About 122 students of Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) Casiguran campus participated in a media and information literacy session to promote responsible sharing of online information, and counter fake news.
The activity was organized by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO), and ASCOT to strengthen youth awareness of digital responsibility and collective action against misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation.
Youth at the forefront of truth
PIA Assistant Regional Head Carlo Lorenzo Datu highlighted that false information spreads quickly, influences decisions, and undermines public trust, making students crucial partners in promoting truthful communication.
“Fake news spreads fast and affects how people think, decide, and act. It can weaken public trust and divide communities. That is why students play a crucial role,” Datu said.
He reminded participants that their active presence on digital platforms allows them to influence their schools, families, and communities in positive ways.
“When you verify information before sharing and stand up for truth, you help protect your school, your families, and your community from harm,” Datu added.
Shaping responsible and thoughtful learners
ASCOT President Renato Reyes expressed his support for the activity and emphasized that in a world where misinformation is widespread, critical thinking is power.
“Through proper media literacy, our students are encouraged to verify before they share, to think before they react, and to choose truth over convenience,” he pressed.
Reyes noted that while social media offers speed and wide reach, it also requires discipline in consuming and sharing information.
“ASCOT believes that education goes beyond the classroom. Activities like this strengthen critical thinking, ethical responsibility, and civic awareness, values that our students will carry with them long after graduation,” he emphasized.
Informed youth for sustainable development
APECO President and Chief Executive Officer Gil Taway IV stressed that empowering youth with strong media and information literacy supports long-term development efforts in Aurora.
“Fake news and disinformation do not only mislead individuals, they undermine public trust, distort development narratives, and hinder meaningful progress.” the official furthered.
Taway said collaboration among APECO, ASCOT, and PIA reflects shared commitment to truthful communication, inclusive growth, and sustainable development grounded in facts, transparency, and community participation.
Through strengthened media literacy and responsible online habits, Aurora’s youth are emerging as informed citizens supporting the province’s inclusive and sustainable growth. (CLJD/MAT, PIA Region 3-Aurora)
