DEBUNK LIES
We believe that without facts, there can be no integrity of democratic institutions. In order to sustain democracy, the people need accurate information on which to base their decisions, to weigh the merits of their choices, and to have reliable media platforms where issues can be explored and discussed freely.
Therefore, we agree to fact-check spurious, dubious, and false claims, to support the efforts of fact-checkers in flagging lies, and to promote credible sources of information.
AMPLIFY FACTS
We believe it is important to work together to promote verified informative content and flag deceptive disinformation within our communities and to make sure that fact-checks reach the broadest audiences possible.
Therefore, we agree to work with various sectors to promote fact-checks and help the public understand the value of fact-checking, for communities to be more discerning and involved in assessing and monitoring content about pressing and substantive issues of the day on their own social media feeds. We also agree to help the public understand the role independent journalists and newsrooms play in a healthy information ecosystem.
EXPOSE DISINFORMATION ACTORS AND NARRATIVES
We believe it is important to dig deeper into disinformation narratives and to expose actors involved in information operations. Therefore, we agree to produce, publish, or support research around disinformation and online harassment.
HOLD PERPETRATORS AND ENABLERS ACCOUNTABLE
We believe that sources and spreaders of disinformation should be held liable under laws for manipulating information. The algorithmic amplification of disinformation should be stopped.
Therefore, we agree to work together to hold accountable the sources and spreaders of disinformation, particularly those that cause and enable online harm and harassment, whether directly or indirectly, against any Filipino. We also agree to work with, but also push back against, platforms that tolerate the spread of disinformation and/or use algorithms that encourage and amplify hate and disinformation.
PROTECT TRUTH-TELLERS
Persistent attacks have crippled the press, human rights groups, among others - critical action is needed. The overall decline not just in trust, but in reach, by news organizations in the Philippines despite its crucial role in a democracy, is a cause for concern.
Therefore, we agree to support credible and independent news organizations and fact-check groups involved in fighting disinformation by reporting findings and providing recommendations for action by platforms and other authorities; and to work with legal partners by identifying cases for strategic action, and formulate proposals for legal reform.
INCREASE AWARENESS
It is essential that people, especially at the grassroots level, are aware that there are remedies and recourse in case of human rights violations arising directly or indirectly from online disinformation.
Therefore, we agree to support, conduct, and hold education and information drives to increase awareness about the harmful effects of disinformation and what remedies and steps can be taken to hold those responsible, whether directly or indirectly, to account.
PROTECT DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS BY FIGHTING DISINFORMATION
It is important to publicly repudiate those who deliberately use disinformation tactics to further their own goals. We believe that disinformation is a devious fraud foisted upon the people.
Therefore to sustain democracy, we will answer everyone’s need for accurate information on which to base their decisions, to weigh the merits of their choices, and to have reliable media platforms where issues can be explored and discussed freely.
It is for the above-mentioned reasons that we have assembled to form this collaboration. We also enjoin more citizens to join our cause towards a future that is free from disinformation.
#FactsFirstPH
