The realm of communication is filled with complexity but no matter how people would perceive it, it remains imbued in the day-to-day survival of mankind and keeps the social structure alive.
However, with each second ticking, this field is confined with struggles, especially with the uncertainty of circumstances, and sprouting fake news. Here lies the challenge to beat these obstacles, and instead, magnify the great power it holds.
Like other localities in the country, the province of Lanao del Sur is not new to instances of disinformation, especially that this has been repetitively witnessed and viewed as bothersome. Thus, officials are persevering to finally overcome this concern with the emergence of dependable peddlers of true and accurate information.
Determined to shape reliable journalists and communicators in this province, the provincial government of Lanao del Sur has partnered with the Bangsamoro Watch Initiative, Inc. (BMWI) to lead a seminar and orientation on peace journalism, and strategic planning for Ranaw media and radio frequencies which delved into responsible journalism, and media following ethics and cultural sensitivity.
Here, BMWI President Abulkhair Alibasa stressed that fake news has often been fabricated to mislead, malign the public's confidence in the government, and cause widespread confusion on crucial matters.
While fake news has not been a new phenomenon, he underscored that this has posed a threat and risk as it intensifies conflict, and distrust people so that issues remain misconstrued.
With this, Alibasa emphasized that it would only be vital for the local media from different platforms, especially the two-way radio frequencies, to know and understand the principles of responsible reporting.
“This (seminar) will equip us with the necessary skills on how to effectively deliver information through two-way radio, incorporating the guidelines of clarity, brevity and structure,” he said.
Keeping up with the trend of responsible journalism
Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-10 Deputy Regional Director Apipa Bagumbaran explained that journalism means gathering and organizing factual information to make it into sensible news. She stated that journalists are indeed vital, especially since the public cannot be in the same place at the same time.
Following this, Bagumbaran highlighted the strong necessity to be reliable in every action carried out, particularly in crafting news, so as not to bring harm or chaos.
Expounding further, she mentioned that this is ethical reporting without manipulation and biases, and true and fair presentation of information, geared towards delivering a positive effect to the public..
Bagumbaran also underlined that any journalist or communicator should make sure that what is publicized is guaranteed to be accurate.
“Ang responsible sharing of information ay nagsisimula sa ating lahat. Before tayo magshare ng information, iverify muna natin ito,” she said.
(The responsible sharing of information starts with us. Before we share any information, let us verify it first.)
Mindanao State University (MSU)-Main Campus Meranaw Cultural Heritage Director Dr. Sorhaila Latiph-Yusoph, on the other hand, stressed that the media can make and unmake a man.
She conveyed that to be a responsible journalist, one should be meticulous in the choice of words to avoid stereotyping, check for blindspots that skew the truth, and most of all, lift all voices by contextualizing the story fully.
“We should remember that as creators of information, we shape media narratives. We are still a work in progress,” said Yusoph.
Responsible journalism making headway
The move for responsible journalism has fortunately gained grounds, garnering support from both the government and private stakeholders.
Inspiring all communicators and two-way radio groups in her province to continue countering disinformation and fighting for the truth, Lanao del Sur Provincial Information Officer Salma Jayne Tamano assured that the provincial government would keep on backing timely initiatives and fulfilling all relevant plans for next year.
This was attested by Public Information Officer Zhayra Ampuan who has detailed how the same matter was given importance by Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr.
She relayed that the governor has been desiring to strengthen the Lanao federation and two-way radio groups, seeing them beneficial for residents in their province.
“Napakaimportante ng ating two-way radio groups dahil kayo ang pinapakinggan ng karamihan dito sa Lanao del Sur,” said Ampuan.
(Two-way radio groups are important because they are the ones being listened to by most here in Lanao del Sur.)
After the program on responsible journalism has kicked off, optimism reigns for Lanao del Sur province as it looks forward to a warm future where ethical reporting is nurtured, and disinformation is left with no room. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)
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