GMA Integrated News’ award-winning podcast Howie Severino Presents, hosted by veteran journalist Howie Severino, makes a powerful return with a new three-part special series titled “Online Invasion: The Secret Battle for Hearts, Minds, and Headlines.”
The special series examines how foreign powers manipulate public opinion through Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI), an emerging field of research that tracks how state-sponsored disinformation crosses borders and shapes public beliefs.
A timely and urgent response to the global threat of organized disinformation, Online Invasion features in-depth conversations with leading experts who unpack the complex tactics used in information warfare and their impact on democratic societies.
The first episode, released on October 27, traces the recent history of FIMI and features insights from Dr. Rachel Khan of the University of the Philippines Journalism Department and the fact-checking coalition Tsek.ph. The next two episodes, premiering on November 3 and November 10, take a deeper look at how foreign disinformation networks have penetrated the Philippines and provide listeners with practical advice on how to recognize and resist manipulation.
“Our main goal is to help audiences think critically about the information they consume,” Severino said. “Podcast listeners are often already well-informed, and we hope they can help their families, their parents, titos, and titas do the same. In short: think before you click.”
Oliver Victor B. Amoroso, Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy, reaffirmed the network’s commitment to responsible journalism and media literacy. “In an era where information can be weaponized, GMA Integrated News remains steadfast in its mission to combat disinformation through the Howie Severino Presents special series,” Amoroso said. “Our dedication to media literacy and public trust is not just a responsibility but a cornerstone of our mission to deliver credible and responsible journalism.”
Produced by the GMA Integrated News Digital Strategy and Innovation Lab (DigiLab), Online Invasion underscores GMA’s continued innovation in delivering insightful, research-based journalism across multiple platforms.
Don’t miss Episode 2 of “Online Invasion: The Secret Battle for Hearts, Minds, and Headlines” on November 3, and Episode 3 on November 10, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and GMA Integrated News’ official social media platforms.
