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Saturday, March 22, 2025

Should DDS Vloggers Face Justice for Spreading Lies?


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In the digital age, where a single click can shape public opinion, the responsibility of content creators to uphold truth has never been more crucial. Yet, many pro-Duterte vloggers—collectively known as the DDS (Diehard Duterte Supporters)—have repeatedly peddled misinformation, distorting public discourse for political gain. These vloggers, instead of informing the public, have chosen to manufacture narratives, manipulate facts, and spread fake news that endangers democracy itself. Their actions demand accountability, and an apology is the bare minimum.


The Noam Chomsky Doctrine: A Call to Expose Lies

Renowned intellectual Noam Chomsky once said, “The responsibility of intellectuals is to speak the truth and expose lies.” This statement underscores a fundamental truth—those who wield influence, whether as journalists, scholars, or content creators, must champion facts and resist the temptation to propagate deception.


The DDS vloggers, however, have done the exact opposite. They have used their platforms to twist reality, attack political critics, and elevate falsehoods as truth. By doing so, they have not only eroded public trust but have also contributed to a culture where deception thrives unchecked.


The Consequences of Fake News: A Society in Decline

The widespread misinformation spread by these vloggers has had real-world consequences:


Political Polarization – By promoting disinformation, they have deepened societal divisions, turning public discourse into a battleground of lies rather than a space for reasoned debate.

Historical Distortion – From revising Martial Law atrocities to downplaying human rights violations, they have rewritten history to serve the interests of the powerful.

Threats to Democracy – Misinformation fuels populist authoritarianism. By attacking the media and institutions that uphold accountability, these vloggers weaken democracy’s foundations.

Public Manipulation – Many Filipinos, trusting these influencers, have unknowingly been misled, making decisions based on falsehoods rather than facts.


Why an Apology Matters

Acknowledging wrongdoing is not just about restoring credibility—it is about reaffirming that truth still matters. If these vloggers are truly committed to serving the public, they must own up to their mistakes, retract their false statements, and pledge to uphold journalistic integrity moving forward.


Their failure to do so will only confirm what many already suspect: that their loyalty lies not with the truth, but with those who benefit from lies.


The Need for Fact-Checking and Reliable Sources

In contrast to these disinformation peddlers, responsible journalism and intellectual discourse rely on credible sources, verified data, and accountability. The public must be vigilant in identifying reliable information:


Trust reputable news organizations that adhere to ethical journalism standards.

Cross-check information before sharing it online.

Support independent media that prioritizes investigative reporting over political propaganda.


A Final Plea: Choose Truth Over Deception

The fight against disinformation is not just the responsibility of journalists or fact-checkers—it is a battle every citizen must engage in. As Noam Chomsky urged, silence in the face of lies is complicity. The DDS vloggers must be held accountable, and the public must demand better.


The truth deserves defenders. Will you be one of them?

Tears and Contrition: Krizette Chu’s Emotional Apology Amid Disinformation Hearing


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In a gripping turn of events at the House tri-committee hearing on the rampant spread of online disinformation, social media personality and veteran journalist Krizette Laureta Chu found herself in tears as she publicly apologized for using “bad words” in a past post criticizing the government. The moment came when Rep. Bienvenido Abante resurrected her old remarks, putting the Manila Bulletin assistant lifestyle editor in the spotlight of a high-stakes inquiry into digital misinformation.


From Critic to Apologist: A Moment of Reckoning

Known for her unfiltered and often fiery commentaries, Chu has built a reputation as one of the loudest voices in the online political discourse. Her passionate takes, particularly those defending the Duterte administration and criticizing the opposition, have earned her both staunch supporters and relentless critics. However, the hearing unearthed a past post in which she lashed out at the government, using language that she now regrets.


As Rep. Abante pressed her on the issue, Chu’s voice cracked, and she struggled to hold back tears. In front of lawmakers and the public, she admitted to having let emotions get the best of her, conceding that her choice of words may have been inappropriate.


"I am deeply sorry for the words I used. I regret that moment of anger, and I sincerely apologize to anyone I may have offended," Chu stated, visibly shaken.


Disinformation on Trial: The Bigger Picture

The emotional moment was just one highlight of the ongoing House investigation into the spread of fake news and propaganda on social media. The probe has brought together lawmakers, digital experts, and media figures to dissect the murky world of online influence, where narratives are shaped, reputations are built or destroyed, and truth is often a casualty.


Krizette Chu, despite her apology, remains a controversial figure in this landscape. While she has long championed certain political narratives, her past criticisms of the government—now resurfaced—reveal a more complex history. The incident raises pressing questions:


Who holds social media influencers accountable for their statements?

Where is the line between personal opinion and harmful disinformation?

How does selective outrage shape public perception?


A Fanatic or a Journalist?

Chu’s dual identity as both a Manila Bulletin editor and an ultra-passionate social media commentator has sparked debate. Can one maintain journalistic integrity while simultaneously being a vocal advocate for a political side? Her tearful apology may have been a moment of personal reckoning, but it also underscores the blurring lines between professional journalism and social media activism.


Despite her apology, critics argue that the damage has been done. The internet never forgets, and her history of online posts—whether in support of or against the government—will continue to shape public opinion about her credibility.


What Happens Next?

With the House inquiry ongoing, and the nation watching closely, the battle against online disinformation rages on. Krizette Chu’s emotional moment serves as a stark reminder that words—especially in the digital age—have power, and those who wield influence must do so responsibly.


As the investigation continues, one thing is certain: the fight for truth in the era of misinformation is far from over.

Social Media for Clout: Woman Arrested in Cebu for Posting Manipulated Statement of the President


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In the digital age, where virality often equates to revenue, the race for online engagement can sometimes push individuals to cross ethical—and even legal—boundaries. A stark reminder of this reality unfolded in Cebu when authorities arrested a woman for posting a manipulated statement allegedly made by the president regarding illegal drugs.


The Price of Deception

The suspect, whose identity remains undisclosed as of this writing, expressed deep regret after being taken into custody. According to initial reports, she admitted that her motive was to generate views on her social media account, which she monetized for income.


Authorities, however, did not take the matter lightly. The spread of misleading information, especially one that distorts the words of the highest official in the country, carries serious implications. The government has been aggressive in combating misinformation, particularly on sensitive issues like illegal drugs—a topic that has long been a cornerstone of national discourse.


A Dangerous Digital Precedent

Social media has become a powerful tool for communication, activism, and even livelihood. However, the ease of content creation and the hunger for engagement have also given rise to disinformation campaigns and digital manipulation. In this case, the woman’s pursuit of online popularity and financial gain led to her downfall, serving as a cautionary tale for content creators who prioritize virality over truth.


Legal Repercussions Await

The suspect now faces legal consequences, as authorities consider possible charges under the Cybercrime Prevention Act and other relevant laws governing the dissemination of false information. The arrest sends a strong message: distorting public discourse for personal gain will not be tolerated, especially when it involves the country’s leadership and critical national issues.


The Battle Against Misinformation Continues

This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of policing digital spaces. While free speech remains a fundamental right, it comes with the responsibility to ensure accuracy and accountability.


As authorities crack down on manipulated content, social media users must be more discerning about the information they consume and share. The pursuit of views and monetization should never come at the expense of truth—because in the end, the cost of deception can be far greater than the fleeting rewards of online fame.

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