Information deficiency

A recent segment on It’s Showtime stirred netizens when a contestant failed to identify what Comelec stands for. Host Vice Ganda asked the contestant what she could say to the commission, but she responded that she was not knowledgeable about the abbreviation. The host attempted to probe her awareness of current events, but the contestant retorted that the office in question seldom appeared on her newsfeed. Many described the situation as "bothersome," but to me, that is an understatement.

A 2022 study by SWS revealed that the internet is the primary source of information for middle-aged individuals. Despite the presence of mainstream media and legitimate sources on digital platforms, the sheer scope of information available is overwhelming. The power of user control is also significant, allowing individuals to choose what they engage with. Moreover, algorithms work in favor of users' preferences, pushing content that aligns with their interests. In my view, this leads to the burial of journalistic work on our individual feeds, causing the younger generation and even others to miss out on crucial current events.

Many were quick to blame the Department of Education (DepEd) for the information deficiency displayed on national television—a phenomenon that has occurred multiple times. However, the responsibility cannot rest on this department alone. As the old African adage goes, "It takes a village to raise a child." We all share the duty of educating the next generation, ensuring they are exposed to essential knowledge and guiding them in filtering the content they consume.

Of course, we cannot overlook the role of parents and guardians. The discipline they instill at home is incomparable to what is taught in schools. DepEd’s modules are data-driven, meticulously designed through thorough research to address learners' needs. Teachers, too, should not be held solely accountable. They juggle multiple responsibilities, from administrative tasks to training for extracurricular activities, all while managing their own households. Additionally, we are losing many talented educators to better opportunities abroad, making it increasingly difficult to maintain a competitive educational system.

It is also high time that legislation on social media regulation be passed. Platforms must adhere to stricter guidelines regarding posted content, ensuring that news and informative material are prioritized in algorithms. Social media operators should take a stronger stance against disinformation, going beyond mere enforcement of community guidelines. They must actively contribute to creating an informed citizenry.

At the end of the day, the contestant is a reflection of today's youth—apathetic to the realities of life. Many are trapped in echo chambers, insulated within digital bubbles that provide a false sense of security. This is why they struggle to connect with pressing issues; they are simply unaware. May this incident serve as a wake-up call to busy parents who often leave their children in the care of the internet. Our role as adults is not just about ensuring survival but also about providing guidance. The responsibility extends beyond education—it is about shaping a well-informed and socially aware generation.