InSites by: Josephine J. Codilla, PhD
With midterm elections fast approaching, Professor Rachel E. Khan’s talk, “Information as a Tool for Citizens’ Trust and Participation in the Policy Process,” delivered in late 2024 at the Senate of the Philippines under the Development Academy of the Philippines’ Capacity Building on Innovative Leadership for Legislative Staff (CBILLS) Program, provides valuable insights that are especially important for me as a journalist for Diyaryo Pinoy and other publications. Since I started writing opinion columns in 2011, I’ve seen how news distribution has changed—from the time when traditional print media was dominant to the growing power of social media. Even with these changes, the publications I write for have continued to print physical copies while also embracing digital platforms to stay relevant in today’s fast-changing media world.
One of the key points from Professor Khan’s talk was her discussion of “Information Disorder,” which refers to the spread of misleading or false information. As a journalist, I’ve seen how fake news can damage the public’s trust in the media. The rise of social media has made this issue worse, as algorithms often push sensational or inaccurate content over news based on facts. This has made critical thinking and thorough fact-checking more important than ever.
Professor Khan also talked about the “3 Ps of Public Participation”—Propaganda, Public Relations, and Press Releases—highlighting the careful balance journalists need to strike between offering honest opinions and reporting facts. As someone who values providing clear and accurate content, Professor Khan’s message about the need for transparency and accountability is important to me. It is crucial for me that my readers trust the information I share, especially in a world where public opinion can be easily shaped by false narratives.
Moreover, the principles of public information policy—truth, transparency, and accountability—highlight the responsibility journalists have in shaping public opinion. Independent fact-checking sites like VERA Files and Snopes are important resources for ensuring accuracy and maintaining the integrity of the information we publish.
Professor Khan’s talk strengthened my commitment to responsible journalism. While today’s media landscape comes with many challenges, it also offers opportunities to build greater public trust. By adhering to the values of integrity and truth, both in print and online, I hope to contribute to a more informed and engaged public. These principles will continue to guide me as I move forward in my work as a journalist.