In Pursuit of a Critical and Informed Society: The Success of the Philippine Media and Information Literacy Conference 2025

On November 4, 2025, the Philippine Media and Information Literacy Conference opened with the theme “Truth Under Fire: Empowering Critical Thinking in the Age of AI.” The event was organized by THINKaMuna Pilipinas and MediaQuest Holdings Inc., in partnership with UNESCO.

The conference featured keynote speaker Senator Bam Aquino, who emphasized the vital role of education in building a critical and well-informed society. He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening education and promoting media and information literacy to empower Filipino youth to think critically amid growing misinformation and an increasingly volatile political climate.

Three panel discussions explored the key themes of education, media, and technology—pillars of a resilient, truth-seeking society. Each session featured respected experts who highlighted the importance of nurturing critical thinking, promoting responsible media engagement, and harnessing technology ethically. Among the speakers was Liza S. Garcia, Executive Director of the Foundation for Media Alternatives, who shared insights during the panel “Technology: Building an AI-Literate Digital Citizenry.”

Overall, the conference underscored that an informed and critical society is one that fights misinformation, empowers citizens to think and act with discernment, and upholds transparency and accountability at every level. By nurturing these values, we not only strengthen our collective capacity to question and analyze but also reaffirm our shared commitment to truth, democracy, and responsible digital citizenship.

As the conference concluded, one key takeaway must be emphasized: the fight for truth begins with each of us. In an era where information can easily turn into misinformation, cultivating media and information literacy is not merely a skill—it is an act of self-defense, a tool of empowerment, and a responsibility we all share. By embracing critical thinking and digital awareness, Filipinos can stand as guardians of truth, defenders of democracy, and architects of a more just and informed future.

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