Veteran broadcaster and award-winning Kapamilya journalist Noli de Castro, fondly known as “Kabayan,” has weighed in on the growing threat of fake news and its implications for the journalism profession.
De Castro expressed confidence in the enduring role of authentic journalists amid the rampant spread of misinformation, particularly as the country navigates an election season marked by heightened online disinformation campaigns.
“Tayong mga tunay na journalists, tayo ang sasalo doon sa mga kasinungalingan ng mga fake news. Ico-correct natin,” de Castro remarked, addressing concerns raised during a recent congressional inquiry into the proliferation of fake news. The inquiry spotlighted allegations that social media influencers, often paid by powerful entities, are orchestrating coordinated efforts to spread falsehoods, raising questions about the integrity of information circulating online.
De Castro emphasized that real journalists bear the critical responsibility of setting the record straight. “Itutuwid natin iyong mga fake news na iyon. Without us, sino ang magcocorrect, wala di ba?” he said, underscoring the indispensable role of the press in combating misinformation. His comments come at a time when the lines between credible reporting and orchestrated narratives are increasingly blurred, fueled by the rise of social media influencers who some have dubbed “the new journalists.”
However, with reports exposing influencers peddling fake news for profit, de Castro pointed to the enduring credibility of traditional media as a counterforce.
“Yung tradisyunal na media outlets, like radio and television, especially sa radio, sila ang nagco-correct ng nangyayari sa paligid natin, lalong lalo na kung ‘di totoo,” he said. As a veteran radio broadcaster himself, de Castro highlighted the unique ability of established platforms to provide clarity and context amid the chaos of online misinformation.
The timing of Kabayan’s statements aligns with a broader national campaign to curb the weaponization of fake news, a phenomenon that has intensified as the election season gains momentum. Misinformation has become a tool for some groups and individuals to manipulate public perception and advance personal or political agendas, often at the expense of truth and accountability. This trend has sparked a heated debate: Are social media influencers, many of whom lack journalistic training or ethical grounding, displacing real journalists?
For de Castro, the answer is clear—true journalists remain irreplaceable. Yet, the shifting media landscape poses undeniable risks. The proliferation of paid disinformation not only undermines public trust but also threatens the livelihoods of legitimate reporters who dedicate their careers to uncovering facts. In extreme cases, the spread of fake news has been linked to real-world consequences, including endangering lives—a sobering reminder of the stakes involved.
As the Philippines grapples with these challenges, de Castro’s voice serves as a beacon for the industry. His decades-long career, marked by a commitment to integrity and public service, stands in stark contrast to the fleeting influence of those who profit from deceit. With the 2025 elections looming, his call to action resonates: real journalists must rise to the occasion, correcting the lies that threaten to drown out the truth.
In a media environment increasingly crowded with noise, Kabayan’s words remind us that the fight against fake news is not just a battle for credibility—it’s a defense of democracy itself.
