Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Dave Gomez called on media practitioners to defend truth and uphold journalism’s role in democracy amid the growing threats of artificial intelligence (AI) and disinformation.

Speaking at the World Association of News Publishers (WAN-IFRA) Digital Media Asia 2026 Conference at the Manila Hotel on Tuesday, April 28, Gomez said the fight against fake news has become more urgent than ever.

“We battle disinformation and fake news every day, every hour, every minute, every second. They are like a venom that poisons the hearts and minds of our people,” he said.

Gomez said the news industry is at a critical juncture as digital transformation reshapes how information is produced and consumed.

He noted that audiences now consume news through mobile devices and digital platforms, fundamentally changing traditional newsroom operations.

The PCO chief said the traditional business model of media is facing serious challenges.

“The traditional model that sustained us for generations is under siege,” he said, citing declining print and broadcast revenues.

He added that audiences are fragmenting across social media, video platforms, podcasts, and emerging AI interfaces.

Gomez acknowledged the growing role of artificial intelligence in journalism but stressed that it should support—not replace—human journalists.

“The key is augmentation, not replacement,” he said.

He noted that AI can assist in data analysis, translation, and automated reporting, allowing journalists to focus on deeper investigative work.

He, however, warned about the rise of “zero-click” environments, where AI platforms summarize news content without directing users to original sources.

Gomez said this trend is contributing to declining referral traffic and reduced visibility for news organizations by 10 to 15 percent — or more — in key markets.

Gomez said the industry is also facing a crisis of trust, worsened by disinformation, deepfakes, and algorithm-driven polarization.

“Distinguishing truth from fabrication has become exponentially harder,” he said.

He added that fake news spreads faster and cheaper than verified information, further complicating the media landscape.

“We battle disinformation and fake news every day. They are like a venom that poisons the hearts and minds of our people and undermines the very foundation of freedom of speech and of the press,” he said.

With this, Gomez highlighted the government’s efforts to combat disinformation, including the launch of a whole-of-government strategy against fake news.

He said the PCO has established a 24/7 Anti-Fake News Desk and strengthened coordination with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

Gomez noted that younger audiences are increasingly turning to influencers and personality-driven content rather than traditional media.

He said this shift underscores the need for news organizations to adapt and reconnect with their audiences.

Despite the challenges, Gomez expressed optimism about the future of journalism.

“News organizations are addressing these challenges with creativity, collaboration, and courage,” he said.

He urged publishers to embrace digital transformation and explore new revenue streams such as subscriptions, events, and data-driven services.

Gomez ended his speech with a call to action for the media industry.

“The digital age calls us to evolve… to defend truth with unwavering resolve,” he said.

He added that journalism must remain anchored in truth-seeking, innovation, and service to the public good.

Gomez noted that this year’s conference marks the first time the Philippines is hosting the WAN-IFRA Digital Media Asia event.

He described the gathering as “historic,” bringing together media leaders, editors, and innovators across the Asia-Pacific.

The event comes as the country also prepares to host the 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit.