Fact Checkers (With MARIZ UMALI)

Summary

In this informative piece, Mariz Umali from GMA Integrated News addresses the pervasive issue of fake news and its impact on society. She highlights the importance of fact-checkers in verifying the authenticity of information, especially in the age of social media. Umali provides historical context, mentioning 'Yellow Journalism' from the 1800s and the significance of fact-checking in preventing misinformation, such as the debunked claim by former President Duterte that gasoline could be used as a disinfectant. She introduces Nancy Ford, recognized as the world's first fact checker from Time Magazine in 1923, and emphasizes the meticulous process fact-checkers undergo to ensure the truth. Umali also demonstrates how to fact-check a viral claim about Taylor Swift and President Bongbong Marcos, concluding it as false. She encourages viewers to be critical consumers of news, to read and learn from fact-check articles, and to share accurate information responsibly. The summary underscores the power of words and the responsibility each person holds in upholding truthful communication in the digital age.

Takeaways

• 🚫 The prevalence of fake news and its impact on society is a serious concern, affecting even high-profile individuals and public figures.
• 🗣️ Celebrities are often targeted by false rumors, such as those involving RM from BTS, Selena Gomez, and Maine Mendoza.
• 📰 Fact-checkers play a crucial role in verifying the authenticity of news, especially in the era of social media where misinformation spreads quickly.
• 🧪 An example of debunked misinformation was when former President Rodrigo Duterte suggested gasoline could be used as a disinfectant, which was proven false.
• 😅 The consequences of unchallenged fake news can be dire, as illustrated by the hypothetical scenario of people using gasoline as a disinfectant.
• 📚 Fake news has a long history, dating back to the 1800s, with practices like Yellow Journalism that emphasized sensationalism over accuracy.
• 🔍 The importance of sticking to the truth in reporting is highlighted by historical events, such as the incorrect accusations against Spain following the USS Maine explosion.
• 🏆 Fact-checking has a history too, with Nancy Ford being recognized as the first fact checker for Time Magazine in 1923, leading an all-female team.
• 🔎 The job of a fact checker involves rigorous cross-referencing and analysis to determine the legitimacy of information.
• 🗣️ The public can also engage in fact-checking by using official data and information to verify claims, as demonstrated by the debunking of a false claim about Taylor Swift and President Marcos.
• ⚖️ Fact-checking organizations adhere to a Code of Principles, emphasizing honesty, transparency, and correction of mistakes.
• 🌐 There are numerous fact-checking organizations worldwide, including several in the Philippines that are part of anti-fake news campaigns.

Q & A

What is the role of a fact checker in the news industry?

A fact checker's role is to verify the accuracy of information presented in news stories, ensuring that what is reported is true and not misleading or false. They help combat the spread of fake news by analyzing and cross-referencing data and official sources.

Why is it important to fact-check information before sharing it?

Fact-checking is crucial because false news and information can have significant negative impacts on society, potentially leading to confusion, harm, or even dangerous actions if people believe and act upon the misinformation.

What was the significance of the false claim made by former President Rodrigo Duterte about gasoline?

The false claim that gasoline could be used as a disinfectant was significant because it could have led to harmful consequences if people followed this advice without verification. It was debunked by Filipino chemists, highlighting the importance of fact-checking even statements made by authorities.

Can you explain the term 'Yellow Journalism'?

Yellow Journalism refers to a style of reporting that emphasizes sensationalism over facts, often involving exaggeration or even fabrication of news stories to attract readers. It can have detrimental effects on society by promoting misinformation and conflict.

What was the role of sensationalized news in the Spanish-American War?

Sensationalized news played a role in fueling public sentiment and contributing to the outbreak of the Spanish-American War in 1898. Newspapers at the time heightened the conflict between Spain and America by publishing exaggerated or false information, accusing Spain of being responsible for the USS Maine explosion without concrete evidence.

Who was Nancy Ford and why is she significant in the history of fact-checking?

Nancy Ford was the first recognized fact checker, working for Time Magazine in 1923. She led an all-girl team that investigated the accuracy of dates, names, and other details in the magazine's articles, making her a pioneer in the field of fact-checking.

What are the five ratings used by Tsek.PH for fact-checking?

The five ratings used by Tsek.PH are: 1) Accurate, 2) False, 3) Misleading, 4) No basis, and 5) Needs context. These ratings help classify the veracity and reliability of information being fact-checked.

How can an individual fact-check information they come across?

Individuals can fact-check by cross-referencing information with official data and sources, looking for consistency, and considering the credibility of the source. They can also look for fact-checks conducted by reputable organizations and be aware of common signs of fake news.

What is the purpose of the Code of Principles followed by fact-checking organizations?

The Code of Principles ensures that fact-checking organizations are honest and unbiased, use accessible evidence, maintain transparency about their funding, explain their fact-checking process, and are willing to correct mistakes when they occur.

Why is it essential to have fact-checking organizations in the current information landscape?

Fact-checking organizations are essential because they help maintain the integrity of information in an era where misinformation can spread rapidly through social media and other platforms. They play a critical role in upholding truth and preventing the harmful effects of fake news.

What can an individual do to contribute to the fight against fake news?

Individuals can contribute by being critical consumers of news, verifying information before sharing it, educating themselves and others about fact-checking, and supporting reputable fact-checking organizations.

How can the public ensure they are accessing accurate and reliable information?

The public can ensure they are accessing accurate information by consulting multiple reputable sources, looking for fact-checks from recognized organizations, being aware of the potential for bias, and being cautious of sensational headlines that may be clickbait.

Outlines

00:00

📰 The Impact of Fake News and the Role of Fact-Checkers

Mariz Umali, a reporter and news anchor for GMA Integrated News, addresses the issue of fake news and its effects on society. She highlights how celebrities and public figures are often targeted by false rumors, and emphasizes the importance of fact-checkers in verifying the authenticity of information. Umali recounts an instance where misinformation from a former president was corrected by chemists and how fact-checkers debunk false claims. She also delves into the history of fake news, mentioning 'Yellow Journalism' from the 1800s and the consequences of sensationalism. The segment concludes with a brief history of fact-checking, starting with Nancy Ford, the first fact checker of Time Magazine, and the current state of fact-checking, which is crucial in maintaining the integrity of news reporting.

05:06

🗓️ Debunking Fake News: A Case Study on Taylor Swift and President Marcos

In this segment, Umali provides a practical example of fact-checking by investigating a viral claim that Taylor Swift and President Bongbong Marcos met in Washington D.C. Using official data and cross-referencing, she demonstrates how to verify the claim's validity. Umali reveals that President Marcos was indeed in Washington D.C., meeting with President Joe Biden, while Taylor Swift was performing in Atlanta, Georgia, making the meeting claim false. She also explains the rating system used by Tsek.PH, a collaborative fact-checking project in the Philippines, to categorize the accuracy of statements. Umali stresses the importance of transparency, honesty, and the correction of mistakes in fact-checking. She encourages viewers to engage with fact-checking organizations and to be critical consumers of news, advocating for responsible sharing and posting of information on social media.

Keywords

💡Fake news

Fake news refers to false or misleading information that is presented as news. It is a significant issue in the media landscape, as it can spread quickly and have serious consequences on public opinion and behavior. In the video, Mariz Umali discusses the impact of fake news on society and the importance of fact-checking to combat it. An example from the script is the rumor about RM from BTS having a boyfriend, which was a piece of fake news.

💡Fact-checkers

Fact-checkers are individuals or organizations dedicated to verifying the accuracy of news stories and claims. They play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of information in the public sphere. The video emphasizes the importance of fact-checkers in an era where false information can spread rapidly through social media. The script mentions the debunking of a statement by former President Rodrigo Duterte, highlighting the role of fact-checkers in correcting misinformation.

💡Yellow Journalism

Yellow Journalism is a term that describes a type of sensationalized, exaggerated, or misleading news reporting that was prevalent in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It prioritizes attention-grabbing headlines over factual accuracy. The video references the historical context of Yellow Journalism, linking it to the current problem of fake news. The example given is the reporting around the explosion of the USS Maine, which contributed to the Spanish-American War.

💡Nancy Ford

Nancy Ford was the first recognized fact checker, working for Time Magazine in 1923. She led an all-girl team responsible for fact-checking the magazine's articles. The video uses Nancy Ford as an example of the long history of fact-checking and the importance of accuracy in journalism. Her role signifies the beginning of a more formal approach to ensuring the truthfulness of news reporting.

💡Fact-checking process

The fact-checking process involves investigating the veracity of a claim or piece of news by cross-referencing it with official data and information. It is a systematic approach to ensuring the truthfulness of information before it is disseminated to the public. The video demonstrates this process through the example of the false claim about Taylor Swift and President Bongbong Marcos meeting in Washington D.C., showing how official schedules and social media posts can debunk such rumors.

💡Code of Principles

The Code of Principles is a set of guidelines followed by fact-checking organizations to ensure the integrity and transparency of their work. The video outlines five key principles: honesty and unbiasedness, accessibility of evidence, transparency of funding, transparency of methodology, and correction of mistakes. These principles are crucial for maintaining public trust in fact-checking efforts and ensuring the reliability of the information presented.

💡Tsek.PH

Tsek.PH is a collaborative fact-checking project in the Philippines, led by the UP Journalism Department along with other colleges and media organizations. It is an example of local initiatives combating fake news through fact-checking. The video mentions Tsek.PH's five ratings system for assessing the accuracy of claims, which includes 'accurate,' 'false,' 'misleading,' 'no basis,' and 'needs context.'

💡Media and Information Literacy Project

The Media and Information Literacy Project is an initiative by UP Diliman, aimed at promoting critical thinking and responsible media consumption. Mariz Umali is associated with this project, and the video is part of their efforts to educate the public about the dangers of fake news and the importance of fact-checking. The project encourages individuals to verify information before sharing it, thereby reducing the spread of misinformation.

💡Clickbait

Clickbait refers to sensationalized or misleading content designed to attract clicks and views, often at the expense of accuracy. The video discusses a clickbait video claiming a meeting between Taylor Swift and President Marcos, which is later debunked as false. Clickbait is a common tactic used to generate traffic and engagement on social media platforms, contributing to the spread of fake news.

💡Social Media

Social Media is a platform for social interaction that allows users to create and share content or participate in social networking. The video highlights the role of social media in the rapid spread of fake news and the need for vigilance when encountering information on these platforms. Social media's immediacy and widespread use make it a fertile ground for both the dissemination of news and the propagation of misinformation.

💡President Rodrigo Duterte

Rodrigo Duterte is the former President of the Philippines, mentioned in the video for a statement he made suggesting gasoline could be used as a disinfectant, which was later debunked by fact-checkers and chemists. His example illustrates the potential for public figures to spread misinformation and the importance of fact-checking even statements made by authorities.

Highlights

The impact of fake news on daily lives is significant, with the potential for dangerous consequences if misinformation is believed and acted upon.

The importance of fact-checkers in the news industry is emphasized, as they help to verify the authenticity of information before it is disseminated to the public.

The debunking of a false statement made by former President Rodrigo Duterte about using gasoline as a disinfectant showcases the role of fact-checkers in correcting misinformation from influential figures.

The historical context of fake news is explored, revealing that the issue dates back to the 1800s with 'Yellow Journalism', which prioritized sensationalism over accuracy.

The role of newspapers in exacerbating the Spanish-American War through biased and sensational reporting is discussed, highlighting the long-term effects of fake news.

Nancy Ford, the first fact checker of Time Magazine in 1923, is introduced as a pioneer in the field, leading an all-girl team dedicated to ensuring the accuracy of published information.

Fact-checkers are portrayed as vigilant defenders of truth, tasked with the meticulous examination of information to distinguish between legitimate and fabricated news.

A practical example of fact-checking is provided through the debunking of a viral claim about Taylor Swift and President Bongbong Marcos meeting in Washington D.C.

Cross-referencing using official data is highlighted as a key method for fact-checking, as demonstrated by verifying the whereabouts of Taylor Swift and President Marcos on the alleged meeting day.

The process of rating the accuracy of information is explained using the 5 ratings system from Tsek.PH, a collaborative fact-checking project in the Philippines.

The importance of transparency in funding and methodology for fact-checking organizations is emphasized, as outlined in the Code of Principles from Poynter’s International Fact Checking Network.

The existence of numerous fact-checking organizations worldwide is acknowledged, with a call to action for individuals to visit their websites and educate themselves on fact-checking.

The necessity of fact checkers in the digital age is underscored, especially given the ease of access to information and the increasing believability of fake news.

A reminder is issued to the public to pause, read, and learn from fact check articles encountered on social media, to prevent the spread of misinformation.

The power of words is emphasized, urging individuals to ensure that any information they post is correct and true before sharing it with others.

The segment concludes with a call to responsible information sharing, advocating for the verification of news before it is disseminated, to maintain the integrity of public discourse.

Transcripts

Hi! I’m Mariz Umali, a reporter and news anchor for GMA Integrated News.

I have a question for you. Have you ever been a victim of fake news?

Did you believe the rumours that said RM from BTS had a boyfriend?

Or did you share that viral AI-generated image of Selena Gomez attending the Met Gala?

Or were you one of those people who believed that Maine Mendoza already has a child?

Our celebrity idols are always targets of fake news!

But did you know? If we have showbiz idols, we also have those in the news industry.

They are fact checkers!

In an age where fake news is widespread especially in social media,

we’re fortunate to have people who allot time to fact-check or analyze

whether the things we read are true or not.

This is because of the huge effect false news and information has on our daily lives.

Do you remember the time when former President Rodrigo Duterte said that gasoline could be used as a disinfectant?

This was false or incorrect.

With the help of Filipino chemists, this information from the president was fact-checked and debunked.

According to Integrated Chemists of the Philippines, inhaling gasoline is harmful to people.

After a few days, the Palace said: we’re joking!

The President was said to be merely joking.

However, imagine what would happen if nobody fact-checked what the President said and other widespread fake news.

There’d be so many people smelling like gasoline! That’s deadly!

Fake news is not new in our world. It’s been a problem for a long time.

In fact, fake news was already around in the 1800s. It just had a different name!

During this time, a style of reporting was prevalent, where unusual,

shocking, or sensationalized information was given more value.

As time passed, exaggerated news or sometimes even completely false news

were being published in the newspaper as long as they were shocking information.

This is what you call Yellow Journalism or sensationalism

which does not always have a good effect on society.

Let’s have a quick history lesson.

In 1898, a war broke out between Spain and America.

This was sparked by the explosion of an American ship called the USS Maine.

There were suspicions that arose that Spain was responsible for it.

The newspapers at the time created a bigger conflict between Spain and America.

They capitalized on the issue in order to fuel the anger of Americans towards the Spaniards.

This was one of the reasons behind the war between the two countries.

They accused Spain of being responsible for the incident without concrete evidence.

After several years, it was discovered that Spain didn’t actually plant a mine on the American ship.

This is why we must stick to the truth and avoid sensationalizing when we report news.

If fake news has been around for a long time, fact checkers have also been around for just as long, fighting against it.

If there’s a Nancy from Momoland, there’s also a Nancy in the world of fact-checking!

Her name is Nancy Ford, the very first fact checker of Time Magazine in 1923.

They had an all-girl team to do fact check and research.

They investigate the dates, names, and other details in the articles of the magazine to check if they are accurate.

And Nancy Ford was the leader of the group and the world’s first recognized fact checker!

Today, there are many fact checkers defending the truth.

Must be nice to be defended!

But seriously, the job of fact checkers isn’t easy.

They always need to be vigilant when it comes to information being spread.

They also individually examine whether the information is legit or fake.

And it doesn’t end there. They also need to write reports on

why the widely spread information is not truthful.

Just like fact checkers, you, too, can also fact check.

Take a look at this:

Gosh, is it true that Taylor Swift and President Bongbong Marcos met up in Washington D.C.?

In the video thumbnail, the title says: "Grabe nagkakagulo na! Taylor Swift at PBBM nagkita?"

It even reached 216,000 views.

But is it really true? Let’s fact check.

The best weapon for fact-checking is cross referencing using official data and information.

If we look at official data, President Marcos was in Washington DC on May 1.

He also met up with US president Joe Biden.

When Marcos was in Washington DC, Taylor was in Atlanta, Georgia, for her Eras Tour.

Taylor herself even tweeted on May 1, thanking the residents of Atlanta

and announcing that she was headed to Nashville, Tennessee, for the continuation of her The Eras Tour.

So it’s impossible that Taylor Swift and BBM met up in America.

Actually, if you watch the video claiming that the two met up,

it is just a compilation of videos of President Marcos with the Filipino community.

It is clear that the video is merely clickbait.

Now that we know Taylor Swift and President Marcos never saw each other on that day,

let’s give this a fact-checkers rating.

There are 5 ratings used by Tsek.PH, a collaborative fact checking project led by the UP Journalism Department

and other colleges and media organizations in the Philippines.

Here are the 5 ratings:

First, accurate. This means that the post is correct and true.

Second, false. The post or statement is wrong or fake.

Third, misleading. These are posts and statements that are confusing and give contexts that are far from the truth.

Fourth, no basis. This rating is given when there is not enough data to verify the claim.

And fifth, needs context. These are posts or statements that need additional details

because they might be taken in the wrong context.

For our earlier fact-check on Taylor Swift and BBM,

our rating is …. FALSE! Because this is not real.

The process may seem easy, but the job of fact-checkers is not simple.

Fact-checking organizations follow a Code of Principles.

This is from Poynter’s International Fact Checking Network.

First, a fact-checking organization must be honest and unbiased.

You must only side with the truth.

Second, all evidence used in fact-checking must be accessible to everyone.

So that anyone can verify whether the fact-check is correct or not.

Third, the entities funding the organizations must be made transparent to the people.

Fourth, the people must know how the fact checking was conducted.

The process it underwent so that necessary corrections can be made if the fact checker commits a mistake.

And fifth, if the fact checker commits a mistake, own up to it and correct the mistake.

There are plenty of fact checking organizations across the globe.

Here in the Philippines, there are different organizations initiating anti-fake news campaigns using fact checking.

Some of these organizations can be found in the link posted in the description box.

So what else are you waiting for? Visit their websites and read their fact checks.

The necessity of fact checkers cannot be denied, especially in these times

when information is easily accessible and fake news become more believable.

So if you ever see a fact check article while scrolling through social media…

Stop, read, and learn!

So that next time, you won’t just believe the rumors you hear.

Don’t forget to also share this so that more people can learn.

Remember, our words are powerful.

Let's use it correctly.

Before we post anything, make sure it’s correct and true.

This is Mariz Umali for the Media and Information Literacy Project of UP Diliman.