Part 10/12:
Philippine political fact-checkers like Verifiles have faced significant hurdles, including intimidation and censorship. During the 2019 midterm elections, Verifiles was targeted, with accusations linking them to opposition movements or alleging conspiracy against the Duterte administration. In a society deeply divided along political lines, exposing false narratives can be dangerous—sometimes resulting in personal threats or attacks.
Political polarization has further complicated efforts to promote truth and accountability. When truth counters populist narratives or the nostalgia for a Philippine "golden age," it often encounters fierce resistance. This environment hampers not only fact-checking but also the broader struggle for historical justice and integrity.