MANILA (PIA)—The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with GMA Network for the campaign “Panata Kontra Fake News,” an initiative aimed at combating disinformation and misinformation as part of preparations for the upcoming May 2025 midterm elections.
The event was participated in by nearly 60 representatives from various media organizations, social media platforms, and academic institutions, emphasizing a united front against fake news.
GMA Network Chairman Atty. Felipe Gozon underscored the campaign’s significance, stating, “Fake news is both dangerous and harmful, but the truth is glorious and useful. It fosters an informed populace, essential for a functioning democracy and a stronger society. This lays the groundwork for transformative projects that enhance the lives of every Filipino.”
PUP President Manuel Muhi echoed this sentiment, highlighting the university’s commitment to partnering with credible media organizations like GMA Network. “We value these partnerships as they align with our core values of integrity, nationalism, and democracy,” Muhi said.
As an academic institution, PUP has recognized the vital role of accurate information in promoting excellence and upholding democratic values. By engaging in this advocacy, the university aims to empower the community to make informed decisions in the upcoming elections.
In addition to this partnership, PUP offers media and information literacy courses within its senior high school program. The university’s communication programs also include outreach initiatives aimed at assisting junior high schools in teaching media literacy.
Notably, the current Dean of the PUP College of Communication recently won the second prize in the Global Media and Information Literacy Awards from UNESCO.
The university’s Communication Management Office (CMO) leads efforts to ensure that timely and relevant information is disseminated to the community, reinforcing PUP’s commitment to helping develop an informed electorate. (JMP/PIA-NCR)
