The Malabon City Government has been officially recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as one of only nine Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Pilot Cities in the world.

The recognition underscores the city’s initiatives to promote responsible media use, critical thinking, and digital inclusion among its residents.

City Administrator Dr. Alexander Rosete represented Malabon during the online conference “Launching MIL Cities: Connecting Communities through Information and Culture.”

He said the city is working to build a “thinking culture,” where people are encouraged to analyze, verify, and use information responsibly.

“In Malabon, we see Media and Information Literacy not just as a skill, but as a way of thinking — a mindset that empowers every citizen to question, reflect, and act responsibly.

Building a thinking culture starts with our people — when every Malabueño learns to seek truth, value dialogue, and use information wisely. Empowered citizens are the foundation of a progressive city,” he said.

Rosete identified information overload as one of the major barriers to cultivating critical thinking, noting that people are constantly bombarded with unverified information online.

“People today are constantly bombarded with information that isn’t always verified. Without critical thinking, we risk accepting misinformation as truth,” he said.

He also cited challenges that are distinct to the Philippines and Malabon, such as limited internet connectivity in coastal and flood-prone communities, the use of formal English in most learning materials, and a tendency to avoid open dialogue or critical discussions.

In response, the city government is rolling out Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Hubs through heritage tours that feature “fact vs. myth” storytelling at local landmarks.

The project aims to promote accurate historical knowledge while encouraging media awareness among residents and visitors.

The city government also plans to open MIL Hubs in barangays and museums where people can verify information, participate in discussions, and learn about responsible media use.

Rosete also introduced the role of MIL Ambassadors composed of tour guides, youth leaders, and volunteers, who will promote digital responsibility and turn tourist sites into learning spaces.

To reach communities with limited internet access, the city is implementing Mobile MIL Caravans, Tagalog-based workshops, and offline learning tools such as posters, brochures, and radio segments for out-of-school youth and informal workers.

He also emphasized the link between media literacy, cultural heritage, and emotional learning through the city’s upcoming Cultural Mapping Project, which aims to preserve heritage while nurturing empathy and respect in communication.

The city continues to use Malabon TV, the All Hazard One Network (AHON) App, and CMU I-Connect to share verified news, educational programs, and emergency information with the public.

“Media and Information Literacy connects with cultural legacy through the preservation and responsible promotion of local heritage — and with social-emotional literacy by fostering empathy, respect, and collaboration in communication,” the city administrator added.