Public Administration Society officers held a talk on “Safeguarding Elections from Misinformation” on April 2 at the Bukidnon State University Talakag Satellite Campus, with first- to third-year public administration students in attendance. (Photo courtesy of BSU Talakag)
TALAKAG, Bukidnon (PIA) — Bukidnon State University (BSU) Talakag satellite campus held a forum on “Safeguarding Elections from Misinformation” on April 2, stressing the importance of fact-checking in ensuring fair elections.
“Strengthening fact-checking initiatives is vital in combating misinformation, as it provides voters with accurate information and debunks false claims,” said Recthie Paculba, information officer at the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 10. “Tools like Social Searcher, Text ClaimBuster, and image and video verification tools can be instrumental in this effort, ensuring that voters have access to reliable information.”
Paculba emphasized that the goal of safeguarding elections from misinformation is to ensure voters have access to accurate and reliable information. “This task involves implementing strategies that protect the electoral process from deceptive practices that can undermine democracy,” she added.
She outlined strategies to combat misinformation, including media literacy education, transparent voting, stronger fact-checking initiatives, and regulating artificial intelligence in campaigns.
Paculba also emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration among stakeholders, creating quick response systems, enforcing laws against fake news, and promoting responsible social media use.
Campus head Dan Dave Abaton urged students to take a stand against the spread of misinformation, which often circulates on social media.
“This election serves as a catalyst for change, and it is our duty to fight against misinformation that spreads through social media and influences public opinion,” he stated, calling on students to commit to fact-checking and responsible sharing of information.
Abaton also highlighted the role of citizens in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process, ensuring that every voice is heard.
Eva Sisles, chair of the Bachelor of Public Administration Program, commended the Public Administration Society (PAS) officers and their adviser for organizing the event. She expressed hope that the students would apply the valuable insights from the discussion.
The event, in observance of Public Administration Society Day, was attended by first- to third-year public administration students, reinforcing the importance of informed involvement in safeguarding democracy. (PIA-10)
