Legislator Warns of Growing Online Disinformation Threat to Social Cohesion

Social media has rapidly evolved to become the primary information source for countless news consumers worldwide, fundamentally altering how people receive and process current events. This shift brings significant challenges as inaccurate information and deliberate disinformation campaigns flourish in the digital landscape.

La Union First District Representative Francisco Paolo Ortega V has raised serious concerns about the proliferation of online disinformation, noting that its reach now extends to undermining credible international institutions.

“The sheer volume of disinformation is not just disturbing—it is humiliating. Umaabot na sa puntong pati and International Criminal Court (ICC), an international tribunal, ay nadadamay sa kasinungalingan,” Ortega said in a statement on March 18.

The lawmaker highlighted the concerning trend of anonymous accounts and questionable websites disseminating false information at an alarming rate. According to Ortega, this digital ecosystem allows misinformation to spread “like wildfire across the internet,” creating confusion and social division.

Media literacy experts support Ortega’s concerns, noting that disinformation campaigns have intensified in recent years, particularly across Southeast Asian nations where social media penetration continues to increase dramatically. The Philippines ranks among the world’s highest users of social platforms, with Filipinos spending an average of four hours daily on social media—significantly above global averages.

Ortega emphasized that citizens should exercise caution when consuming news, advising that trustworthy information typically originates from established government agencies, reputable media organizations, and recognized experts. He urged readers to approach sensational headlines with skepticism and to read full articles before forming opinions.

The growing sophistication of disinformation tactics presents additional challenges for ordinary citizens. Manipulated videos, known as “deepfakes,” and altered images have become increasingly realistic with advances in artificial intelligence technology. These developments make distinguishing authentic content from fabrications increasingly difficult for average users.

To combat this problem, Ortega recommends several practical verification strategies. Fact-checking information across multiple sources remains fundamental to identifying falsehoods. For potentially manipulated visual content, reverse image searches through services like Google Images can help determine authenticity. Organizations dedicated to fact-checking, such as Vera Files, provide valuable resources for verifying questionable claims.

“Many people were agitated by these misleading statements, and we must hold accountable those who are deliberately peddling fake news to manipulate public perception,” Ortega stated.

The legislator also pointed to unconscious public behavior that exacerbates the problem. The tendency to share content without verification significantly contributes to misinformation spread. Social media algorithms that prioritize engagement often amplify emotional or controversial content regardless of accuracy.

Ortega emphasized the distinction between legitimate differences of opinion and deliberate deception. “Hindi ito simpleng usapin ng opinyon—deliberate disinformation ito na sinasadyang lituhin ang publiko,” he added, stressing that disinformation represents intentional efforts to confuse citizens, not merely alternative viewpoints.

Media scholars note that the consequences of unchecked disinformation extend beyond momentary confusion. Sustained exposure to false information can degrade public trust in legitimate institutions, complicate policy discussions, and erode social cohesion.

Ultimately, Ortega called for individual responsibility in creating a more truthful information environment. By developing better verification habits, consulting reliable sources, and exercising restraint before sharing content, citizens can help limit the spread of harmful falsehoods.

As digital platforms continue evolving, the challenge of maintaining an informed citizenry will require ongoing collaboration between government officials, media organizations, technology platforms, and individual users.