman Geraldine Roman proposed the establishment of a "Digital Council," akin to an advertising council, tasked with evaluating vlogger content prior to its online publication. This proactive measure aims to curb the dissemination of disinformation at its source. Regrettably, such constructive proposals received minimal media attention compared to the sensational confrontations.
Media's Role in Shaping Public Discourse
The media wields significant influence in shaping public perception. By prioritizing sensational stories over in-depth policy discussions, media outlets may inadvertently foster a culture more captivated by controversy than by solutions. This trend is evident in the coverage of the recent hearings, where confrontations received prominent attention, while substantive policy proposals were relegated to the background.
Public Consumption Patterns
This media approach aligns with the consumption habits of many Filipinos, who often prefer content reminiscent of dramatic teleseryes over intellectual discourse. While engaging content is not inherently negative, an overemphasis on sensationalism can detract from the public's understanding of critical issues, such as the mechanisms and consequences of fake news.
The Path Forward
Addressing the fake news dilemma requires a multifaceted approach:
Balanced Media Reporting: Media outlets should strive for a balance between reporting sensational events and providing in-depth coverage of policy discussions and solutions.
Public Education: There is a need for programs that educate the public on media literacy, enabling consumers to discern between sensationalism and substantive information.
Legislative Measures: Proposals like Congresswoman Roman's Digital Council should be given due consideration, as they offer structural solutions to preempt the dissemination of fake news.
By shifting focus from sensationalism to substance, both media and the public can contribute to a more informed and resilient society, capable of tackling the challenges posed by misinformation.
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