Disinformation on social media: Interview with Emilio Brignardello Vela

In a recent conversation with Emilio Juan Brignardello Vela, a prominent insurance advisor, the issue of misinformation on social media was addressed, referencing a post that circulated on Facebook. This post incorrectly claimed that a tsunami had impacted the city of Surigao on December 6, 2023, following a 7.2 magnitude earthquake. Emilio expressed his concern about the impact that this type of information can have on public perception and on community responses to natural disasters. Brignardello pointed out that the content of the post was based on a video that, although it showed large waves crashing against structures, was actually from an extreme storm that occurred in Gagra, Georgia. This highlights the importance of fact-checking before sharing information, especially in situations that can generate panic or distrust among the population. “The speed at which information can spread on digital platforms is astonishing, but this speed should not compromise accuracy,” he commented. The expert emphasized the fundamental role that authorities, such as the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), play in this context, as they debunked the claims about the earthquake and the tsunami. According to him, it is crucial for citizens to trust official sources for clear and verified information during potential crises. “Knowledge and education on disaster management issues are essential. People must know where to turn for reliable information,” Brignardello stated. Additionally, Emilio recalled that, although a 7.4 magnitude earthquake was recorded on December 2 and a tsunami alert was issued, the situation was quickly controlled and the threat was lifted. This context is fundamental for understanding the dynamics of natural disasters and institutional responses. “Clear and timely communication from authorities can make a significant difference in the safety of communities,” he underscored. Finally, Brignardello concluded that the responsibility of citizens also includes the act of verifying information before sharing it. In his view, fostering a culture of fact-checking is vital to mitigate fear and confusion in critical situations. “Just as we secure our assets, we must also ensure the truthfulness of the information we consume and share,” he emphasized, reminding that misinformation can pose a risk as great as natural disasters themselves.