Summary
Highlights
The moderator introduces the panel discussion on the deepening crisis of disinformation. They highlight how disinformation not only disrupts social media and undermines news credibility but also impacts democratic processes, especially elections, and threatens the safety and security of journalists. The panel includes Ellen from Rappler, Sherwin from Northern Dispatch, and Steven Butler from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).
Steven Butler shares the 'Pizzagate' story from the US to illustrate how debunked fake news can still create lingering suspicion and estrangement. He notes that the press in the Philippines is under immense pressure, stemming from political situations, and expresses concern that things could worsen before upcoming elections, which are a dangerous time for journalists.
Panelists agree that disinformation has reached a crisis level, especially with elections just weeks away. Sherwin emphasizes that it has affected basic elements of democracy like free speech and the right to organize, citing instances where people's organizations were victims of disinformation campaigns by government entities, leading to forced operational shutdowns and false accusations.
Steven Butler discusses the regional and international trend of digital intimidation and an increase in disinformation on social media. He points out that disinformation campaigns are often successful because they unfortunately 'work.' He also criticizes governments attempting to legislate criminal penalties for fake news, often being the source of it themselves, and highlights the slow acceptance of responsibility by social media content companies as publishers, not just transmitters, of information.
Ellen and Sherwin discuss how their news organizations handle attacks from online trolls. While these attacks don't undermine their ability to produce news, they are unpleasant. They mention different approaches to dealing with trolls, from not feeding them to active engagement, and the importance of having social media guidelines. Sherwin describes selectively engaging with trolls and sometimes converting them into advocates.
Steven Butler elaborates on CPJ's report regarding increased intimidation and a shrinking space for free press in the Philippines. He points to legal cases against Rappler as technical violations rather than normal law enforcement, suggesting they are a message to all news organizations to discourage them from challenging establishment politicians, leading to self-censorship among journalists.
Panelists discuss how trolling and fake news have become acceptable campaign tactics in the 2019 elections. Ellen mentions efforts by groups like #FactsFirstPH to combat this, but notes the challenge when top candidates, some associated with disinformation, gain popularity. Sherwin explains how Northern Dispatch focuses on factual reporting to counter misleading information during elections, especially concerning local officials and projects.
A question is raised about whether the Philippines should implement criminal penalties for disinformation. Steven Butler strongly advises against it, calling it a 'bad idea' for governments to regulate this, as it can lead to abuse and jailing critics. Ellen agrees, stating that existing laws are sufficient and a new law could be 'worse than the disease,' advocating for education and media literacy instead.
An audience member inquires about the role of YouTube versus Facebook in the disinformation crisis. Ellen states that their research indicates YouTube is a significant platform for disinformation, particularly due to the appealing nature of video content, and questions YouTube's efforts compared to Facebook's fact-checking initiatives. Sherwin highlights that in Northern Luzon, Facebook and Twitter are common platforms, where fake accounts spread misinformation.
An audience member shares a personal anecdote about being 'red-tagged' virtually on Facebook and physically through distributed flyers. They highlight the difficulty of debunking physical disinformation compared to online misinformation, especially in Mindanao under martial law. This leads to a discussion of legal remedies like writs of Ampara and habeas data to protect individuals and remove false information.
The panelists offer concluding thoughts. Steven Butler summarizes that combating disinformation is an ongoing 'war' where one can win battles but there's no definitive end; it's about learning to live with it. Ellen emphasizes reclaiming the word 'red' from its negative connotations and, in response to the crisis level question, highlights rising death tolls and declining territory yet high presidential popularity, attributing this to disinformation.