The College of Development Communication (CDC) kicked off its efforts for the upcoming 2025 Midterm Elections through the forum titled “Political Reportage in the Age of Disinformation” held on 25 November 2024 at the UPLB ICOPED Auditorium. Part of CDC’c college-wide Bantay Halalan Laguna extension and public service program, the forum featured experts from the academe and industry.
The first speaker was Asst. Prof. Miguel Enrico G. Ayson of the UPLB Department of Social Sciences (DSS), who addressed the history of politics in the country, highlighting various issues such as the rise of political dynasties and corruption. He also presented a rundown of the different government positions open for votation. Finally, he analyzed current political events and their implications.
“The office holders must abide by their campaign statements, in other words the idea of democratic accountability…if you fail to do that, you can be outvoted during the next election cycle,” Asst. Prof. Ayson said.
The second speaker was Sandra Aguinaldo of GMA Integrated News, who discussed the difference between misinformation and disinformation, the proper use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the significance of fact-checking.
According to Aguinaldo, “We have to take action in our own little ways by engaging with our relatives, families, and friends in a nice way para maging aware rin sila dito at siyempre sana dumami pa ‘yung nagbabantay against disinformation especially now that the election is just around the corner.”
Her speakership was part of a formal collaboration entered into by UPLB and GMA.
Asst. Prof. Ryan Jay Galang of the Department of Development Broadcasting and Telecommunication (DDBT) followed, sharing details about Bantay Halalan Laguna as CDC’s collaborative extension program during the election season and announcing a call for volunteers.
Meanwhile, in her opening remarks, Dean Maria Stella C. Tirol highlighted Bantay Halalan Laguna as CDC’s initiative to provide the community with accurate, truthful information and educate them about their electoral rights and responsibilities as the election season approaches.
Concluding the event was Dr. Trina Leah T. Mendoza, chair of the DDBT and program leader of Bantay Halalan Laguna, by thanking the resource persons for their valuable insights and encouraging participants to volunteer.
Asst. Prof. Miguel Victor T. Durian of the Department of Development Journalis (DDJ) served as master of ceremonies.
Stay tuned for Banay Halalan Laguna’s upcoming activities on its Facebook page. (Earl Joshua Pector)
