Curbing the Pandemic of Disinformation: What Really Happened During Martial Law

On 21 April 2022, the UP Institute of Human Rights (UP IHR) and Democracy Watch Philippines – a citizen-led democratic initiative whose advocacies include combating election-related disinformation, hosted the online forum entitled, “Curbing the Pandemic of Disinformation: What Really Happened During Martial Law”.

The forum challenged the false narratives being spread on social media about the country’s Martial Law experience under the Marcos Dictatorship. It further underscored the dangers of disinformation & fake news and highlighted the urgent need for everyone to combat it.

The event, moderated by UP IHR Senior Legal Associate Raymond Marvic “Ice” Baguilat, was opened by Former Ambassador Albert Del Rosario.

Enriching the event were fearless former editors and writers of various college publications whose lives were immensely shaped by their experiences during Martial Law. Sharing their stories were Summit Media Editor-in-Chief Ms. Jo-Ann Q. Maglipon, Ateneo De Manila University Asian Center for Journalism Chairperson Jaime Florcruz, Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals Pastoral Leader Roberto Bob Corrales, Former Manila Bulletin Sports Editor Ding Marcelo, UP Professor of Women and Development Studies Judy Taguiwalo, Surian ng Sining Trustee Etel Dionisio, Former Secretary of the Department of Health Manuel Dayrit, UP Professor Emeritus Dr. Jose “Butch” Dalisay and Former Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Deputy Governor Diwa C. Gunigundo. In his Closing Remarks, former International Criminal Court Judge Raul C. Pangalangan spoke about the impact of first hand experiences in today’s discourse.