Davao Breaking News - 2

15/01/2025

How political bickerings could spell doom for Davao Oriental

The ongoing budget impasse in the provincial government of Davao Oriental has revealed the devastating consequences of political maneuvering on governance, with Mati City enduring the heaviest burden.

Mayor Michelle Rabat’s call to action underscores the urgency of addressing this crisis, which has left ₱120 million in provincial funds unutilized, choking the flow of resources into the city.

Mayor Rabat’s decision to absorb displaced job order workers demonstrates her administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding livelihoods amid the budget deadlock.

However, with the number of job orders ballooning to 3,600 and the city’s monthly salary expenses soaring to ₱40 million, the financial strain on Mati’s coffers is unsustainable.

This temporary measure, though necessary, highlights the failure of the provincial government to fulfill its fundamental duty to its constituents.

The root cause of this crisis, as Mayor Rabat rightfully pointed out, lies in the political wrangling within the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

Members of the provincial board and Vice Governor themselves must bear the shame for their inaction and the resulting hardships inflicted on their constituents.

By prioritizing personal and political agendas over public welfare, they have turned the budget into a weapon of leverage, disregarding the needs of the people they were elected to serve.

This stalemate is not just a financial concern; it is a moral failure of leadership. The people of Mati and Davao Oriental deserve better than leaders who exploit their positions for partisan interests.

Mayor Rabat’s remarks should serve as a wake-up call for the provincial government to end this gridlock and put the welfare of their constituents above politics.

As the May 12 elections approach, the people of Mati and Davao Oriental must not forget the hardships they endured due to the negligence and political maneuvering of their leaders.

This election is an opportunity to hold them accountable and demand a government that prioritizes service and progress over selfish ambition.

The future of Mati and Davao Oriental rests on leadership that values governance over gamesmanship.

It is high time for decisive action to resolve this impasse, restore economic stability, and rebuild the trust of a people who deserve nothing less than leaders who truly serve their interests.

13/01/2025

MARCOS-ROMUALDEZ RIFT, SHOWING

The unceremonious replacement of Rep. Zaldy Co as Chairperson of the House Committee on Appropriations has further exposed the deepening rifts within Congress and the shifting political dynamics in Philippine politics.

The move, initiated by no less than presidential son and Majority Floor Leader Rep. Sandro Marcos, is particularly significant as Co is widely known to be a close ally of House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

This development raises questions about whether the Marcos-Romualdez alliance, once considered ironclad, is beginning to show signs of strain.

The Appropriations Committee wields immense power in determining the national budget, making its chairmanship a highly strategic and contested position.

Co's removal, officially attributed to health concerns, appears less about personal well-being and more about political maneuvering.

The fact that the motion to replace him came directly from Sandro Marcos suggests a broader effort by the Marcos camp to consolidate control over Congress, even at the expense of a staunch Romualdez ally.

This reshuffle also coincides with other political developments that highlight a recalibration of alliances.

The Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) Peace Rally, held on the same day as Co’s resignation, expressed support for President Bongbong Marcos Jr. (PBMM) and his opposition to any moves to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte.

While the rally was outwardly a show of unity, it underscored the underlying tensions between the Marcos, Duterte, and Romualdez factions.

Co’s removal could be interpreted as a power play by the Marcos camp to assert dominance over Congress and sideline figures seen as too closely aligned with Romualdez, who has faced questions about his own political ambitions.

Martin Romualdez, who is not only the House Speaker but also a cousin of PBMM, has long been viewed as one of the most influential figures in Philippine politics.

However, recent events suggest that even his allies, like Zaldy Co, are not immune to political realignments. Co’s ouster may signal a growing divide between Romualdez and the Marcos camp, as PBMM and his allies—led by Sandro Marcos—seek to tighten their grip on legislative power.

This development also reflects the broader breakdown of political alliances. The Duterte-Marcos partnership has long been fractured, and now cracks are beginning to emerge in the Marcos-Romualdez alliance.

Romualdez’s leadership in the House has often been seen as a balancing act, navigating the competing interests of various factions.

However, the removal of one of his closest allies from such a key position suggests that this balancing act may no longer hold, as the Marcos bloc consolidates its power.

If Co’s removal was orchestrated as a political maneuver, it reveals the intense factionalism within the administration. The move underscores how governance in the Philippines often takes a backseat to political survival and power consolidation.

The involvement of Sandro Marcos, a rising political figure and key player in Congress, further highlights the role of the president’s inner circle in shaping legislative decisions.

For Speaker Romualdez, the loss of an ally like Co could be a significant blow to his influence in the House. It also raises questions about the future of his relationship with the Marcos administration.

If the removal of Co is part of a broader effort to marginalize Romualdez’s camp, it could mark the beginning of a more overt power struggle within Congress—one that could have far-reaching implications for the administration’s legislative agenda.

Ultimately, the replacement of Zaldy Co, a known minion of Martin Romualdez, signals a shifting balance of power in Philippine politics.

The Marcos camp, led by Sandro Marcos, appears intent on asserting its dominance, even if it means sidelining allies of the House Speaker.

This move not only reflects the factionalism within the ruling coalition but also serves as a reminder of the fragile and transactional nature of political alliances in the Philippines.

As these power struggles unfold, the question remains whether the government can maintain focus on governance amid the backdrop of growing political infighting.

13/01/2025

A Question of Numbers—Sara Duterte, INC, and the SWS Survey

Former Senator Leila de Lima’s attempt to link the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) rally to a recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey calling for Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment raises important questions—but not in the way she intended.

While the SWS survey claims that 41% of its 2,160 respondents favor impeachment, this figure pales in comparison to the overwhelming show of support for Duterte seen in the INC’s peace rallies, which drew around 2 million attendees nationwide.

The contrast between the two metrics is glaring. A survey with just over 2,000 respondents cannot reasonably outweigh the voice of millions who showed up in INC-led rallies to express their support for both Vice President Duterte and President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

Surveys, while useful for gauging public opinion, are inherently limited in scope, relying on small, selected samples. They cannot fully capture the sentiment of an entire nation, particularly in politically complex contexts like this one.

The INC rallies, on the other hand, are a visual, undeniable representation of grassroots support. The fact that millions participated in various parts of the country shows that many Filipinos still place their trust in VP Duterte, despite the allegations thrown her way.

This kind of massive mobilization reflects a deep sense of solidarity and belief in her leadership—a sentiment far more difficult to dismiss than a survey’s percentage.

De Lima’s assertion that the survey reflects “most Filipinos” is misleading at best. It’s important to note that the SWS survey sampled a minuscule fraction of the population—roughly 0.002% of the Filipino citizenry.

Can this truly represent the majority opinion of 113 million Filipinos? The methodology of surveys must always be questioned, particularly when their results are used to push narratives that are inconsistent with larger, observable realities such as the INC rallies.

The INC peace rally wasn’t just about numbers; it was also about the values of unity, solidarity, and trust in the current administration. It provided a platform for ordinary Filipinos to express their collective voice in support of VP Sara Duterte and the stability of the government.

Unlike the divisive interpretation of the SWS survey results, the rally showcased Filipinos standing together, advocating for peace and unity.

Instead of focusing on selective surveys and divisive rhetoric, we should ask: what truly reflects the will of the people?

Millions of Filipinos joining a massive, nationwide rally for unity and support of VP Duterte speak volumes about public sentiment.

These are citizens who took time to mobilize and attend—not just answer questions in a controlled survey setting. Their action is a stronger, more compelling expression of public opinion.

The ongoing debate surrounding VP Sara Duterte should not be reduced to survey percentages or attempts to pit one segment of society against another.

The INC rally proves that VP Duterte continues to enjoy the trust and confidence of many Filipinos, especially those willing to actively demonstrate their support.

This is a reality that cannot be dismissed or overshadowed by numbers from a survey that only scratches the surface of public sentiment.

In the end, leadership is not defined by polls alone. It is demonstrated through action, public trust, and the ability to unite people during challenging times.

VP Sara Duterte, through her firm resolve and continued service, has shown that she remains a leader who inspires solidarity among Filipinos—and the millions who stood behind her in the INC rallies are proof of this enduring trust.

De Lima claims Iglesia rally is “pro-VP Sara and anti-impeachment action”
by Ronald Siongco/GDM

Mamamayang Liberal (ML) party-list first nominee and former Senator Leila de Lima agrees with the sentiments of some sectors that the Iglesia ni Cristo’s (INC) ongoing National Rally for Peace is allegedly a show of support to embattled Vice President Sara Duterte who is facing three impeachment complaints.

“I certainly agree. Let’s call a spade a spade because well, they said that it is a rally for peace and unity. And they also said that it is in support of PBBM’s position that impeachment would not be proper at this point. You know he is against impeachment. So, it’s basically and essentially a pro-VP Sara and anti-impeachment action,” claims de Lima in an online interview streamed on Monday, January 13, 2025.

De Lima is referring to the “opinion” issued by President Bongbong Marcos in December 2024 when he said that Congress should not hold impeachment proceedings against Duterte because it is “not important” and is a “waste of time.”

The ex-lawmaker noted INC’s massive gathering should be tied up with Social Weather Stations’ (SWS) recent commissioned survey where 41% out of 2,160 adult respondents agreed that Duterte should be impeached.

“We have to tie this up to the survey results. The survey results clearly say that most Filipinos would prefer impeaching VP Sara at this point as against the position that you just let go of these allegations against VP Sara,” she says.

“This INC rally may be able to really have great numbers on the streets for purposes of that supposedly peace and unity. But it’s still supporting a minority position and no matter how massive the crowd would be, it’s still a minority. A minority position is a minority,” she points out.

De Lima believes members of the House of Representatives would consider the SWS’ survey results once they tackle the impeachment complaints upon the resumption of Congress’ sessions today.

She also thinks INC’s rally will have no impact unless they exercise their right not to vote for “pro-impeachment congressmen” who are seeking reelection in the coming May 2025 midterm elections.

“So unless the INC would back up its rally with the threat not to deliver the so-called bloc votes to pro-impeachment congressmen then I’m not seeing much effect of this action in order to push for the impeachment of VP Sara,” she says.

Thousands of INC members have flocked in packed venues in key cities nationwide for their peace rallies.

In Duterte’s hometown in Davao City, around 150,000 attendees have shown up at the San Pedro Square here as of 9 am, according to a report by PTV Davao.

Meanwhile, the number of attendees at INC’s main rally in Quirino Grandstand in Manila have already hit 1.5 million as reported by Net25.

13/01/2025

13/01/2025

12/01/2025

A Test of Conviction Amid the INC Peace Rally

The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) Peace Rally taking place today in Davao, Cebu, and Manila is an unprecedented display of solidarity, with millions of members and supporters coming together in a unified voice.

At the heart of this massive demonstration is a clear message: a resolute stand against the impeachment efforts targeting Vice President Sara Duterte.

This event is a striking reminder of the INC's unique position as both a religious and political force in the country, capable of mobilizing vast numbers in support of its causes.

The size and scale of the rally demand attention. It is not merely a gathering of INC members but also a convergence of individuals who believe in and support the Vice President.

This raises crucial questions for the members of the House of Representatives, especially those at the forefront of the impeachment process.

What do they make of this remarkable show of force? Are they prepared to stand firm in their decisions, or has the magnitude of the INC’s mobilization caused them to pause and reconsider? Are they afraid of what this collective power represents—a clear and unwavering endorsement of VP Sara’s leadership?

This moment is a litmus test for our lawmakers. The impeachment process is intended to uphold accountability, integrity, and justice within public office.

If the case against the Vice President is truly rooted in merit and evidence, it should proceed without fear of external pressures, no matter how immense.

However, if the impeachment charges lack a solid foundation, this unprecedented public outpouring of support will serve as a rallying cry not only for INC members but for all who value fairness and democracy.

The INC Peace Rally transcends mere advocacy; it is a demonstration of how deeply intertwined faith, governance, and public sentiment are in the Philippines.

The INC’s ability to bring millions into the streets shows the significant role it plays in shaping political discourse and influencing decision-making. Lawmakers, therefore, cannot dismiss or diminish the importance of this moment.

They must ask themselves: are they acting out of genuine conviction, or are they swayed by partisan interests? Will their decisions withstand not just legal scrutiny but also the scrutiny of a nation watching their every move?

Moreover, this rally reminds us that public opinion matters in governance. The Vice President’s supporters view this as an attack not just on her but on the broader vision she represents.

For her critics, the challenge is clear: to prove that their actions are not politically motivated but rather aligned with the principles of justice and good governance.

For her supporters, today’s rally signals an unshakable commitment to defend her against what they perceive as an unjust attack.

To the members of the House of Representatives, this is not a time to hide behind the curtains of political maneuvering. The millions gathered today demand clarity, courage, and accountability.

The public is watching—INC members, VP Sara’s allies, and even neutral observers who seek to understand the true motivations behind the impeachment.

This is a defining moment for the country's democratic processes, a test of whether our institutions can function independently amidst political and social pressures.

The INC Peace Rally is a powerful reminder of the delicate balance between democracy and public sentiment.

It is both a show of force and a call for reflection—a moment that challenges lawmakers to act with integrity and for the nation to remain vigilant in defending its democratic principles.

11/01/2025

𝐑𝐞𝐩. 𝐃𝐮𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐞 𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐢𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐨 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐬

Four hundred three families of Barangay Matina Pangi, affected by a flood brought about by the recent localized thunderstorm, received relief assistance from Rep. Paolo Duterte’s office on Thursday and Friday.

The lawmaker’s team led by his son, Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II, distributed food packs containing rice, canned goods, and other essentials, and cash assistance to flood victims at Purok 1-A, Purok 3-A, Purok 11-A, and Purok 12-A of the Matina Pangi.

Rigo said they have been providing aid to barangays impacted by the recent flooding to guarantee that support directly reaches affected families. He also expressed his sympathy and urged the residents to stay calm and ready.

Office of Civil Defense–11 earlier reported that localized thunderstorms on January 4 impacted around 2,000 individuals due to heavy rainfall that led to flooding in several areas of Matina Pangi, Crossing, and Aplaya.

Karlo Alexie Puerto, information officer of the OCD–11, said five houses were destroyed, while 15 others were partially damaged, mainly in Pangi, following the flood. He warned residents in high-risk areas to expect more rains until March. # # #

10/01/2025

The Iglesia ni Cristo Peace Rally and Its Implications for Political Power Dynamics

The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) peace rally scheduled for January 13, reportedly in support of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s (PBBM) stand against the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, is more than just a religious gathering.

Beneath its surface lies a calculated display of political power, one that carries implications not just for the President and Vice President, but more critically, for the lawmakers who ultimately hold the keys to any impeachment proceedings.

While Duterte supporters frame the rally as solely in support of the Vice President, insiders hint at a broader agenda.

Reports suggest that PBBM may be invited to grace the event, further reinforcing the notion that the INC’s rally serves as a show of strength aimed at quelling any perceived cracks in the alliance between Marcos and Duterte.

But while the event projects unity at the top, it is not the President who should be most concerned about this public display of force—it is the members of Congress.

The INC has long wielded significant political influence in the Philippines, primarily due to its bloc-voting power. Politicians, particularly those in Congress, are acutely aware of the weight the INC carries during elections.

A peace rally of this magnitude, with its implicit political undertones, sends a clear message to lawmakers who might be considering supporting the impeachment of Duterte: the INC is watching, and they stand firmly behind the Vice President.

For congressmen, whose political survival often hinges on maintaining favor with influential groups like the INC, this rally is a stark reminder of the potential electoral consequences of opposing the INC’s interests or allies.

The group’s ability to mobilize large numbers and deliver votes during elections makes it a force to be reckoned with.

The rally, therefore, serves as a veiled warning to those who might be tempted to support any political maneuver against Duterte.

The message is clear: the INC’s backing of the Vice President could translate into significant political consequences for anyone who opposes her.

For PBBM, the rally presents both an opportunity and a challenge. If he chooses to attend, it would project an image of solidarity between him and Duterte, addressing rumors of tension between their camps.

However, it might also highlight the INC’s capacity to influence political dynamics, which could overshadow his leadership and leave the impression that external forces are propping up this unity.

If he declines, it could fuel speculations of cracks in their alliance and embolden opposition forces.

Meanwhile, for VP Duterte, the rally is a clear signal of her enduring grassroots and institutional support.

It fortifies her position and reminds her critics, particularly in Congress, that any attempts to unseat her would not only face public backlash but also the wrath of one of the most powerful religious groups in the country.

The real power struggle, therefore, lies not between PBBM and Duterte, but between Duterte’s supporters and the congressmen who may be contemplating impeachment proceedings.

The INC’s involvement significantly raises the stakes, making it clear that this is not just a political battle, but one with far-reaching electoral consequences.

For the Filipino public, the rally highlights once again the deep entanglement of religion and politics in the country.

While INC’s stated purpose is to promote peace, the event’s political undertones are hard to ignore.

It is a reminder of how groups with significant influence can shape not just political discourse, but also the decisions of lawmakers who are tasked with upholding democratic processes.

As the rally unfolds, its success will not just be measured by the size of the crowd or the speeches delivered.

Its true impact will be seen in the halls of Congress, where the fear of losing political capital may weigh more heavily than any arguments for or against the impeachment of a sitting Vice President.

This is where the INC’s power play may truly tip the scales, leaving lawmakers to navigate the precarious balance between serving their constituents and securing their political futures.

10/01/2025

The "Talk to Troops" events featuring former President Rodrigo Duterte and House Speaker Martin Romualdez present an interesting contrast in leadership styles and potential motivations.

These occasions, traditionally led by the Commander-in-Chief, are significant for boosting troop morale and reinforcing the government's recognition of the military's critical role.

However, Speaker Romualdez's participation adds layers of interpretation and raises both opportunities and concerns.

Under former President Duterte, such engagements were marked by his direct and commanding approach as the nation’s leader. His presence as Commander-in-Chief during these events carried an authoritative weight, reinforcing his administration's priorities on national security and fostering a strong connection with the armed forces.

Duterte’s straightforward style resonated well, solidifying trust and unity between the military and the executive branch.

In contrast, Speaker Martin Romualdez’s participation in a similar event may reflect a legislative leader’s effort to extend recognition and support to the armed forces.

This can be seen as a commendable move, signaling collaboration across government branches. It also underscores his acknowledgment of the military's sacrifices, which is essential for national stability and security.

However, the optics of his role in such an event, particularly the prominence of his image on the backdrop, invite speculation about the underlying motives.

Critics might argue that this is an overreach for a legislative figure, blurring the lines of authority traditionally reserved for the executive branch.

It could even be interpreted as a political move, signaling potential aspirations for higher office. By addressing the military in such a manner, Romualdez might be positioning himself as a national leader with the stature and influence to command troops, which could be construed as a prelude to a presidential bid.

This interpretation gains traction considering the political weight the armed forces carry in terms of public perception and governance.

On the other hand, supporters may view this as an innovative approach to leadership—a speaker stepping beyond legislative confines to directly connect with sectors critical to the country's welfare.

It could also be argued that Romualdez’s initiative reflects a modern and inclusive form of governance where support for the military extends beyond the presidency.

Speaker Romualdez’s involvement in a "Talk to Troops" event can be viewed through multiple lenses: a genuine act of recognition for the military, a strategic move to assert leadership, or even a calculated step toward political ambitions.

While the intent remains speculative, the act itself is a reminder of the nuanced balance between leadership roles, public service, and political maneuvering in the country’s complex political landscape.

Ultimately, how the public and military interpret these actions will determine their impact on his political trajectory.

09/01/2025

Hello congressman/woman, magtanong lang sana ako kung gaano katotoo ito?

09/01/2025

𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐨 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞-𝐭𝐨-𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬, 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐬𝐤𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐉𝐚𝐧 13 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐝𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐍𝐂 𝐩𝐫𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫 𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲

In preparation for the upcoming Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) peace rally in Davao City on January 13, the City Government of Davao has issued Proclamation No. 01, Series of 2025. The proclamation suspends face-to-face classes at all levels in both public and private schools and mandates a skeleton workforce in all national and local government offices, including GOCCs.

This measure aims to ensure public order, safety, and the convenience of Dabawenyos as ten (10) major streets within the city's business district will be temporarily closed during the conduct of the peace rally.

Proclamation No. 01 cites Section 16 of RA 7160 or the Local Government Code of 1991 granting the local government unit powers necessary to ensure and support the promotion of health and safety, maintenance of peace and order, and preservation of comfort and convenience of their inhabitants.

Moreover, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Legal Opinion No. 2, series of 2015 states that LGUs can declare work and class suspension to ensure public order and convenience.

Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO) head Angel Sumagaysay said that the suspension of work and classes on January 13 will help manage traffic and ensure the convenience of Dabawenyos especially those working or studying within the event areas.

"INC said that the event will push through, rain or shine. We expect over 300,000 participants on Monday coming into the city and converging within the downtown area, which will result to traffic and congestion. While we have a full traffic and security plan in place, the suspension of work and classes will be helpful. We can avoid inconvenience among students and employees in the city. This will also allow us to focus on the security of the people directly participating in the rally," Sumagaysay said

Meanwhile, the city government also encourages private offices and establishments in the areas affected by the peace rally to suspend work or adopt work-from-home arrangements for the convenience of their employees.

via Davao CIO

09/01/2025

Why Meta’s Concerns About Fact-Checkers Hold Weight in the Philippine Context

Meta’s recent assertion that fact-checkers might be part of the problem in managing misinformation has sparked widespread debate. While fact-checking is undeniably crucial in combating the spread of falsehoods, Meta’s perspective sheds light on a legitimate issue: the limitations and challenges of fact-checking in ensuring fairness and accuracy in a complex digital landscape like the Philippines.

In the Philippine context, fact-checkers have taken on the massive task of combating misinformation on social media, especially during critical moments like elections.

However, fact-checking has its flaws, which Meta may be right to highlight.

For one, fact-checking organizations often focus on prominent or trending issues, leaving countless other pieces of misinformation unchecked. In a country as socially diverse and politically fragmented as the Philippines, this selective attention can create perceptions of bias, particularly among groups whose narratives are scrutinized more closely.

Secondly, many Filipinos view fact-checkers with skepticism, particularly when their findings align with certain political narratives. Accusations of bias, whether justified or not, have tarnished the credibility of fact-checkers, leading to further distrust among the public. This makes the fact-checking process itself a source of division rather than clarity.

Fact-checkers also cannot keep up with the speed and volume of misinformation circulating on platforms like Facebook. In the Philippines, where social media is dominated by billions of posts and shares, human fact-checkers simply cannot handle the scale of the problem. Meta’s point highlights a systemic issue: overreliance on fact-checkers to address a challenge that requires broader solutions.

Meta’s stand underscores that misinformation is a systemic problem that cannot be solved by fact-checkers alone. Social media platforms, users, governments, and fact-checkers must work together to address the root causes. Fact-checkers are reactive by design—they debunk claims after they’ve already spread. This delay allows misinformation to gain traction, especially in a fast-moving digital space like Facebook.

Meta’s argument may also suggest that fact-checking should not be the sole or primary solution. Instead, a more comprehensive approach is needed, including:

1. Improved Algorithms: Platforms like Facebook can strengthen their algorithms to detect and limit the spread of misinformation before it reaches users.
2. Community Involvement: Educating users on how to identify and report false information can reduce dependence on fact-checkers.
3. Policy Reforms: Governments can enact laws that target the sources of misinformation, such as troll farms and disinformation campaigns.

Fact-checking organizations themselves must be held accountable for their processes. In the Philippines, transparency in how fact-checkers choose topics, validate claims, and publish findings is essential to ensure public trust.

If fact-checkers are perceived as biased or politically motivated, their efforts may inadvertently deepen misinformation instead of curbing it.

While Meta’s critique of fact-checkers is valid, the platform cannot escape its share of accountability.

As the gatekeeper of digital spaces, Meta has the tools and resources to address misinformation proactively by enhancing content moderation systems that scale better than manual fact-checking; supporting education campaigns in countries like the Philippines to improve digital literacy; and partnering with governments and local organizations to understand cultural and regional contexts better.

Meta’s stand however isn’t about discrediting fact-checkers—it’s about acknowledging their limitations.

The fight against misinformation in the Philippines requires a balance of technological innovation, regulatory support, and community engagement. Fact-checkers are an important part of this ecosystem, but they cannot be the only solution.

If Meta and its critics can move beyond blame and work collaboratively to strengthen the system, the Philippines stands to benefit from a healthier, more informed digital environment.

In this light, Meta’s critique opens the door to important conversations about accountability, collaboration, and the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in combating misinformation.