Sereno: Fight vs fake news a fight for our souls

Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno PHOTO/Noy Morcoso, INQUIRER.net

Combating disinformation or fake news on social media should be a “personal fight for our very souls” and the country’s future, according to Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno.

In an interview with television host and law dean Mel Sta. Maria over the weekend, Sereno urged the youth to take the lead in fighting the spread of erroneous news articles on the internet, often intended to protect those in power while attacking persons regarded as critics or opposition figures.

“Be diligent with it because this is already a campaign for truth. With too much untruth, our society would fall,” the Chief Justice said.

‘Future at stake’

“We must stand against this. We must see it as a personal fight for our very souls. That’s how you must approach this battle. The future of the Filipino [people] is at stake with the proliferation of fake news and vitriol, hatred,” she said.

The Chief Justice, who was compelled by her fellow magistrates to take an indefinite leave from the Supreme Court amid her imminent impeachment trial in the Senate, also spoke out against bullying and misogyny as she reminded women of their inherent power to bring about change in society.

Sereno, the first woman to head the judiciary, reiterated that she would not allow herself to give in to calls for her to quit despite the continued efforts of President Duterte’s allies to kick her out from the 15-member tribunal.

“The first thing a woman must understand,” the Chief Justice said, “is that there will always be power play in the power structure within any organization. Every woman must show that she’s one who will not allow herself to be bullied.”

Fight bullies

She said Filipinos should show courage by resisting attacks against the Constitution and attempts to weaken the country’s democratic institutions.

Sereno then likened her fight to the struggle of all individuals who were being bullied by those in power.

“It is when hope seems to be at its dimmest when you must be at your bravest,” Sereno said. “You should not give up. You must fight with good ideas.”

“In times like this, we should not let cowardice get the better of us. We must show the Filipino’s bravery and courage. It’s not important if I have so many enemies, or if I have a slim chance of avoiding a conviction in the Senate,” she said in
Filipino.

“What’s important is for us to keep up with the gallantry our race is known for. We’re no cowards. We will not cower in fear. We will not be bullied.”