March 28, 2025.The AWAYYU PANGAT: Media Literacy Seminar brought together student leaders to tackle key issues in media literacy, ethical journalism, and responsible information-sharing. The event aimed to equip participants with the skills to identify fake news, understand financial and health-related misinformation, and navigate the legal aspects of media use.
Sir Israelski L. Balagso led the discussions on Media Information & Digital Literacy, focusing on how to spot and debunk fake news, misleading content, and false context. Karen M. Lanipao, from the Missionary Sisters of St. Columban, emphasized Media Cultural Literacy, linking communication with spirituality and sharing insightful Bible verses on the topic. Marinell M. Tocyapao provided valuable insights on Media Financial Literacy, offering practical tips on managing personal finances and savings. Meanwhile, Kevin T. Bancud tackled Media Health Literacy, debunking common health myths circulating online, such as the false claims about putting onions on one’s socks and misleading vaccine information. As part of this discussion, the P.A.N.G.A.T Framework for Media Literacy was introduced, stressing the importance of using Proven Sources, Assessing the Age of Information, Neutral Language, Grounded Facts, and Asking Trusted Sources when engaging with media.
Atty. Celeste Roxanne B. Bencio led the session on Media Legal Literacy, discussing the legal consequences of spreading false information online, including potential liabilities when posting fake news about individuals or organizations. The seminar also highlighted Ethical Leadership and Journalism in Media Health Literacy, encouraging participants to think before they share, verify their sources, and take an active role in combating misinformation as Media Health Literacy Advocates. An engaging Q&A session allowed students to interact with the speakers, particularly in the Media Legal Literacy segment, where they explored real-life legal implications of false reporting.
Student leaders from Kalinga State University, including members of the Supreme Student Council (SSC), Student Body Organization (SBO), The Earthline, and the Rotaract Club, participated actively, sharing their perspectives on media literacy. Through this seminar, participants were empowered to be ethical and informed media consumers and communicators, reinforcing the idea that leadership is about influence and shaping a society built on truth, integrity, and accountability. //Rodz Pagdanganan-OJT
