Refocusing Perspectives

[This thought was first posted in my Facebook page after reflecting on social media discourse and in understanding the dynamics of relation in social networks.] Technology radically shift global and peoples relations. The advent of information technology democratized the world and empowered people to write their thoughts online; share information which strongly affected them directly & indirectly; challenge leaders' management of state affairs; make their demands more pronounced in social networks; share joys on their family gathering and socialization; and, articulate facts from their experiences and learning. It is actually complementing and supporting the work of journalists and reporters-- helping them vivify and validate social concerns, problems, issues, and argue matters principle-based, although at times, some ideation would appear dull to the intelligent or annoying to the arrogant. The voices and thoughts of these people crossed national boundaries, cultu...

Lecture delivered by Violeta M. Gloria to civil society organization  in Iligan and Lanao initiated by MPPM & LAHRA at Palao, Iligan city;  October 8, 2013; 1-5pm. What is freedom? What is information?  Depending on socio-political context and philosophical perspective, freedom can be defined in many ways. Is freedom a necessity? As peoples are subject of social contract, don’t we like that our freedom be controlled and managed by government? Do you really need information? Is your sense of freedom dependent on the kind of information that you gain from the academe? From community? From government? From international organizations? Why do you think media workers and non-government organizations are/should be in the front line in advocating for Freedom on Information? These are just essential preliminary questions that can be raised as advocacy on FOI and frustration over corruption or public disservice are mounted nowadays. Two hours ago, I over...