THE SUBTLE ART OF PREPARING FOR A POLITICAL DEBATE  Did you watch the presidential debate at the last 2022 elections?  It’s very interesting to hear the candidates exchange their views about plans and platforms. Such debates help voters to make data-driven choices, as data-driven campaigning enables parties to evaluate their actions, platforms, and gather feedback that previously thought impossible to have a formal discussion over a particular topic and a place to learn about a candidate’s personality. But have you ever wondered how each candidate prepared themselves for a political debate?  Well, we have a list that might interest you, here are the steps to prepare for a Political Debate: Prepare thoroughly!  – Devote sufficient time to studying. Study your agenda, study your local papers, and most of all, study your opponents. Also,  think of how you will respond and how you will say it will help you during the debate. Engage in mock debates and agree on a general strategy, main points to discuss, rhetorical responses, soundbites, and surprises (you never know!). Spend some time thinking alone and rest properly beforehand. Practice makes perfect  – Even if you are an experienced debater, you still need to practice! It is also a good practice to “stand in” for your opponents; basing their past performances and portrayal of an opposing candidate can prepare you for what’s coming. With that being said, don’t focus too much on making sure you practice any possible question and not enough time on the questions that are central and what is most likely to be asked. Always consult your debate advisor. Debate your opponent—not the moderator or the rules  – Adhere to the formats, respect the timer when your time is over. For a lot of undecided voters, debates are one of their options to assess a candidate’s character rather than looking at their positions, so be straightforward and direct. Answer candidly and respond civilly. Taking that into account, take care in criticizing the other side. Don’t be overly aggressive; keep a level head all the time. If you ever make a mistake, be sure to admit it quickly.  Enjoy yourself and the debate!  – There will be a moment during the debate when you want to make a point, but you won’t be sure if it will come out right (in the context you want or if the facts are correct). If you’re in doubt, don’t. The voters will learn about the debate from what they hear in the news or read in the papers, as public perceptions will develop after the debate. So make sure your campaign puts as much effort into winning the debate and what to do after the debate with a focused strategy.  It isn’t just enough that you take a stand and engage in the discourse, thus the result of the debate may be able to help them to victory or can affect the campaign.  By: Janha Tolentino References: www.politico.com www.rappler.com policyreview.info

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Can Misinformation Swing the Next Election? As we head towards the 2025  elections, one question looms large: Can we trust what we see online? The recent incident involving Las Pinas  Rep. Camille Villar where a manipulated post falsely linked her to gymnast Carlos Yulo’s olympic success, distorting the truth and misleading the public.   3 Ways Misinformation Undermine Democracy  Distorting Truths: How easy it is to believe a lie?  A single manipulated post can mislead thousands, if not millions. What happens when these lies target election candidates? Weaponizing Social Media Could the same platforms that connect us also be used to sway elections and shift public opinion? Critical Thinking: Your Defense Against Deception Are you ready to question what you see online? Rep. Villar’s warning about the false post urges us to prioritize facts over sensationalism, especially when voting. As election day approaches, the stakes get higher. This incident is a wake-up call for both voters and candidates. Combating misinformation requires us to be VIGILANT, INFORMED, and committed to TRUTH over LIES. Source link:  metromanila.politiko.com.ph By: Althea Nuestro

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Is AI set to transform Philippine politics? As the Philippines gears up for its next elections, artificial intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionize political strategies. This technological shift isn’t just about efficiency; it’s fundamentally changing how political power is exercised and how voters are engaged. Rising Digital Repression Governments are increasingly using digital tools for surveillance and control. AI and mass surveillance technologies are becoming key instruments for monitoring and suppressing dissent, posing a serious threat to democratic freedoms. AI in Philippine Campaigns With the 2024 elections approaching, AI is reshaping campaign strategies. AI allows candidates to craft highly personalized messages and conduct virtual rallies, expanding their reach and impact. However, this also means campaigns must be wary of AI-driven misinformation and voter manipulation. Navigating the Challenges As AI transforms campaigning, there are challenges related to misinformation and digital ethics. Addressing these concerns requires improving public awareness of AI’s risks, adopting clear AI regulations, and learning from global practices. Moving Forward with AI For most of the country, embracing AI responsibly is important. By balancing technological innovation with ethical considerations, the country can enhance electoral engagement while safeguarding democratic processes.   How will AI impact the future of elections? Stay alert and informed as the digital age reshapes the election landscape.   By: Althea Nuestro & Pauline Anacay Source links INFO SOURCE: carnegieendowment.org usip.org dbresearch.com NEWS SOURCE: digiconasia.net  

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