Senator Loren Legarda emphasized the need for a robust campaign against fake news and disinformation, while underscoring the urgency of addressing misinformation and rehabilitating the facilities of the state-run People’s Television Network (PTV‑4).

Legarda made the statement on Tuesday during a plenary session as she sponsored the PCO’s proposed budget, which was headed by Secretary Dave Gomez.

According to Legarda, disinformation, misinformation, and unreliable reports have been causing confusion among the public, making it necessary for all government messages to be clear and properly sourced.

“Messaging is so important. Disinformation, misinformation, inaccuracy, and messages lost in translation confuse the people,” Legarda said during a Senate session.

She also expressed support for pending measures aimed at combating fake news, including the Anti-Troll Farm Act and the Freedom of Information bill being pushed by Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III and Senator Robin Padilla.

Legarda said fake news and disinformation pose a significant threat and may influence public perception, underscoring the importance of relying on verified information.

She encouraged both government and private journalists to consistently uphold accuracy and to avoid being used for political purposes.

The senator also raised concern over individuals who fabricate or distort information, noting the rise of free online platforms that allow the widespread posting of unverified content.

Legarda likewise agreed with the recommendations of Senators Raffy Tulfo and Erwin Tulfo for major improvements in the facilities and personnel of the government television network PTV-4, citing the need for stronger communication capability within the public sector.

“It’s clearly mismanaged. And for the past years, no capital outlay was given by the government,” the senator said.