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Seasoned communications leader Joe R. Zaldarriaga believes that media literacy is no longer optional—it’s essential in today’s fast-paced digital world. Speaking to foreign service officers of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on August 20, 2025, Zaldarriaga highlighted the urgent need for critical thinking and responsible communication to counter the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation.

The event marked the launch of the DFA’s “Truth, Talk and Tactics” media and information literacy program, a timely initiative aimed at equipping diplomats with the tools to discern fact from falsehood. Drawing from nearly four decades of experience in strategic communications, Zaldarriaga shared actionable insights on navigating the complex information ecosystem.

“In the current digital landscape, decoding fake news is an ongoing journey of critical thinking. Foreign service officers must ensure that the public only receives timely, accurate, and verified information,” said Zaldarriaga, who serves as Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications.

Zaldarriaga, also a board member of the Public Relations Society of the Philippines, stressed the need for collective responsibility in promoting media literacy:

“We need to make our peers more equipped to reduce the spread of misinformation. This will enable us to lead with transparency and integrity, ensuring that truth prevails to safeguard public trust.”

His message resonated strongly with the DFA’s advocacy for responsible digital citizenship. The program aims to empower foreign service officers with critical thinking skills, helping them identify credible sources and counter misleading narratives—an essential task in an era where false information can go viral in seconds.

For Zaldarriaga, the fight against misinformation is not just about protecting facts; it’s about preserving public trust and strengthening democratic institutions.