The viruses

Reese Mikylla De Lima

Unfiltered | November 2, 2020

In The Manila Times’ 2nd Campus Journalism Congress titled "The Manila Times Campus Journalism Forum: Critical Thinking in Pursuit of Journalism Amid Critical Times" last October 30, 2020, speakers with wide experiences in journalism proved that Covid-19 pandemic is not a hindrance in prevailing the truth. Former Beijing Bureau Chief and speaker of the forum, Jaime Florcruz shared his experiences, views and opinions on Journalism. Together with other journalists around the Philippines who stood as the reactors for this event, they enlightened many current and aspiring journalists about their role and conflicts during this global crisis.

The wide spread of fake news and misinformation served as one of the main topics in the congress. With the modernization of technology, news can now be delivered quickly and cheaply using various social media platforms that resulted to inaccuracy of shared facts and information to the public.

The easy access to news and social websites gives everyone the opportunity to be journalists as well. With that comes the emergence of rumors, gossips, biased perceptions, and misleading data brought by people with hidden agendas.

"Fake news, rumors, conspiracy theories, disinformation (and) misinformation, they can kill too. They could cause fear and fear could trigger public panic and hysteria which then could lead to social and economic disruption, even deaths,” Mr. Florcruz said. He also stated that false news spread faster than truth because of human nature.

We are now exposed to the evil purposes of the society, in addition to the the spread of Covid-19, therefore rigorous fact-checking and critical thinking are very much important. It is up to readers and journalists to let the truth be empowered.

It is the worst and best time to be a journalist. Despite the limitations brought by this pandemic, it is a good opportunity to show why the media is so important in the lives of people. Being one comes with the responsiblity of being the people’s advocate during this harsh time.

According to Katrina Gonzales, Associate Editor of The Vasitarian, University of Santo Tomas, it is a journalist’s responsibility to let the truth unfold especially at a time where the truth is easily blurred out. Writers including the young ones should also serve as the voice of the voiceless.

As for readers and viewers of different news surrounding the country, open-mindedness is very much needed. Turn to credible media sources which have no disguised intentions except to eliminate the news truthfully and fearlessly.

Journalists and news consumers must maintain a balanced and healthy news diet, a good mix of information from diverse and various sources. Both should advocate news literacy to avoid further spread of wrong details.

The world is facing two viruses - the Covid-19 and the fake news. Despite these, there is no doubt that with people’s rational decisions through critical thinking and journalists’ integrity to make the truth be known, the victory against these issues is not impossible but rather foreseeable.