President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. warned against the growing abuse of technology and social media, calling the widespread proliferation of fake news, political defamation and online scams “worrisome.”
Speaking during the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected officers of the National Movement of Young Legislators (NMYL) at Malacañang on Wednesday, President Marcos acknowledged that while digital platforms have revolutionized public service by making constituent feedback more accessible, they are increasingly exploited for malicious intent.
“Social media, I think probably in terms of political life, has been the biggest game changer,”Marcos said. “However, naabuso na ngayon ‘yan, and that has gone too far. And now, it’s fake news… there are political reasons for doing fake news, sinisiraan ‘yung kalaban, and all of that.”
The President pointed out that beyond political attacks, bad actors now use these powerful tools to sow public discord and commit financial fraud.
He challenged the young lawmakers, composed of elected local officials aged 40 and below, to wield their positions responsibly and prioritize listening to the needs of their constituents.
“You have such powerful tools in your hands these days because of technology,” Marcos told the leaders, urging them to resist digital abuse and anchor their leadership in integrity, compassion, and genuine public service.