Groups such as Pamalakaya, Katribu BAYAN, Gabriela along with youth organizations League of Filipino Students and Kabataan Partylist, gathered at the Chinese Consulate in Makati, Metro Manila as early as 9 am to raise their calls. They later proceeded to the US Embassy in Manila to continue the protest.

Metro Manila

During the protest, the group Pamalakaya asserted the rights of the Filipino fisherfolk amidst Beijing’s continued presence in the West Philippine Sea. They also urged the government to stop reclamation and seabed quarrying in Manila Bay and other areas.

Despite Chinese assertiveness in the West PH Sea, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. remains optimistic over the ties between the two countries. 

Earlier, the President attended a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony at the Rizal Monument in Luneta Park, where he again called for unity. This marked his first Philippine Independence Day as President.

Katribu, an indigenous peoples (IP) group, also expressed its strong opposition to the construction of China-funded dam projects such as the Kaliwa Dam, which will cause environmental damage and possible displacement of communities. The Kaliwa Dam is a 12.2 billion project signed under the Duterte administration that has been collectively opposed by environmental groups and indigenous peoples organizations.

Kabataan Representative Raoul Manuel along with its other members also marched from the Chinese Consulate to the US Embassy despite police presence along the route. 

“Sa ika-125 na Araw ng Kalayaan, ang Pilipinas ay patuloy pa ring humaharap sa matinding hamon at banta mula sa mga bansang naghahangad na supilin ang ating kalayaan. Ang Tsina at Estados Unidos ay nagtutunggalian para isa ang manaig bilang kapangyarihan sa Pilipinas,” the party-list Kabataan said in a statement.

(On the 125th Independence Day, the Philippines still faces many challenges and threats from countries that want to curtail our freedom. China and US are competing in order to reign over us.)

Despite a 2016 landmark Hague Ruling which invalidated Beijing’s claim over most of the vast South China Sea via the nine-dash line principle, China has maintained vessels within the West Philippine Sea.

The US, on the other hand, has been granted access to four new local bases where the American military will be allowed to build facilities and preposition defense assets. This was announced when US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin visited the Philippines on February 2. 

Militant youth group Anakbayan also expressed its opposition to the continued attacks on national sovereignty by the US and China.

Other church groups also urged the government to free former senator Leila de lima, reiterating that her continued detention showed that the country is not truly free. (READ: ‘Not truly free as a nation’: Rights advocates decry De Lima’s continued detention)

Davao

Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) and Anakbayan Southern Mindanao also organized a protest at Freedom Park in Davao. They urged the current administration to implement and keep an effective independent foreign policy in relation to the rising tensions between the US and China over the West Philippine Sea. 

Bacolod City

Meanwhile in Bacolod City, sectoral groups also echoed the calls of the groups in Metro Manila and Davao. They also called for an immediate response of the government in certain issues including jeepney modernization, continuous oppression of local vendors and farmers, and privatization of Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO)  vendor spaces. 

“For us in the marginalized sector of the city, there’s no true and genuine independence in terms of our evidently [poor] living conditions,” secretary-general of Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap Ante Berlita told Rappler. 

Bacolod City also organized a program featuring a military parade, flag raising ceremony, and a wreath laying at the monument of an unknown soldier. 

Members from various groups including the Girl Scouts of the Philippines, Boy Scouts of the Philippines, Drum and Bugle Corps of various participating schools, and PNP Bacolod also took part in the civic-military parade from Lizares and Araneta Streets to the public plaza. – with reports from Alexandria Grace Magno and Amiel Antonio/Rappler.com.

Alexandria Magno is a Rappler Volunteer from the University of Santo Tomas.

Amiel Antonio is a Rappler intern from Bulacan State University — Main Campus. He is an incoming fourth-year journalism student.

The project dubbed #VoicesFromTheRegions, led by Rappler’s civic engagement arm MovePH, was done with the support of Community Solutions Program. It was in partnership with Tib-ong Kabataan Inc, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Western Visayas, Daily Guardian, iWrite, and University of the Philippines Visayas – Miagao. The activity gathered more than 80 residents including students, teachers, and 4Ps beneficiaries.

During the community dialogue, participants shared how they benefited from social media as they used online platforms for business, news, and important weather updates, research and education purposes, and the like.

“Importante gid man ang sa social media kay dira mo mabal-an ang mga impormasyon kag…mga balita sa palibot naton…mga nagakaratabo kag kung…halimbawa bagyo… kung ano ang weather sa sunod nga adlaw (Social media is truly important because that’s where you can know information and news and weather updates),” 4Ps beneficiary Jennyrose Muyong shared.

Some of them were also pushed to use social media platforms at the height of the pandemic: “Pag COVID kasi na wala gid kami bala sales bilog na year pag umpisa, te nag-gamit kami online para nga maka-income kami (When COVID happened, we didn’t have sales at all the whole year so we used online platforms to generate income),” said Anilene Tijing, a Miagao hablon weaver who used Facebook as an e-commerce platform to market and sell her goods. 

Lack of access to quality information online

Despite the benefits though, some shared several challenges they faced, especially by vulnerable groups and those in faraway provinces. In some areas of Miagao, for example, there was no stable internet connection, hindering their access to social media. This meant locals there had limited access to information and opportunities offered by digital platforms.

But the problem did not end there. Even those who had stable access to the internet still struggled with availability of quality information. Some locals of Miagao said that others got their information from alternative sources on social media because these were more available and did not require data. As most used free data on Facebook and other platforms, people were exposed to viral content regardless of accuracy.

“Doon sila pumupunta sa misinformed tsaka disinformed sites dahil ‘yun ang readily available tsaka mura… So imagine mo kung anong klaseng social media sites na napupuntahan nyan. And that would explain, sa palagay ko, kung bakit sila naniniwala sa false news, kasi ‘yan ‘yung nakikita nila sa social media, ‘yan ‘yung level of quality na nakikita nila,” chairperson of Division of Professional Education at University of the Philippines Pepito Ferdinandez said. 

(They encounter misinformation and disinformation because that’s readily available on social media. Imagine the kind of sites they visit because its accessible and cheap. That would perhaps explain, I think, why they easily fall into false news because that’s what they see on social media, that’s the level of quality they see.)

With algorithms as new gatekeepers of information, some participants argued that this had made Filipinos more vulnerable to misinformation and disinformation. They shared how some trust sources because of their high engagement, even if the information may potentially be false or misleading.

“[They think..] engagement still matters for the reliability of the source or the [likes and] shares of the story… They also try to check the number of shares and comments,” UP Visayas instructor Aljohn Torreta said as he shared the points raised in his dialogue group. 

Exposure to scams, dangers of social media

Irresponsible social media use not only leads to susceptibility to disinformation. It could also lead to harm and susceptibility to digital fraud.

During the dialogue, some participants flagged the proliferation of scammers in the digital landscape. Among the most common false information being spread on social media involves cash grants that pretend to be from DSWD. Rappler, for instance, has fact-checked several false claims related to this. 

DSWD Western Visayas Regional Information Officer May Rago Castillo narrated how some 4Ps beneficiaries fell for misinformation and text scams during DSWD payouts that involved change in schedule or additional cash assistance. There were also scams that targeted senior citizens, coaxing the elderly to become members of a certain organization, asking them to pay certain fees.

“In the release of assistance to individuals in crisis situations, do not believe people who will tell you that you have to go to a certain politician to get a referral. You can get our assistance even without the referral,” Castillo said, debunking some false claims.

Some beneficiaries like Juanita Muyana shared how she personally experienced being scammed when a hacker used her personal Facebook account to solicit donations from her friends using virtual wallet Gcash. (READ: Phishing 101: How to spot and avoid phishing)

Given these challenges, people should learn how to use social media responsibly. For one, parents can guide their children. 

But according to Carl Dulla, a community leader at Tib-ong Kabataan, parents and families who have access to social media will most likely focus on their main priority. That priority is to provide income for their families. Thinking about how to focus and analyze what they see and read online is on the back burner.

“What happens is, when it comes to responsibilities on social media, parents should lead the talk to guide their family. When parents do not have access, it’s the children who have. But they are unable to use that for good or to their advantage,” Dulla said in Filipino.

What can be done

In cases of scams, Castillo advised the audience to coordinate and report to the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit (RACU) of the Police Regional Office (PRO-6) Western Visayas and file a blotter of scam incidents at the nearest police station. She also suggested deleting payment history in apps as it can be used by other people for other purposes. (EXPLAINER: What is digital fraud and how do you protect yourself from scams?)

On top of this, it is also important that individuals are taught how to critically scrutinize online information because this has real-life impact: “It’s not enough to orient people about how to use social media responsibly but also give them quality access [so they can learn and access verified sources],” Fernandez added. (FAQs: Fact-checking to stop disinformation online)

For Castillo, though, one way to go about this is to create infographics and notices debunking false information that would be easily available and relatable to communities both online and on-ground.

“So if we see fake news, we come up with infographics telling that this is fake news and that this is not supposed to be followed by our beneficiaries. We post notices and press releases on the matter so beneficiaries would be aware. We have field-workers who can actually clarify matters if there are issues,” Castillo pointed out in the panel discussion that proceeded after the dialogue. 

Local news media Daily Guardian editor in chief Francis Angelo reminded the participants of the importance of research: “[Kailangan natin ng] mas malalim pang pag-aaral at pag-examine sa mga nakikita natin sa Facebook […] Bago mag-click, mag-share, o mag-comment at engage, basahin o i-verify muna. (We need deeper research and examination of the content we see on Facebook. Before we click, share, or comment, read or verify first.).

Angelo also highlighted the importance of journalism in today’s media landscape and the need to strengthen community journalism: “Journalists go out of their way to bring factual information to inform and educate the masses… That’s the purpose of journalism – to clarify everything, explain the issue, and let the people decide, debate if needed.”

He also mentioned what differentiates journalists from content creators is the process of verification that stories have to go through before they are published.

“[Para sa mga] journalists, may mga pinagdadaanan ang ating mga balita (For journalists, stories go through various processes of verification),” Angelo said, pointing out the stark contrast with content creators whose posts primarily aim to engage and entertain audience along the way. 

For UP Visayas iWrite campus publication adviser Zoilo Andrada Jr., collaborating with various sectors can help promote responsible social media use.

“I created a student org called iWrite to expose the members of our organization. The word is collaboration, we are willing to work with the municipality, other schools, with the residents of the community, and the UP Visayas. It’s a big challenge for our journalism students to really realize this kind of endeavor,” Andrada added, emphasizing the role that locals and students can do to spread facts. 

Rappler’s community and civic engagement specialist and project lead of #VoicesFromTheRegions initiative Jene Anne Pangue echoed this. She cited how various sectors can complement the work of organizations in fighting disinformation and promoting digital citizenship.

“You don’t have to reinvent the wheel, there are existing efforts that are being done to help combat disinformation and amplify facts. One big movement is through #FactsFirstPH. We saw how the work does not only involve the media, government or private institutions. It’s the entire nation. Each community member has the capacity to help. Each of us has a voice that we can amplify. Use it for the good and in a responsible way,” she added. – with reports from Myrrh Flores/Rappler.com 

Myrrh Flores is a Rappler volunteer from University of the Philippines Visayas. She is a freshman studying Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies, currently specializing in Journalism and Radio Broadcast.

This year, various groups and advocates across the country and abroad are conducting events, protests, and activities to address the importance of history, human rights, and fight for genuine equality and freedom of Filipinos. 

The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) is organizing a month-long event with the national theme, “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan. (Freedom. Future. History.)” which will consist of concerts, parades, ceremonies, and job fairs across the country from June 11 to 30. 

In alignment with the International Labor Organization’s 2023 World Day Against Child Labour, NHCP will also launch the #BatangMalaya campaign on June 12 in pursuit of creating safe spaces for Filipino children, and help forward a child-labor free country. Those interested may access the full list of NHCP’s calendar of activities here.

Here is a running list of other events and activities on the 125th anniversary of Independence Day: 

Protests

Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) will conduct a protest with the main call, “MAHAL KO ANG PILIPINAS, U.S. AT CHINA LAYAS!” to address issues between Philippine-China relations on Monday, June 12. The protest will start at 9 am, at the Chinese Consulate and will end at the US Embassy in Manila, by 11 am. 

Bazaars

Araneta City is organizing a week-long event themed “Iisang Kalayaan,” which will consist  of concerts, bazaars, and exhibits in several malls located in Cubao, Quezon City from June 1 to 12. 

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Calabarzon launched the 10th KALAKAL CALABARZON, a regional trade fair with the theme “Kalakalan ng mga Produktong Galing sa CALABARZON sa Araw ng Kalayaan” that will run from June 9 to June 13 at the Palm Drive Activity Center in Glorietta 2, Makati City.

The event is in partnership with the DTI’s provincial offices in Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon.

Cultural events, educational discussions

BAYAN will launch a bike initiative titled “Lakbay Aral, Rutang Makabayan 2023: Bike Ride para sa Kalayaan, Kapayapaan, at Katarungan” on Monday, June 12, 5 am, at the University of the Philippines Diliman Oblation in Quezon City. 

The bike ride will stroll through different historical sites in Quezon City, San Juan, and Manila to look back to the history of heroes who fought for freedom and democracy. The route will end at the Liwasang Bonifacio, Manila. Plus, this is free!

Those interested to join may register here for free. The first 100 registrants will receive free shirts. 

Katribu Youth, in partnership with Katribu PUP and Katribu University Belt, invites everyone to their educational discussion titled “YARN: Paghabi ng Isyu at Kwento ng Paglaban ng Pambansang Minorya,” on Wednesday, June 13, from 10 am to 3 pm, at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. 

Those interested in joining the discussion may register here. The organization also encourages everyone to sign the Youth Action for Ancestral Lands, Rights, and Natural Resrouces Manifesto of Unity which will be open until June 10, 11:59 pm.

The Human Rights and People Empowerment Center is inviting everyone to join their  cultural festival, “MiyerKULET! Freedom Extravaganza,” happening on Wednesdays and Fridays, 6 pm, from June to July, at the Rooftop, Fil Garcia Tower, Kalayaan Ave., Quezon City. The event will feature more than 30 films, live performances, and discussions. Admission is free.

Events abroad

Kalayaan Fiesta Foundation Netherlands will be holding the 2023 KFFN Independence Day Picnic on June 10 at Spaarnwoude Houtrak, Halfweg, The Netherlands. This will feature several cultural performances, concerts, and workshops.

The Philippine Embassy of Israel is also conducting a cultural festival titled, “Halina sa Hayarkon: Magsama-sama para sa Kalayaan,” to feature songs and cultural dances of the Filipino community in the Middle East. This will happen on Saturday, June 17, at  the Sky Town, HaYarkon Park, Tel Aviv. 

Job fairs

In partnership with NHCP, the Department of Labor Employment invites everyone to the Kalayaan Job Fair 2023 happening on June 12 nationwide. Those interested may visit their Facebook post here to know more about the venues.

The Department of Migrant Workers is holding an overseas mega jobs fair on Monday, June 12, from 8 am to 5 pm, at the Blas F. Ople Building in Mandaluyong City.

Applicants are requested to bring their resume, a copy of their passport, ballpen, face mask, and alcohol. – with reports from Amiel Antonio/Rappler.com

Amiel Antonio is a Rappler intern from Bulacan State University — Main Campus. He is an incoming fourth-year Journalism student. 

To recognize the rights and echo the struggles surrounding the LGBTQIA+ community, various organizations and groups were back on track to host events and initiatives for Pride Month 2023.

This year, Metro Manila Pride, the largest LGBTQ+ event in Southeast Asia will hold its annual Pride March and Festival, with the theme, “Tayo Ang Kulayaan: Samot-saring Lakas, Sama-sama sa Landas.”

The event, themed “TAYO ang KULAYAAN! Samot-saring Lakas, Sama-sama sa Landas!,” will take place on Saturday, June 24, at the Circuit Event Grounds, Makati City.

Participants may register here for free. 

MMPride will also hold the following activities: 

• June 3: Kwiz Nite (FFTG Cafe, Cubao, Quezon City, 7 pm) 
• June 7: SKL Discussion spaces (Online, 8 pm) 
• June 11: MMPride Community Meeting #4 (Hybrid, 1 pm) 
• June 18: Pride Picnic x Pride Speaks (Hybrid, 1 pm) 
• June 21: SKL Discussion Spaces (Online, 8 pm) 
• June 24: TAYO ang KULAYAAN Pride March & Festival (Makati, 10 am – 6:30 pm) 

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A post shared by Metro Manila Pride (@mmprideorg)

MMPride is also consolidating events and activities from like-minded organizations. Activities can be shared here. 

Donations are accepted in support of the month-long festival:

• BDO: 00 3660 1277 57 (Metro Manila LGBTQ+ Pride, Inc.)
• GCash: 0929 756 2816 (Angella M.)
• Paypal: bit.ly/MMPPayPal

Here is a running list of other events and activities organized by different advocates and groups across the country to celebrate Pride:

Bahaghari

Bahaghari is organizing a month-long calendar of activities consisting of roundtable discussions, film screening, cultural performances, and regional events for Pride month. 

One of their most anticipated events is their cultural night titled, “Baklaan sa Lansangan: Paghuhubog ng Sangkabaklaan,” on Saturday, June 17, at the Primos Roofdeck Resto, Brgy. Bagong Pag-asa, Quezon City, at 6 pm. Tickets can be purchased here. 

Meanwhile, the group is also launching a fund-raising initiative titled, “For the Gays, Fund the Gays,” in support of forthcoming pride-related activities.

This will be done through merchandise such as shirts, tote bags, and stickers starting from 15 pesos. There are also pre-order benefits such as discounted bundles for those who will order until May 30. 

You may purchase your merchandise here. 

Bahaghari also accepts monetary donations. QR codes directing to GCash, Maya, GrabPay, and PayPal can be accessed through their post. 

Kahilwayan 2023

Mindanao-based initiative Kahilwayan 2023 is organizing a two-week event in Cagayan de Oro City from June 11 to 24, featuring learning sessions, job fairs, and a Pride March. 

It will also host the Pride Met Gala 2023, happening on Sunday, June 11, 7 pm, at the gymnasium located at the New Municipal Hall of Villanueva in Misamis Oriental.

The organization is also consolidating events and initiatives from like-minded organizations to help craft a calendar for LGBTQ+ rights advocates. Events may be shared here. 

O Bar Philippines

O Bar Philippines, the home of Manila’s Finest Drag Queens, is ready to show off its 11th annual Philippine Pride Party on Saturday, June 24, at O Bar, Ortigas Technopoint, Pasig City. 

The event will feature drag families and personalities such as The Bacolod Drag Association, The Baguio Drag Queens, The Cebu Divettes, The O Divas, and Precious Paula Nicole!

Doors will open at 10 pm, while the Pride Party will begin at 12 am. A P1,500 admission fee is required.

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A post shared by O Bar Philippines (@obarphilippines)

Pride PH

Pride PH, in partnership with the Quezon City Government, is set to host a Pride Festival themed “Love, laban!” on Saturday, June 24, 10 am to 12 am, at the Quezon City Memorial Circle. 

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A post shared by Pride PH (@tfprideph)

Celebrities, social media influencers, and drag personalities will be present such as Sassa Gurl, AC Soriano, Phi Palmos, Precious Paula Nicole, and Naia.

Prior to the actual event on June 24, PridePH will also conduct the Pride Kickoff Street Party on June 17, at Maginhawa Street, Quezon City.

Organizations who wish to be part of the festival can scan the QR code below. 

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A post shared by Pride PH (@tfprideph)

Surftown Pride

Surftown Pride invites everyone to join their week-long activities in the Great Northwest Philippines, San Juan, La Union, from June 1-5.

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A post shared by Surftown Pride (@surftownpride)

For its fifth year, the organization continues with the theme #YouAreMyHome, inspiring allies with a sense of solidarity and shared goals, and establishing safe spaces on the northwest coast.

Humanist Alliance Philippines International

Humanist Alliance Philippines International, is slated to host a talk on the SOGIE bill, on Sunday, June 11, at the White House, A. Morales, Cebu City, from 8 am to 12 pm.

Meanwhile, HAPI – Bacolod is calling for volunteers, as they spearhead Negros Pride 2023 happening on Sunday, June 25, in Bacolod City. Volunteers may sign up here. 

In-kind and monetary donations are also accepted. Cash donations may be sent via GCash at 09398907625 via Francine Abalayan. For in-kind donations, you may drop them off at 20 Galo St, Barangay 21, Bacolod City. – with reports from Anamarie Antolin/Rappler.com 

Do you know of other events and activities in celebration of Pride? Email them to move.ph@rappler.com

Anamarie Antolin is a Rappler intern from Bulacan State University—Main Campus. She is an incoming senior studying Bachelor of Arts in Journalism.

Sixteen-year-old Kim Guanzon, a Grade 10 student from Bulanon Farm School in Negros Occidental, was sketching her contest piece during the DSPC in their province, when netizen Rene Jun Gasper took a photo of her on May 19. Gasper later posted it on his Facebook account.

Gasper shared Kim’s talent to the world because he said he was amazed by her determination to overcome extreme difficulty and excel despite her disability.

“Hindi ito naging hadlang. Sa halip, ito pa ang naging daan para ipakita sa lahat na ang tulad niya ay kayang mangibabaw at magtagumpay…. Magsisilbing salamin si Kim sa lahat ng mga bata na magpakita ng husay at kagalingan sa paaralan dahil ang mga recognition o parangal na tintanggap nila ang tanging bagay na maari nilang maibalik sa suporta at pagsasakripisyo ng kanilang pamilya,” said Gasper.

(It did not serve as a hindrance for her. Instead, it became the way to show that people like her can rise to the top and succeed…. Kim serves as an inspiration for all kids to work hard and try their best in school because the recognition and achievements they get are ways of giving back to the support and sacrifice their families make.)

Guanzon’s hard work paid off as she bagged the first place in the Editorial Cartooning category of the Negros Occidental DSPC because of her entry that portrayed the pertinent problems of the country.

The DSPC is part of a qualifying competitions for campus journalists all over the country organized by the Department of Education. The culmination of this competition in the National Schools Press Conference (NSPC).

The DSPC gives students the opportunity to showcase their talents while recognizing the role journalism played in building a socially-conscious nation. (READ: What campus journalists can do to strengthen their role as community watchdogs)

No hands? No problem

Guanzon, born with no hands and feet, has been drawing since she was six. She started by drawing flowers one day. Her parents immediately recognized her talent and encouraged her to pursue it. From then on, it became something she did often for fun.

Nowadays, she especially loves to draw faces and houses, while incorporating shading techniques in her artwork. She has also joined a number of drawing contests throughout her elementary and high school years — thanks to the guidance and support she has always had from her teachers and family.

When asked what exactly inspired her to draw, Guanzon said: “Yung family, guro, at mga mag-aaral po na nagsusupporta sa akin… dahil sila yung naniwala sa aking kakayahan. Malaking pasasalamat ko sa kanila lalo na po sa Panginoon dahil binigyan niya ako ng ganitong talento.”

(My family, teachers, and classmates who support me… because they are the ones who believe in my capabilities. I am very grateful to them, especially to God, because he gave me a talent like this.)

As an artist with disabilities, Guanzon often struggles as it takes her a longer period of time to complete her piece compared to others. Nonetheless, she takes this opportunity as a challenge that allows her to further hone her craft.

“Minsan marami akong mga mali or erasure, pero kapag pinagigihan ko sa pagpraktis ay mas na-iimprove yung pag drawing ko. Kaya ito rin yung isa sa paraan ko upang hindi ako mahihirapan… pinagsikapan ko talaga at pinagigihan sa pag practice hanggang makabisado ko na yung iguguhit ko,” she said.

(Sometimes I have a lot of mistakes or erasures, but when I am patient enough to practice, I am able to improve my drawing. This is also another way to make it easier for myself… I work hard and be patient with practicing until I am able to master what I am drawing.)

Despite her physical challenges, Guanzon would like to be an inspiration to the people with the same situation as her, and to show that people can use the blessings they are given to pursue their passions.

“Ipagpatuloy po nila yung gusto nilang gawin at huwag po mahiya na ipakita yung kanilang talento at gamitin sa tama. Huwag po silang sumuko sa kanilang mga pangarap sa buhay dahil nandyan po yung Panginoon upang tulungan tayo. At nandyan rin yung pamilya natin at mga taong patuloy na sinusuportahan tayo,” she said.

(They should keep doing what they want to do, and they shouldn’t be ashamed to show their talents and put it to good use. They should not give up on their aspirations in life because God is there to help. And our families and loved ones are there to support us also.)

However, her journey is not easy. When asked about her challenges in pursuing this passion, Guanzon said she wished she had the financial resources to buy more art materials. “Yun din po yung kulang sa akin, yung mga art materials po para mas mag improve yung skills sa pagdraw at matry din yung ibang style sa pag drawing po.”

(That’s what I’m missing, art materials, so that I could improve my skills in drawing and I could try other styles as well.)

She also hopes that the community and government could provide more support and aid to persons with disabilities.

“Ang tulong na maaaring ibigay ng government sana sa mga ibang PWD ay yung mga pangangailangan po nila lalo na sa kanilang mga disabilities na mayroon sila tulad po ng mga wheelchairs at iba pang maaring makakatulong para mapabuti po yung kanilang kalagayan.”

(The government could help other people by providing them with what they need given their disabilities, like wheelchairs and other equipment that could best improve the quality of their lives.)

When she grows up, Guanzon wishes to become an architect, as she hopes to build a home for her family some day.

She will be representing Negros Occidental in the 2023 Regional Schools Press Conference in June. – Rappler.com

Chloe Canivel is a Rappler volunteer from Ateneo de Manila University. She recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology.

This access can be a double-edged sword since this can make people vulnerable to manipulation, lies, and scams happening in the same online space. On the other hand, social media, when used responsibly, can also offer citizens the opportunity to amplify their voice for good.

So what can we do to cut through the social media noise? How can communities use their voices for social good? 

MovePH, the civic engagement arm of Rappler, will be heading to towns of Miag-ao, Iloilo, and Buenavista, Guimaras for community dialogues and workshops to promote responsible digital citizenship on June 2 and 3 respectively. 

The community initiative dubbed “Voices from the Regions” in Western Visayas is a pilot project that aims to strengthen community engagement through dialogues and highlight the importance of good digital citizenship in today’s online landscape. 

This project, supported by the Community Solutions Program, is done in partnership with the Pantawid Program Regional Program Management team of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Tib-ong Kabataan Inc, The Daily Guardian, and the #FactsFirstPH initiative.

The Iloilo leg of the project is co-hosted by the University of the Philippines Visayas Miag-ao Campus, iWrite, and Bantala. 

Participants will learn about responsible social media use and online civic engagement. The initiative will also touch on how to be more mindful of one’s information consumption habits, as well as, tackle the roles and responsibilities of digital citizens, especially in voicing out issues that matter to them and their communities.

The event is free but slots are limited. If you are a resident of Miag-ao in Iloilo and Buenavista and Jordan in Guimaras, register to join here or click the link below:

REGISTER HERE

Here are the details to the back-to-back on-ground activities: 

UP Visayas Miag-ao Campus on Friday, June 2 

At least 20 participants who are residents of Miag-ao, Iloilo will be selected from the pool of registrants to participate in the community dialogue at 10 am in the UP Visayas Miag-ao campus. 

The rest of the registered participants are welcome to join the workshop from 2 pm to 4 pm in the same venue. 

Buenavista, Guimaras on Saturday, June 3 

At least 20 participants who are residents of Buenavista and Jordan in Guimaras will be selected from the pool of registrants to participate in the community dialogue at 10 am at the Multi Purpose Hall, 3rd floor Municipal Building in New Poblacion, Buenavista, Guimaras.

The rest of the registered participants are welcome to join the workshop from 2 pm to 4 pm in the same venue.

After registering, kindly wait for the confirmation message from MovePH and its partners for the final details of the on-ground activities.

To know more about the important issues in various local areas, Rappler also has a Voices from the Regions podcast. – Rappler.com  

A student journalist from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), and students from St. Louis University (SLU) in Baguio, showed the way when they produced the winning entries in the recent #FactsFirstPH video contest.

Getting creative with promoting media and information literacy (MIL) among their peers, more than 25 students and professionals across the Philippines made one to two-minute videos sharing tips about fact-checking and responsible social media usage for the contest organized by anti-disinformation initiative #FactsFirstPH. 

Launched during MovePH’s MIL series in January, the video contest aimed to amplify verified sources of information and promote ways for people can help curb the spread of false information. To join the contest, participants featured an existing fact check, or shared tips on how to combat disinformation and practice media literacy in their short creative videos posted on Tiktok, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube.

Through their video entries, students, teachers, and other professionals shared tips on how to identify whether the information they’re reading is false, and warned people about the harmful impacts of disinformation on our day to day lives. Others, meanwhile, created explainers in a fight back to false narratives and historical distortion.

The three winners were Rinoa Kate Dela Cruz, a student from PUP, at first place, and SLU Baguio students Phoeboa Buen and April Anne Nemenzo, at second and third respectively. Dela Cruz earned P10,000, Buen P7,000, while Nemenzo P5,000.

These video entries were reviewed by Rappler’s Production team, Rappler’s Head of Creative Design, Tiktok content creator Mighty Magulang, as well as select members of Rappler+.

Addressing historical distortion

Given the attempts to distort history, Dela Cruz shared how students can take a stand to correct historical distortion through her explainer video debunking the myths and false narratives of the Martial Law era.

False claims remain rampant in communities, especially when major influencers such as vloggers, artists, and national institutions have been tapped to deliberately mislead public perception. In the education sector, some school textbooks have been found lacking in thorough discussions of history, which leave communities vulnerable to online disinformation.

As a student journalist, Dela Cruz emphasized the role of students in strengthening collective growth and academic freedom in schools and institutions. One way they can do this is by highlighting the importance of history and how it continues to impact us up to this day.

“I recognize the vital role of history in shaping our present and future. By examining and understanding past events, individuals can learn valuable lessons that can help them avoid repeating the same mistakes in the future,” Dela Cruz said. 

Being a member of Explained PH, a youth-driven community publication, Dela Cruz shared that she has witnessed the adverse attacks against advocates and truth-tellers. She especially cited how red-tagging and targeting by trolls have led people to doubt the credibility of journalists.

Given the challenges, she hopes to instill media literacy as a social responsibility in order to help build trust in media in communities. 

“I strive to teach people to restore their trust in media institutions by demonstrating my continuous commitment to journalistic ethics and standards, countering the spread of false information and propaganda, and reducing the influence of partisan or biased reporting,” Dela Cruz said.

Ways on how to mitigate information disorder

Another way to rebuild trust in facts is by teaching citizens how to mitigate the existing information disorder in digital spaces. This was shared by second-placer Buen, along with her schoolmates Jodi David, Roshane Dominguez, and Hannah Tamayo.

In their video, they urged viewers to practice a person-to-person approach in fact-checking by dealing and engaging our personal circles offline, and doing so with empathy. Moreover, they shared the importance of familiarizing oneself with the information disorder – consisting of disinformation, misinformation, and malinformation – and its possible impacts on public perception. 

“Fact-checking is important and should be the top priority when reading information online. We as citizens must be responsible for what to share online and for being informed in times of disinformation,” Buen said. 

Being responsible online

Part of media literacy isn’t just about fact-checking; it’s also about learning how to be a responsible digital citizen. This can include knowing how to protect yourself from not only false information and propaganda but also online scams and digital fraud.

Nemenzo’s third place winning video was on Rappler’s fact check of an ad of an unregistered product, which misrepresented an endorsement by Kris Aquino.

@annenemenzo MAY PAKPAK MAN ANG BALITA DAPAT ITONG IFACT-FACT CHECK MUNA. I-share mo sa comment section kung nais mong sagutin ang tanong sa dulo ng video na ito! Para sa kabuong fact check article na isinulat ng rappler sundan ang link na ito: https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/unregistered-product-advertisment-misrepresents-endorsement-kris-aquino/ #FactsFirstPH #FactsFirst #InformationDisorder #factchecking ♬ original sound – anne nemenzo

In the video, Nemenzo warned people to be wary when buying things online, especially from sellers that may possibly spout misleading claims or use altered photos to promote their products. One of the ways that people can avoid this is to always double check and ensure if the product and the seller are legitimate.

“They [social media users] need to become aware of the danger of online buying…. Sellers should be responsible for what they sell, and should be taken accountable for what they post online,” Nemenzo said. 

“It’s cliche to say but ‘think before you click’ will still be a helpful and smart choice until now, because the last thing you would do is to know when to trust and have the knowledge to decipher facts from false information,” Nemenzo added. 

These are just some of the entries made by students and professionals for the #FactsFirstPH video contest.

Emphasizing everyone’s role in promoting facts, Dela Cruz urged people to do their part in practicing responsible digital citizenship – be it producing fact-checks, joining groups advocating for truth, engaging our circles, or even as simple as being mindful of what we share online.

“We can create a culture where people are encouraged to verify the information they receive and evaluate its accuracy and reliability. I hope to inspire people of all ages to take the first step in fighting for the truth and eliminating the wrongdoings of falsified [information],” Dela Cruz added. – Rappler.com

Interested in media literacy and fact-checking? Follow the #FactsFirstPH movements page for more updates. Email us at move.ph@rappler.com for partnership inquiries and other collaboration opportunities.

In an interview with Rappler, cartoonists Zach and StephB, described the murky situation of editorial cartooning in the Philippines.

For one, editorial cartoons were removed in at least two major print publications in 2022. First, The Philippine Daily Inquirer scrapped editorial cartoons in March. This was followed by The Philippine Star, which also ended the inclusion of editorial cartoons in its op-ed pages in August. 

“Cartoons used to be one of the most anticipated in major publications–Philippine Star, Inquirer. You will notice that the pages in the newspapers are getting thinner and thinner. Because of cost-cutting, because social media is also rising. So one of the first casualties was the cartoon, cartoonists were the first removed,” Zach said in a mix of Filipino and English.

He also pointed out how some publishers avoid controversial cartoons that would pose conflict to some political interests. 

This has pushed cartoonists like Zach and Steph to use the digital platform as a new avenue to promote their work. 

“Akala siguro nila– some newspapers, na hindi ganun ka importante yung cartoons, pero, I think social media proves otherwise, na alam mo na grabe yung engagements, grabe yung reception ng mga tao. (Some newspapers thought that cartoons were not important, but I think social media proves otherwise, because you know, the engagements and the receptions from people were really enormous),” Zach added.

But for Steph, social media as a wider platform also brings its own set of challenges to remain relevant online.“Since ang kakumpitensya mo ngayon is the whole world ‘di ba? Yung hindi lang dito sa Pilipinas…. kailangan medyo iimprove mo lagi ang sarili mo para manotice ang artwork mo. Mas malaki na ngayon ang playing field eh (Since you have a bigger competition worldwide, you need to also improve yourself as a cartoonist so your artwork will stand out from the rest. The playing field has become bigger),” Steph said. 

Regardless of the boost that social media can give to their work, Zach, meanwhile, expressed that editorial cartooning is a profession that must be balanced along with other jobs in order to meet the costs of living. 

“There are no full-time cartoonists in the Philippines. It is always necessary to have a side job. If you are an artist, you are not only a cartoonist, but also a graphic artist, you do the layout too. Because you need to make a living, the challenge is you cannot be a full-time cartoonist,” he said in a mix of Filipino and English.

“Social media has a huge potential. But of course, artists have to pay their bills so it is necessary to balance with other passions you love,” Zach added.

Call for support

Despite these challenges, cartoonists like Zach and Steph managed to keep the art alive. They mentioned the importance of belonging to an organization such as Pitik Bulag, an artist-collective co-founded by Cartoonist Zach, which aims to provide aspiring cartoonists a platform to showcase their works on sociopolitical issues.

According to them, such organizations serve as a strong foundation of support, encouragement, and motivation necessary for them to accomplish more as cartoonists. 

“I think because I’m part of an organization, I’m able to take part, and also join exhibits, collaborations and such- which on my own, If I’m not a part of a group, perhaps, I will not be able to do,” Steph, who is the only female member in the group, said in a mix of Filipino and English.

Both of them also added that their followers’ simple act of recognizing and sharing their works on social media can make a big difference to further amplify their advocacies and awaken people’s consciousness towards pressing issues.

“Sa pamamagitan ng paggawa ng cartoons meron kang abilidad… para isiwalat ano yung mensahe mo, ano yung gusto mo ipahiwatig tungkol sa mga issue na napapanahon. (Through creating cartoons, you have the ability…to reveal your messages, the things you wanted to share on issues that are relevant in our time),” Zach said.

This is especially important, according to Zach, because even if cartoons portray an issue at a certain time, its significance cannot be buried in the past. 

“Marami sa mga martial law or mga lumang cartoons na hanggang ngayon ay super relevant pa rin. (Most old cartoons, and those released from the Martial Law period are still relevant up to this day) And that’s a manifestation of a good cartoon. It’s a timeless concept,” Zach added.

Alongside its timeless value, Steph added that cartoons also create an instant connection among its audience beyond words. 

“I guess the editorial cartoon, for example, I will illustrate without words – if I do it well, someone from Iran or Japan will understand it, anyone who doesn’t speak English or Tagalog, they will understand. That’s how powerful it is,” Steph said in a mix of Filipino and English.

That is why for both of them, editorial cartooning still plays a very important role in journalism and upholding press freedom, especially in today’s online landscape. 

“I know the importance of facts. So before making a cartoon, like I said before, I make sure na I do my research….  Facts help a lot pag gagawa ka ng isang illustration or editorial cartoon,” Steph said, highlighting the importance of facts in creating editorial cartoons and its influence on people’s perception.

They also called for support from Filipinos so they can continue to do the work that they do. 

“In this age of disinformation, many people share false information. I want to make something different because art has the ability to instill awareness in people. It has the ability to mobilize, to arouse people’s political consciousness,” Zach said.– with reports from Angelica Coleto/Rappler.com

Angelica Coleto is a Rappler intern from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Sta. Mesa. She is currently a senior taking up a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literary and Cultural Studies. 

Taking off from UNESCO’s theme, freedom of expression as a “driver for all other human rights,” these activities aim to highlight the importance of media and free press in the country, and amplify the calls of journalists to uphold press freedom.

Here is a running list of events commemorating the 30th World Press Freedom Day anniversary: 

Fair and art exhibits

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines Metro Manila is holding a press freedom fair on May 5 at 6 pm at Quirido Bistro, TUCP Compound, Elliptical Road, Quezon City. With the campaign #NeverWriting30, the fair aims to highlight the courage of journalists to write in the toughest times.

The Foundation for Media Alternatives, a nonprofit organization in the Philippines that promotes the strategic and appropriate use of information and communications technologies, will be opening “Drawing Dissent,” an exhibit on online information disorder.

The exhibit will open on May 3, from 5 pm to 7 pm, at the UP Film Institute Media Center in UP Diliman. This will feature the works of local artists, such as Tarantadong Kalbo, Manix Abrera, Jesie Castro, Kapitan Tambay, and Marian Hukom.

Attendees must register here.

Roundtable discussions

The Asian Center for Journalism, in support of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, is holding “Meet the Press: A World Press Freedom Day Activity,” from May 2 to 3, at the Leong Hall Auditorium, Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City. 

The two-day discussion will feature talks on Intergenerational Conversations on Journalism, Master’s Project Presentations, and Pitik: Forum Series on Visual Journalism.

The event will feature Bloomberg Hong Kong’s Ryan Chua, TV5’s Ed Lingao,  Inquirer’s Krixia Subingsubing, Pumapodcast’s Franco Luna, and freelance journalist Jhesset Enano.

Register here.

The Freedom for Media Freedom for All (FMFA) Network, in partnership with the University of the Philippines College of Mass Communication, is inviting everyone to join the “Fight for Truth and Human Rights” forum to discuss the state of press freedom in the Philippines. 

The forum will happen on Wednesday, May 3, from 1 to 3 pm, at the UP College of Mass Communication Auditorium, Diliman, Quezon City. This will also be broadcast online via Zoom, @DZUP1602am’s Youtube, and FMFA’s social media channels. 

Zoom participants may register here.

The UP College of Mass Communication (CMC), in collaboration with Freedom for Media Freedom for All Network, is inviting everyone to join their roundtable discussion titled “Fight for Truth and Human Rights.”

The event will be held at the UP CMC Auditorium in Diliman on May 3, from 1 pm to 3 pm. This will also be available online via Zoom and will be broadcast on DZUP1602am’s Youtube.

Register here to join the Zoom session.

After the discussion, the college will also be opening the Dean Luis V. Teodoro Nook and Exhibit, and the Media Freedom Wall at the CMC library and CMC grounds, respectively.

The PUP College of Communication joins the celebration of WPFD with an online roundtable discussion on May 3 at 2 pm. 

Titled “Breaking Barriers: Journalists as Catalysts of Freedom of Expression,” the discussion will be done on Zoom with a live broadcast on the Facebook pages of the PUP College of Communication, Southeast Asian Media Studies Association, PUP Journalism Guild, and The Communicator.

Register here to join the online discussion.

Meanwhile, the PUP College of Communication Student Council is inviting students from PUP to join its forum titled, “RED ALERT: Dangers of Red-tagging and Union-busting to Press Freedom” on May 8 at 1 pm at the PUP College of Communication Audio Visual Room.

Register here to join.

The University of the Philippines’ Department of Journalism,  the University of Santo Tomas, and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines is  inviting faculty and students to attend the Philippine Journalism Research Conference 2023 with the theme, “Journalism and Generation Truth.” 

This will happen on May 5, from 9 am to 5 pm, at the College of Mass Communication in UP Diliman, and will feature various speakers in the journalism field – all alumni of UP CMC and recipients of the Canadian embassy’s Marshall McLuhan fellowships: Joseph Morong of GMA News, Karmina Constantino of ABS-CBN, and Miriam Grace Go of Rappler.    

There will also be four parallel sessions for academic research, investigative journalism, special projects, and photo essays. The best research papers and journalistic output will be awarded respectively. 

Kindly register here for free: https://bit.ly/PJRC2023_RegistrationForm

Participants can either attend at the UP CMC Film Studio, Quezon City or join via Zoom or Facebook livestream.

Do you know of any events or activities organized in celebration of World Press Freedom Day? Send them to move.ph@rappler.com. – Glenn Jr. Ferrariz/Rappler.com

Glenn Jr. Ferrariz is a Rappler volunteer from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. He’s in his fourth year of taking up Bachelor of Arts in Journalism.

Following the unified call for jobs for all, living wages, the end to contractualization, and the upholding of workers’ rights, these activities aim to bring attention to labor rights issues in the Philippines.

Here is a running list of Labor Day events and activities that will take place on May 1:

Art production and discussion groups

Panday Sining Makati, a multidisciplinary collective of artists for the masses, is inviting Makati Youth to participate in the production of placards on Sunday, April 30, from 9 am to 2 pm. The placards will be used for the protest on May 1. 

Aside from art production, Panday Sining Makati will also hold discussions on neoliberalism on the same day.

To join, sign up here.

DIWA Vito Cruz, a national democratic mass organization founded by senior high school students from around Vito Cruz, Manila, is also organizing art production and discussion groups on Sunday at 1 pm.

In preparation for Mayo Uno, the Lasallian Youth is invited to participate in their call for wage hikes and regularization. 

To join, sign up here. 

Protests

More than 10,000 employees will march from España to Mendiola on Monday as part of a protest organized by the All Philippine Trade Unions (APTU) to call for wage hikes, the abolition of contractualization, and the full recognition of their right to unionize.

APTU is an organized coalition composed of the Nagkaisa! Labor Coalition, Kilusang Mayo Uno, Trade Union Congress of the Philippines, Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino, and a host of other trade union centers and confederations. 

Solidarity ride for laborers

QCklista, a nonprofit organization composed of a group of bike enthusiasts from Quezon City, together with alliances of commuters, pedestrians, and transport workers, PARA!, and the #MakeItSafer Movement group will organize a community solidarity ride for laborers who commute by bike on a daily basis to support their fight for livable pay and a more efficient public transit system.

The groups will assemble along Agham Road in Quezon City at 6 am on Monday and ride to Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila. 

Do you know of other activities or events scheduled for this year’s Labor Day celebration? You may send details to move.ph@rappler.com. – Joan Alindogan/Rappler.com

Joan Alindogan is a Rappler intern from TRACE College in Los Baños, Laguna. She is currently in her senior year taking up AB Communication Arts.