Assalamu’alaykum warahkmatullahi ta’ala wa barakatuhu!
I would like to extend my sincerest congratulations to the Coalition of Moro Youth Movement, Inc., (CMYM) for the success of the Rooted in Trust project, and their partners, Internews, USAID, and the Office of Member of Parliament Marjanie M. Mimbantas.
As we battle this on-going pandemic, we have come to realize the importance of cleanliness and combatting viruses. Like how we ensure our health by practicing good hygiene and wash our hands to prevent the further spread of the virus, this project and all those involved are commendable for preventing the spread of fake news.
The government and media work hand-in-hand. For the government to do its job well, the government and media need to work in cooperation. The media raises awareness on issues, and provides the checks and balances needed to ensure a system accountable to the people.
There can be no governance without trust, and for the people to trust the government, transparency is needed. Through initiatives such as these, we make sure that we strengthen the relationship between the government and the public that it serves, through the bridge of communication. I hope we continue to be great partners in this endeavor.
Information saves lives, especially in a dangerous situation such as this pandemic we find ourselves in. The opposite is true. Misinformation or fake news can endanger lives. Imagine how many people could ingest something harmful to themselves because they believe that it could cure the virus? Most times people would not know they are sharing false information or fake news. They only want to help.
The Rooted in Trust project seems like a simple thing, but its impact is that it can save lives by making sure it is the correct and accurate information that reaches the public. Through this project we see the power of the media, the power of community efforts, and of course, the power of the youth to effect change in their homes and then their communities.
Antibodies work by fighting viruses so that the body can remain healthy. Our youth volunteers fight false information which would threaten truth and harm people, especially the vulnerable sectors.
Our Office has always believed and continue to believe in the awesome power of the youth. I am proud to say that our Office is full of youth staffers. They are effecting change directly at the Bangsamoro Parliament and through the representation of their sectors. All around us, it is the youth who are full of energy and dynamism. They look at their surroundings and ask, “What can I contribute?”, “What can I do to make the world better?”. Even in this time of pandemic, they are leveraging their spirit of volunteerism. This project is one prime example of that. Hold on to that spirit of volunteerism that pushes you to serve others, and through service of others, serving Allah (SWT).
I would like you to know that Our Office will always be an ally of the youth, and commits itself to providing support in whatever which way it can.
Once again, I extend my warmest congratulations to you all!
