Wazzup Pilipinas!?
In the digital age, where a single click can shape public opinion, the responsibility of content creators to uphold truth has never been more crucial. Yet, many pro-Duterte vloggers—collectively known as the DDS (Diehard Duterte Supporters)—have repeatedly peddled misinformation, distorting public discourse for political gain. These vloggers, instead of informing the public, have chosen to manufacture narratives, manipulate facts, and spread fake news that endangers democracy itself. Their actions demand accountability, and an apology is the bare minimum.
The Noam Chomsky Doctrine: A Call to Expose Lies
Renowned intellectual Noam Chomsky once said, “The responsibility of intellectuals is to speak the truth and expose lies.” This statement underscores a fundamental truth—those who wield influence, whether as journalists, scholars, or content creators, must champion facts and resist the temptation to propagate deception.
The DDS vloggers, however, have done the exact opposite. They have used their platforms to twist reality, attack political critics, and elevate falsehoods as truth. By doing so, they have not only eroded public trust but have also contributed to a culture where deception thrives unchecked.
The Consequences of Fake News: A Society in Decline
The widespread misinformation spread by these vloggers has had real-world consequences:
Political Polarization – By promoting disinformation, they have deepened societal divisions, turning public discourse into a battleground of lies rather than a space for reasoned debate.
Historical Distortion – From revising Martial Law atrocities to downplaying human rights violations, they have rewritten history to serve the interests of the powerful.
Threats to Democracy – Misinformation fuels populist authoritarianism. By attacking the media and institutions that uphold accountability, these vloggers weaken democracy’s foundations.
Public Manipulation – Many Filipinos, trusting these influencers, have unknowingly been misled, making decisions based on falsehoods rather than facts.
Why an Apology Matters
Acknowledging wrongdoing is not just about restoring credibility—it is about reaffirming that truth still matters. If these vloggers are truly committed to serving the public, they must own up to their mistakes, retract their false statements, and pledge to uphold journalistic integrity moving forward.
Their failure to do so will only confirm what many already suspect: that their loyalty lies not with the truth, but with those who benefit from lies.
The Need for Fact-Checking and Reliable Sources
In contrast to these disinformation peddlers, responsible journalism and intellectual discourse rely on credible sources, verified data, and accountability. The public must be vigilant in identifying reliable information:
Trust reputable news organizations that adhere to ethical journalism standards.
Cross-check information before sharing it online.
Support independent media that prioritizes investigative reporting over political propaganda.
A Final Plea: Choose Truth Over Deception
The fight against disinformation is not just the responsibility of journalists or fact-checkers—it is a battle every citizen must engage in. As Noam Chomsky urged, silence in the face of lies is complicity. The DDS vloggers must be held accountable, and the public must demand better.
The truth deserves defenders. Will you be one of them?
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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