CEBU CITY, Philippines — A heritage forum in Cebu has highlighted the growing threat of misinformation, fabricated historical narratives and false claims on social media, urging the public to verify sources before accepting or sharing information as fact.

The forum, titled “FAKE! Debunking Tales and the Challenge of Social Media,” was held on September 5, 2026, at a hotel in Cebu City. It brought together Communication students and other participants to discuss how misinformation can shape public understanding of history.

Historian examines viral historical claims

The discussion was led by archaeologist and historian Dr. Jobers Reynes Bersales, who examined viral claims and fabricated narratives found in books and social media.

Bersales emphasized the importance of archaeology, thorough research and concrete evidence in establishing and explaining Cebu's history.

Participants were also introduced to examples of fabricated historical narratives and the need to examine the source of information before accepting it as true.

Social media fuels spread of false information

The forum focused on the challenge posed by social media, where information can spread rapidly with only a single click.

False or unsupported historical claims can gain traction before they are properly checked, potentially influencing how people understand Cebu's past.

Participants were therefore encouraged to independently verify sources and scrutinize historical claims that lack sufficient evidence.

Heritage helps preserve Cebu's history

The discussion also highlighted the importance of heritage sites, old structures, culture and traditional accounts in developing a more accurate understanding of Cebu's history.

Preserving heritage, organizers noted, also requires protecting the factual records and evidence that explain the significance of these cultural resources.

Forum promotes media literacy

The free hybrid forum was hosted by Palm Grass The Cebu Heritage Hotel in partnership with the Tres de Abril Foundation Inc. and the Diyandi Heritage Center.

The event underscored the responsibility of social media users to check and verify information before believing or sharing it.

In an age when false stories can spread in seconds, the forum delivered a simple message: Cebu's history should be built on evidence, not viral claims—and preserving the truth is part of preserving heritage itself.

WWC ONE MEDIA J.M.D