Summary of "NSTP-CWTS Second Semester SY 2024-2025 Orientation"

Summary of NSTP-CWTS Second Semester SY 2024-2025 Orientation Video

The orientation is conducted by the Digitalo team, coordinated by Anim Canel, under the College of Computer Studies at Central Philippine University (CPU).
Digitalo is a digital literacy and leadership program supported by Google.org, CPU, Asan Foundation, Iloilo City Public Library, Philippine Librarians Association Western Visayas, Limitless Lab, and Break the Fake Movement.
The program aims to train Filipinos, especially students, to become digitally intelligent and responsible digital citizens.
Digitalo is part of the broader ASEAN Digital Leadership Program (ADLP), implemented in several ASEAN countries.

Since 2022, Digitalo has trained over 11,800 Filipinos nationwide, including students, faculty, persons deprived of liberty, indigenous communities, and local government units.
The program has been conducted in various formats: online, hybrid, and on-site.
Digitalo has received awards and recognition, including a merit award at the E-learning Forum for Asia and second place in CPU’s community engagement awards.

As of January 2024, the Philippines has 86 million internet users, with 92 million active social media users spending almost 11 hours daily online.
Despite heavy social media use, more than half of Filipinos struggle to identify fake news, which is considered a serious problem by 70% of users.
The program aims to address misinformation, disinformation, and the challenges of digital information consumption.

Information should be factual, reliable, and help in decision-making.
Traditional sources include libraries, TV, radio, newspapers, and word of mouth.
Modern sources include social media platforms, which have both positive (accessibility of information) and negative (unfiltered, unverified content) aspects.
Distinction between journalists (trained professionals with ethical codes) and influencers (often opinion-based and sometimes paid to promote products/services).
Journalists provide factual, on-the-ground reporting, while influencers share personal opinions that may be biased.

Misinformation: False information shared unintentionally.
Disinformation: Deliberately false information intended to harm or create chaos.
Trolls (paid individuals/groups) spread disinformation for profit or political motives.
Types of misinformation/disinformation include:
- False connection (clickbait headlines)
- Satire/parody (exaggerated or humorous content)
- Impostor content (fake identities or organizations)
- Manipulated content (altered images/videos)
- False content (true information presented out of context)
- Fabricated content (completely made-up)
- Misleading content (reinforces false narratives)
Less than 10% of users intentionally spread disinformation; most do so unknowingly.

Everyone has biases shaped by culture, religion, experiences, etc.
Bias affects how we consume and share information online.
Confirmation bias leads people to seek information that supports their existing beliefs.
Being aware of and challenging one’s biases is crucial to avoid unfair judgments and misinformation spread.

Characteristics of a responsible digital citizen:
- Critical thinker
- Uses technology ethically
- Stands up for truth and justice
- Protects oneself and family from misinformation and online harm
Fact-checking tips:
- Verify if the headline matches the content.
- Check the credibility of the website (.com, .gov, .ph domains).
- Use Google Fact Checker Explorer tool.
Social media sharing do’s and don’ts:
- Avoid using social media as a personal diary or ATM.
- Call out misinformation politely and supportively.
Online safety tips:
- Use strong passwords.
- Avoid clicking suspicious links.
- Update devices regularly.
- Be aware of scams (romance scams, text scams, phishing, lottery scams).
Report harassment or scams to authorities such as the National Bureau of Investigation and Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group.
Maintain a healthy, balanced relationship with technology by managing screen time and avoiding social media before bedtime.

Pre-Test Participation
- Scan QR code to complete a pre-test assessing current knowledge and social media habits.
Fact-Checking Steps
- Check if the headline matches the content.
- Verify the website’s reputation and domain.
- Use the Google Fact Checker Explorer tool.
Calling Out Misinformation
- Use supportive, non-confrontational language.
- Provide credible sources.
- Privately message when appropriate.
- Comment publicly on satire/parody posts to clarify.
Online Safety Practices
- Use strong, unique passwords.
- Avoid clicking on unknown or suspicious links.
- Regularly update software and devices.
- Verify legitimacy of offers by contacting companies or banks directly.
Reporting Online Harassment and Scams
- Report incidents to the National Bureau of Investigation.
- Report to the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group.
Managing Digital Well-being
- Set daily limits on social media usage.
- Avoid social media before bedtime to promote better sleep.

Anim Canel Program Coordinator of the Library Information Science Program, College of Computer Studies, Central Philippine University; Team leader and convener of the Digitalo program.
Professor Anal Hilongos Faculty member of the National Service Training Program (NSTP), part of the organizing team.
Supporting Organizations and Partners
- Google.org
- Central Philippine University
- Asan Foundation
- Iloilo City Public Library
- Philippine Librarians Association Western Visayas
- Limitless Lab
- Break the Fake Movement