MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon (July 21, 2025) — The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in northern Mindanao called on barangay leaders and frontline workers to take an active role in addressing disinformation and promoting accurate information during the Bagong Pilipinas Barangay Forum held July 17 in Barangay Can-ayan

The forum was organized in support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for transparent, responsive, and citizen-focused governance.

PIA Regional Head Franklin P. Gumapon stressed the role of local leaders, including barangay health workers (BHWs), peacekeeping officers, youth leaders, and council members, in maintaining the flow of accurate information in communities.

“The Bagong Pilipinas Barangay Forum shows that governance isn’t just about reforms—it’s about empowering citizens to uphold truth, build trust, and drive progress through responsible communication. Let’s work together to fight disinformation and ensure citizens receive the truth they deserve,” Gumapon said.

He discussed how local leaders can monitor community narratives, correct misleading claims, lead information campaigns, and collaborate with credible sources to address falsehoods.

Gumapon described false news as fabricated or misleading content presented in a seemingly legitimate format, often intended to deceive, confuse, or divide the public.

During a session titled “InfoWars: Battling False Information,” PIA Bukidnon Chief Ruby Leonora Balistoy encouraged participants to serve as “truth champions.” She conducted a lecture using real-life examples and facilitated discussions on identifying fake content and verifying information before sharing it.

Balistoy also shared visual materials and guides to assist communities in detecting and addressing online misinformation.

The session highlighted the impact of disinformation on public trust and service delivery, including health and education. Participants were taught to recognize deepfakes by identifying visual inconsistencies, verifying content with official sources, and using digital tools designed to detect manipulated media.

Balistoy explained that the initiative supports the development of media and information literacy (MIL) among local leaders and residents. The goal is to help communities evaluate information, respond appropriately, and ensure accurate and timely communication.

“At the grassroots, manipulated content can mislead the public, stir unrest, and erode trust in institutions. To push back, leaders must amplify official government posts, join info caravans, and share verified updates in barangay assemblies. You are not just Can-ayan’s BHWs, peacekeeping teams, youth leaders, and barangay officials. You are communicators. Through the information you share, you can inspire change and help build a stronger Bagong Pilipinas,” Balistoy said.

Barangay Councilor Abegail Cajardo welcomed the forum’s practical approach and cited the usefulness of tools such as fact-checking guides, e-report platforms, and steps to identify disinformation.

“It’s really heartening. This kind of forum helps us speak more clearly, act faster against false information, and connect better with our communities,” she said.

(JMC/KPRB/PIA-10/Bukidnon)