De Lima commends media orgs’ drive vs. fake news in social media

Senator Leila De Lima. (File photo: Jess Escaros Jr./PNA)

MANILA—Senator Leila de Lima on Sunday expressed support to media outlets which have gone their way to lead campaigns against the spread of fake news on social media.

In a statement, de Lima cited GMA News Online and Rappler for actively checking on some hoaxes being shared and re-shared to the public and stopping the spread of hatred and insults on social media.

“I commend these two media organizations for asserting their democratic role of gatekeepers not only of public morals but also of truth, respect and decency in public life,” de Lima said.

The neophyte senator also acknowledged the differing views and opinions on issues that matter to majority of Filipinos.

“Like many of you, however, I also resent all and every deliberate and malicious attempt to curse, trash, degrade, humiliate and even intimate our people,” she added.

She further said that although she respected expression of dissent and even frustration on social media, she stressed that she will not tolerate any attempt to silence freedom of speech.