VP Leni cites need for responsible use of freedom of expression
Vice President Ma. Leonor “Leni” Robredo has underscored the need for responsible use of freedom of expression with the alarming spread of fake news and misinformation online.
Robredo, a victim of online attacks herself, said the freedom of speech is in a grey area with the proliferation of social media.
“Tayo kasi parati tayo doon sa freedom of expression. Tingin natin dapat minimum ang intervention ng State pagdating doon. Ang pinakamahirap lang dito sa freedom of expression, ngayong mayroon nang, marami na iyong social media (We are for freedom of expression and minimum intervention from government. But with the advent of social media, it makes it complicated),” she said.
The former housing chief cited the lack of accountability among social media users.
“Kasi yung demands na parang walang accountability, walang accountability ang nasa social media (Because social media has no accountability),” Robredo said.
The Vice President was referring to certain personalities using the cover of online anonymity to spread lies, propaganda, and misinformation on social media.
Since she assumed office last year, Robredo has become a victim of hoaxes and unfounded rumors online.
Some of those included speculations that she is pregnant, her alleged links to groups plotting the ouster of President Rodrigo Duterte, and that she had married a different man before she got married to her late husband, Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo, among others.
She debunked all of these fake news that spread on social media.
While journalists and media organizations observe ethical standards, Robredo said the people behind fake news and misinformation online are not held accountable.
“Iyong traditional media, bounded by code of ethics, maraming responsibilidad na dinidemand galing sa kanila, pero itong social media mahirap (Traditional media is bounded by a code of ethics, and much responsibility is demanded from them. But with social media, that is difficult),” she said.