Organization: Rappler
Applicant: Maria Ressa and Gemma B. Mendoza
Assessor: Jose Mari Hall Lanuza
Background
This is the fifth straight year that Rappler has asked to be assessed as an IFCN signatory. Rappler has spearheaded one of the two main fact-checking coalitions in the Philippines. Rappler is also one of currently only two IFCN signatories from the country.
Assessment Conclusion
Rappler is compliant with all criteria set by the IFCN, and has even gone above and beyond the minimum necessary requirements for compliance. Rappler is transparent with its methodologies, code of ethics, editorial and correctional procedures, and organizational structure and linkages.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza assesses application as Compliant
A short summary in native publishing language
Pasado ang Rappler sa lahat ng pamantayang nailatag ng IFCN para sa etikal na pagsasagawa ng mga fact check. Pagpupugay, Rappler.
Section 1: Eligibility to be a signatory
To be eligible to be a signatory, applicants must meet these six criteria
- 1.1 The applicant is a legally registered organization, or a distinct team or unit within a legally registered organization, and details of this are easily found on its website.
- 1.2 The team, unit or organization is set up exclusively for the purpose of fact-checking.
- 1.3 The applicant has published an average of at least one fact check a week over the course of the six months prior to the date of application. For applicants from countries with at least 5 or more verified signatories need to have at least a fact check a week over the twelve months of publishing track. Consult to factchecknet@poynter.org for confirmation.
- 1.4 On average, at least 75% of the applicant’s fact checks focus on claims related to issues that, in the view of the IFCN, relate to or could have an impact on the welfare or well-being of individuals, the general public or society.
- 1.5 The applicant’s editorial output is not, in the view of the IFCN, controlled by the state, a political party or politician.
- 1.6 If the organization receives funding from local or foreign state or political sources, it provides a statement on its site setting out to the satisfaction of the IFCN, how it ensures its funders do not influence the findings of its reports.
Criteria 1.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please explain where on your website you set out information about your organization’s legal status and how this complies with criteria. Attach a link to the relevant page of your website.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
Rappler IQ is a subsection within Newsbreak, the investigative & research arm of Rappler.
It is maintained primarily by a research unit which independently gathers public-interest imbued data and documents from primary sources for the purpose of storytelling as well as internal and external fact-checking and verification. Given the rise of misinformation and disinformation online, the team also actively monitors content that needs fact-checking, and produces fact-check explainer stories. From time to time, reporters also write fact checks about claims made by public officials or influential personalities representing institutions they cover.
Rappler is an independent news organization based in the Philippines which runs www.rappler.com. This is the link to Rappler’s organizational profile:
Attached is Rappler’s certificate of incorporation with the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xXAHYzCsPegz_h7Cy7U5_rPGd5_GXtOP/view?usp=sharing
Rappler Inc. was registered with the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on July 25, 2011. However, on January 11, 2018, the SEC issued an order revoking Rappler’s registration for allegedly violating foreign ownership ban on media.
Rappler asked the Court of Appeals to annul the order. On July 26, 2018, while the Court of Appeals dismissed Rappler’s petition annulling the SEC order, it ruled that the commission should review its decision given the evidence presented by Rappler.
In late June 2022, a few days before the Marcos administration took over, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) affirmed its January 2018 decision revoking Rappler’s license to operate. Rappler’s lawyers subsequently filed another appeal with the Court of Appeals and this remains pending to date.
More details here:
https://www.rappler.com/nation/francis-lim-says-sec-order-can-be-appealed-prepared-all-scenarios/
This case, as well as other allegations against Rappler, are tackled here:
https://www.rappler.com/about-rappler/about-us/214420-frequently-asked-questions-fact-check-project
The list of cases filed against Maria Ressa and staff can are discussed here:
https://www.rappler.com/nation/223968-list-cases-filed-against-maria-ressa-rappler-reporters/
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler is a legal organization operating in the Philippines. Currently, Rappler's SEC registration is revoked (see notice here: https://www.sec.gov.ph/issuance/rappler-holdings-corporation/#gsc.tab=0) but is under appeal.
It is also worth noting that the revocation of their SEC registration is strongly politically motivated and is generally seen as the result of executive aggrandizement under the Duterte regime.
done_all 1.1 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 1.2
Proof you meet criteria
Please answer the following questions – (see notes in Guidelines for Application on how to answer)
1. When and why was your fact-checking operation started?
2. How many people work or volunteer in the organization and what are their roles?
3. What different activities does your organization carry out?
4. What are the goals of your fact-checking operation over the coming year?
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler’s fact-check initiative is rooted in the multilevel process of verification we employ as investigative journalists to ensure that our reports are accurate.
Rappler’s brand of fact-checking sparked public conversations and voter discourse during the May 2016 national elections, when claims made by presidential and vice presidential candidates during live debates were subjected to live verification of facts and context by Rappler’s editors, reporters, and researchers.
We do the same to check claims during the President’s annual State of the Nation Address.
In 2016, Rappler was among the first Philippine news groups to join First Draft, a global network that includes the key tech platforms (Google, Facebook, Twitter), major newsgroups, and academic institutions fighting fake news and disinformation online.
In October 2017, Rappler became a verified signatory to the fact checkers' code of ethics of the International Fact-Checkers Network at Poynter.
As one of the two IFCN verified signatories in the Philippines, we were chosen by Facebook as one of its partners for fact-checking in the Philippines.
Fact-checking by Rappler covers diverse topics such as politics, culture, and international relations. It does not only point out errors of fact or empirical information but also explains the context of the contested items in the news.
Our fact checks and fast facts content appear prominently in three sections:
“Fact Check” - https://www.rappler.com/section/newsbreak/fact-check
“Rappler IQ” - https://www.rappler.com/section/newsbreak/iq; and
“Newsbreak” - https://www.rappler.com/section/newsbreak
When appropriate, they may also be published in appropriate sections within the Rappler website (www.rappler.com).
Rappler's work is aided by its database and archives initially built by Newsbreak, a magazine that published award-winning investigative pieces and long form for a decade until it merged with Rappler in 2012, and MovePH, which is the citizen journalism arm of Rappler.
How Rappler’s fact-checking initiative began can also be found here: https://www.rappler.com/nation/214420-frequently-asked-questions-fact-check-project/
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler's brand of investigative journalism is clearly demonstrative of their fact-checking orientation and quality. Their organization structure is also easily found on their website, showing the various areas and topics they cover. Moreover, Rappler has three sub-sections that publish their factchecks: Fact Check, Rappler IQ, and Newsbreak. Sustaining these three sub-sections is a sizable and dedicated roster of journalists, showing Rappler's commitment to quality factchecking content.
done_all 1.2 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 1.3
Proof you meet criteria
- The applicant has published an average of at least one fact check a week over the course of the six months prior to the date of application.
- For applicants from countries with at least 5 or more verified signatories need to have at least a fact check a week over the twelve months of publishing track.
- Consult to factchecknet@poynter.org for confirmation.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
We published almost 600 fact-checks from January to November 2022. A list of all our fact-checks, categorized into topics, is attached.
All of Rappler’s fact checks may be accessed through this url:
https://www.rappler.com/section/newsbreak/fact-check/
Our published FAQ’s and fact check methodology explains the scope of our fact-checking effort as well as our guide in deciding what content to fact-check. It may be accessed here:
https://www.rappler.com/nation/214420-frequently-asked-questions-fact-check-project/
https://www.rappler.com/about-rappler/about-us/174766-fact-check-methodology
On our fact-check landing page, each fact-check article is also tagged according to topic (e.g. COVID-19 fact checks, fact checks on public officials, fact checks about media, fake quotes, death hoaxes, etc.)
The link here lists fact checks for 2022
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1QPw-_NeFSyIBnMcOzir3-cqwfCGSi70YrfAdGohFKac/edit#gid=0
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Across 48 weeks (Jan-Nov 2022) Rappler produced a total of 578 factchecks, with an average of more than 12 factchecks/week or more than 52 factchecks per month. The lowest number of factchecks in a month was 38 (November) while the highest was 68 (March, May). This is well beyond the requirement for countries with 5 or more verified signatories, much less for countries with less like the Philippines. Rappler clearly meets the criteria for this component.
done_all 1.3 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 1.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will assess compliance through a review of the fact checks published over the previous three months. No additional information required.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
From September to November Rappler published 44, 41, and 38 fact-checks, respectively. A majority of these fact-checks concerned issues of public governance, domestic and international politics, economic affairs, human rights, and current events. There were also a few articles debunking scams and even disinformation operations against progressive groups and government critics. These articles educate audiences and combat attempts at historical revisionism, political whitewashing, and contrived social panics.
done_all 1.4 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 1.5
Proof you meet criteria
Please explain any commercial, financial and/or institutional relationship your organization has to the state, politicians or political parties in the country or countries you cover. Also explain funding or support received from foreign as well as local state or political actors over the previous financial year.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
As an independent news organization, Rappler does not have any commercial, financial and/or institutional relationship with the state, politicians or political parties. We have not received funding from the state or political parties in the Philippines or otherwise in the previous financial year.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler declared that it is an independent organization with no ties to the state or any politicians or political parties.
done_all 1.5 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 1.6
Proof you meet criteria
If you confirmed the organization receives funding from local or foreign state or political sources, provide a link to where on your website you set out how you ensure the editorial independence of your work.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler declared that it is an independent organization with no ties to the state or any politicians or political parties.
done_all 1.6 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Section 2: A commitment to Non-partisanship and Fairness
To be compliant on nonpartisanship and fairness, applicants must meet these five criteria
- 2.1 The applicant fact-checks using the same high standards of evidence and judgement for equivalent claims regardless of who made the claim.
- 2.2 The applicant does not unduly concentrate its fact-checking on any one side, considers the reach and importance of claims it selects to check and publishes a short statement on its website to set out how it selects claims to check.
- 2.3 The applicant discloses in its fact checks relevant interests of the sources it quotes where the reader might reasonably conclude those interests could influence the accuracy of the evidence provided. It also discloses in its fact checks any commercial or other such relationships it has that a member of the public might reasonably conclude could influence the findings of the fact check.
- 2.4 The applicant is not as an organization affiliated with nor declares or shows support for any party, any politician or political candidate, nor does it advocate for or against any policy positions on any issues save for transparency and accuracy in public debate.
- 2.5 The applicant sets out its policy on non-partisanship for staff on its site. Save for the issues of accuracy and transparency, the applicant’s staff do not get involved in advocacy or publicise their views on policy issues the organization might fact check in such a way as might lead a reasonable member of the public to see the organization’s work as biased.
Criteria 2.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please share links to 10 fact checks published over the past year that you believe demonstrate your non-partisanship.
Please briefly explain how the fact checks selected show that (I) you use the same high standards of evidence for equivalent claims, (II) follow the same essential process for every fact check and (III) let the evidence dictate your conclusions.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
Below are examples of links that demonstrate Rappler’s non-partisanship
There was no walkout during Marcos’ speech at the UN General Assembly
Bilang pangulo, hindi huhulihin si Marcos sa Amerika dahil sa diplomatic immunity
Robredo did not spend more than Comelec’s allowed budget during campaign period
FALSE: UniTeam giving P10,000 ‘ayuda’ to those who voted for their candidates
HINDI TOTOO: Puwersahang pinasok ng ‘Kakampinks’ ang Comelec
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/comelec-forced-entry-kakampinks/
HINDI TOTOO: Mas marami ang nabilang na boto kaysa sa botante noong eleksiyon
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/more-votes-counted-than-number-voters-elections-2022/
Leni Robredo did not say in an interview no cheating happened in May 2022 polls
FALSE: Marcos Jr. got biggest electoral mandate in Philippine history
HINDI TOTOO: Maaaring palitan ang boto sa vote-counting machine gamit ang USB at ‘codes’
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/usb-code-change-results-vote-counting-machine/
HINDI TOTOO: Video ng pagpapahayag ni Duterte ng suporta para kay Robredo
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/video-rodrigo-duterte-expresses-support-leni-robredo/
Ahead of the 2022 presidential elections, quite a number of studies, including that of Tsek.PH, an academe-based fact-checking initiative, came to the conclusion that now president Ferdinand Marcos benefited the most from online disinformation while his rival, former Vice-President Leni Robredo was the biggest disinformation victim.
Data on fact checks published by Rappler also support this conclusion. However, as illustrated by the examples of fact checks given above–which were a mix of fact checks that favor either political camp–Rappler adopted the same workflow that we follow in all our fact-checks.
For all fact check pieces published by Rappler, a team of researchers does the initial verification process. They check for verifiable details including names, places, dates, numbers, and others. Reporters get looped into the verification process whenever content topics involve their respective beats or areas of expertise. After the facts have been established, the appropriate rating is discussed internally with editors on duty. Within fact-check pieces, we provide readers with as much information as possible to explain how we arrived at a particular conclusion or rating. For content from hoax sites, we also provide additional information on previous content published by such sites which have previously been established as false.
We also get contributions from (1) trained volunteers who graduated from our fact-check mentorship program; (2) participants of our fellowship program; (3) interns. Fact-checks written by these contributors are reviewed by researchers and senior editors before they are published. Contributors are also required to adhere to the Code of Ethics and standards set forth by Rappler and the IFCN.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
The 10 articles submitted by Rappler demonstrate non-partisanship in their factchecking, as determined by their choice of subjects or topics, objects or individuals, and the variety of multimedia claim formats factchecked. The factcheck structure is also clear in that it shows both the false claim and the correct claim, as well as data that disprove/debunk the false claim.
done_all 2.1 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 2.2
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to a place on your website where you explain how you select claims to check, explaining how you ensure you do not unduly concentrate your fact-checking on any one side, and how you consider the reach and importance of the claims you select to check.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
Our published fact check methodology explains the scope of our fact-checking effort as well as the workflow in deciding what to prioritize. It may be accessed here:
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler's factcheck methodology is publicly available, clearly transparent and non-partisan, and continuously assessed at different levels to ensure the highest quality of journalistic integrity.
done_all 2.2 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 2.3
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will assess compliance through a review of the fact checks published over the previous year. No additional information required.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
I sampled 11 fact-checking articles published from January to November 2022. I randomly selected one factcheck published between the 16th and the 20th day of each month. These articles are linked below.
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/covid-19-vaccine-eliminates-god-particle-body/
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/text-blast-joma-sison-support-for-leni-robredo/
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/pfizer-does-not-produce-comirnaty-vaccine/ (the link provided for this entry in Rappler's Google Sheet wrongly led to a June 27 factcheck about the capture of a large crocodile in Antipolo; I reviewed the actual factcheck about Pfizer).
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/the-trilateral-commission-did-not-use-dovie-beams-to-blackmail-former-president-marcos/#Echobox=1663376552-2 (the link provided for this entry in Rappler's Google Sheet wrongly led to a Sept. 20 factcheck about DSWD's e-service; I reviewed the actual factcheck about Marcos and Dovie Beams).
Rappler is transparent about the affiliations and interests of its sources. Where applicable, factchecks provide links to the sources' profiles or actions, which are followed by links to other articles that contextualize the sources and the claims. The factchecks are impartial and thoroughly researched, and readers find it easy to backtrack the claims and the corrections through data and articles provided in the factcheck itself.
done_all 2.3 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 2.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will assess compliance through a review of the fact checks published over the previous year. No additional information required.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Through the factcheck's slant, content, and chosen subjects, Rappler shows nonpartisanship in its corrections and provides ample data to back up any claims they make. The language used is generally sober and not sensationalist - generally argumentative within reason.
done_all 2.4 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 2.5
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to a place on your website where you publish a statement setting out your policy on non-partisanship for staff and how it ensures the organization meets this criteria.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
Rappler’s policy on non-partisanship and conflict of interest can be found in our fact-check project’s FAQ page: https://rappler.com/about/frequently-asked-questions-fact-check-project
Rappler has a strict policy on conflict of interest. This is not limited to political parties or advocacy organizations. In general, Rappler staff are required to disclose and avoid potential conflicts of interest situations, where loyalty to a person, group or institution could affect their ability to report about them truthfully and independently.
Rappler has a strict policy as well to reject gifts or privileges that could influence the independence of its newsgathering efforts or create public perception of compromised independence.
Staff are also advised to avoid taking part in activities or being part of organizations which could limit or compromise their independence and hurt their integrity.
These principles are enshrined in the company’s Code of Ethics, which was initiated in 2012 and is updated from time to time as the need arises. The Code of Ethics is annexed to the Code of Conduct which every Rappler employee and contributor signs upon joining the organization. It serves as the backbone of a daily operations manual that we maintain and update constantly as the need arises.
Through Move.PH, its civic engagement unit, Rappler works with citizen journalists in communities all over the country. In our workshops, we ask potential volunteers to adopt this code. These Code of Ethics are also signed by interns, trained volunteers, and fellows who contribute to the fact checks.
Link to the Code of Ethics here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rvPXIZfKjzhxkAVuBBDIo6YdCS1Dac4R/view?usp=sharing
The importance of ethical guidelines are further stressed in our statement on editorial guidelines, corrections, and moderation
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler's policy on non-partisanship and conflict of interest is accessible in their website, and the policy's essence is reflected in how the factchecks are conducted. As written in their internal code of ethics, Rappler adheres to the principles of accuracy and truthfulness, fairness and balance, editorial independence, and minimizing harm. These principles ensure non-partisan journalism. Moreover, their methodology for both data-gathering and verifying ensure these principles are met across different levels.
done_all 2.5 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Section 3: A commitment to Standards and Transparency of Sources
To be compliant on sources, applicants must meet these four criteria
- 3.1 The applicant identifies the source of all significant evidence used in their fact checks, providing relevant links where the source is available online, in such a way that users can replicate their work if they wish. In cases where identifying the source would compromise the source’s personal security, the applicant provides as much detail as compatible with the source’s safety.
- 3.2 The applicant uses the best available primary, not secondary, sources of evidence wherever suitable primary sources are available. Where suitable primary sources are not available, the applicant explains the use of a secondary source.
- 3.3 The applicant checks all key elements of claims against more than one named source of evidence save where the one source is the only source relevant on the topic.
- 3.4 The applicant identifies in its fact checks the relevant interests of the sources it uses where the reader might reasonably conclude those interests could influence the accuracy of the evidence provided.
Criteria 3.1
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
I randomly selected one factcheck published each month from January to November 2022. I chose articles published every 10th of the month, or whatever is published next to it if no article was published on the 10th. These are linked below.
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/luzon-placed-under-alert-level-5-total-hard-lockdown-january-10-2022/
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/leni-robredo-said-will-bring-back-aquino-government/
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/cia-communists-allied-defeat-ferdinand-marcos-jr/
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/sara-duterte-will-scrap-k-to-12-program/
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/video-does-not-show-china-attacking-taiwan/
In these articles, all claims are provided with evidence and even additional articles that provide further context. Where applicable, figures, documents, statements, are provided with hyperlinks that provide the reader with evidence. Notably, Rappler does not provide the link for the actual post containing disinformation to prevent providing it with more traffic. Instead, Rappler provides a screenshot of the post so the reader can see the claim beside the factcheck. Public sources are used in the factcheck. There are no threats to safety, security, or privacy.
done_all 3.1 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 3.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Where applicable, Rappler uses primary data as evidence for their debunking efforts. For instance, posts decontextualizing photos are countered with reverse image searching conducted by the authors themselves. The tools are the methods are clearly identified for replicability. For the most part, the factchecks rely on secondary data to effectively debunk false claims. While the use of secondary data are not explained, they are appropriate and reliable enough for the claims being factchecked. Many of these secondary sources are articles that report on or quote official statements.
done_all 3.2 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 3.3
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler uses more than one source for its factchecks. Each factcheck article contains multiple hyperlinks justifying different claims that debunk false content.
done_all 3.3 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 3.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Where applicable, Rappler identifies the profile and disposition of their sources for data that prove to debunk false claims. These contextualize the factcheck and allow the reader to understand the bigger picture comprehensively and fairly.
done_all 3.4 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Section 4: A commitment to Transparency of Funding & Organization
To be compliant on funding and organization, applicants must meet these five criteria
- 4.1 Applicants that are independent organizations have a page on their website detailing each source of funding accounting for 5% or more of total revenue for its previous financial year. This page also sets out the legal form in which the organization is registered (e.g. as a non-profit, as a company etc).
- 4.2 Applicants that are the fact-checking section or unit of a media house or other parent organization make a statement on ownership.
- 4.3 A statement on the applicant’s website sets out the applicant’s organizational structure and makes clear how and by whom editorial control is exercised.
- 4.4 A page on the applicant’s website details the professional biography of all those who, according to the organizational structure and play a significant part in its editorial output.
- 4.5 The applicant provides easy means on its website and/or via social media for users to communicate with the editorial team.
Criteria 4.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please confirm whether you are an ‘independent organization’
or ‘the fact-checking section or unit of a media house or other parent organization’ and share proof of this organizational status.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
Rappler is an independent news organization based in the Philippines which runs www.rappler.com.
This is the link to Rappler’s certificate of incorporation with the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xXAHYzCsPegz_h7Cy7U5_rPGd5_GXtOP/view?usp=sharing
Rappler IQ is a project of Newsbreak, the investigative & research arm of Rappler.
It is maintained primarily by a research unit which independently gathers public-interest imbued data and documents from primary sources for the purpose of storytelling as well as internal and external fact-checking and verification. Given the rise of misinformation and disinformation online, the team actively monitors content that needs fact-checking, and produces fact-check explainer stories.
This is the link to Newsbreak: https://rappler.com/section/newsbreak/
This is the link to Rappler IQ: https://rappler.com/section/newsbreak/iq
This is the link to our fact-check landing page: https://rappler.com/section/newsbreak/fact-check
Our article on frequently asked questions on Rappler’s fact check project lists Rappler’s ownership structure, including actual contributions of investors, the overall revenue of Rappler for 2019, as well as the institutions that fund the fact check project. The article can be viewed through this link: https://www.rappler.com/nation/214420-frequently-asked-questions-fact-check-project/
The page also contains the list of members of Rappler’s fact-check team and links to their individual biographies.
The page below, on the other hand, links to the profile pages of members of the entire Rappler team and their individual biographies
https://www.rappler.com/about/21743-rappler-team/
This page links to Rappler’s contact information. It is accessible through the website’s footer which is visible in all pages.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler is transparent about its independence and its funding sources. These can all be found on their website, although the FAQ articles discussing these can be updated and even housed in its own tab on the site.
done_all 4.1 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 4.2
Proof you meet criteria
If your organization is an “independent organization”, please share a link to the page on your website where you detail your funding and indicate the legal form in which the organization is registered (e.g. as a non-profit, as a company etc).
If your organization is “the fact-checking section or unit of a media house or other parent organization”, please share a link to the statement on your website about your ownership.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
Our article on frequently asked questions on Rappler’s fact check project lists Rappler’s ownership structure, including actual contributions of investors, the overall revenue of Rappler for 2019, as well as the institutions that fund the fact check project. The article can be viewed through this link: https://rappler.com/about/frequently-asked-questions-fact-check-project
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler's statements about its research and investigative unit as well as its factchecking arm can be found on Rappler's main website. Rappler has also shared their previous registration with the Philippine SEC, while its current status is still pending. Provided in the first section is SEC's statement revoking Rappler's registration, as well as Rappler's appeal to this.
done_all 4.2 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 4.3
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to where on your website you set out your organizational structure, making clear how and by whom editorial control is exercised.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
This page links to the profile pages of members of the Rappler team and their individual biographies
https://rappler.com/about/rappler-team
This page contains the list of members of Rappler’s fact-check team and links to their individual biographies:
https://www.rappler.com/about-rappler/about-us/214420-frequently-asked-questions-fact-check-project
Our fact-check methodology page explains the process our fact-checking and editorial team undergoes before publishing a fact-check:
https://www.rappler.com/about/fact-check-methodology
We have also published this set of standards and guidelines on corrections, verification, and comment moderation which guides the entire team, not just the fact check team.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler is transparent about their organizational structure. This information is readily available on their website, and clearly shows organizational hierarchy, chain of command and responsibility, and editorial process.
done_all 4.3 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 4.4
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to where on your website you set out the professional biographies of those who play a significant part in your organization’s editorial output.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
This page links to the profile pages of members of the Rappler team and their individual biographies https://rappler.com/about/rappler-team
This page contains the list of members of Rappler’s fact-check team and links to their individual biographies: https://www.rappler.com/about-rappler/about-us/214420-frequently-asked-questions-fact-check-project
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler has a dedicated page publishing the bio notes of most of its staff. Only 28 staff members do not have their own profile pages, and from this only 3 belong to the research and reporting roster. The rest are part of staff divisions for backend processes (e.g. designers, advertising and partnerships, etc.). The profiles of the board of directors are also readily available. The organizational chart also clearly depicts the editorial hierarchy and chain of responsibility.
done_all 4.4 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 4.5
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to where on your website you encourage users to communicate with your editorial team.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
Below each published article, Rappler places this footnote: “Kung may nakikita kang kahina-hinalang Facebook pages, groups, accounts, websites, artikulo, o mga larawan sa iyong network, i-send ang mga ito sa factcheck@rappler.com. Maaari ring magsumite ng mga sabi-sabi sa #FactsFirstPH tipline. Ipadala lang ang mga ito bilang message sa Facebook ng Rappler, bilang direct message sa Twitter ng Newsbreak, o bilang message sa aming Viber fact check chatbot. Sa bawat fact check, labanan natin ang pagkalat ng mali o mapanlinlang na impormasyon.
The same contact information is on the landing page header. https://www.rappler.com/section/newsbreak/fact-check/
This page is Rappler’s contact information for each department: https://www.rappler.com/nation/1557-contact-us/
The correction page also has the email address that receives feedback regarding corrections
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/41751-corrections/
The Facebook page of Newsbreak, Rappler’s investigative and research arm, which manages the fact check project has an automated chat service where people can submit content for fact checking. A sample call out is this post: https://www.facebook.com/newsbreak.ph/photos/10158724478773099
In addition, Rappler also regularly publishes call-outs for submissions of dubious content for fact-checking. The following are sample call-outs: https://www.facebook.com/100064562324642/posts/pfbid0xaHmjq1geS9s2oSgknHGEnDa58MqDnkzHNcvs1y5Fgp4wTkzFCMYxGsRPW9YBgL7l/?mibextid=cr9u03
https://twitter.com/rapplerdotcom/status/1601036440770592770
The page below explains how people can submit claims to fact check to the #FactsFirstPH tiplines
https://www.rappler.com/moveph/ways-report-dubious-claims-facts-first-philippines-initiative/
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler encourages citizen correction by providing contact details at the end of articles and at the contacts page. Rappler also factchecks content submitted by their readers to their social media accounts.
done_all 4.5 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Section 5: A commitment to Standards and Transparency of Methodology
To be compliant on methodology, applicants must meet these six criteria
- 5.1 The applicant publishes on its website a statement about the methodology it uses to select, research, write and publish its fact checks.
- 5.2 The applicant selects claims to check based primarily on the reach and importance of the claims, and where possible explains the reason for choosing the claim to check.
- 5.3 The applicant sets out in its fact checks relevant evidence that appears to support the claim as well as relevant evidence that appears to undermine it.
- 5.4 The applicant in its fact checks assesses the merits of the evidence found using the same high standards applied to evidence on equivalent claims, regardless of who made the claim.
- 5.5 The applicant seeks where possible to contact those who made the claim to seek supporting evidence, noting that (I) this is often not possible with online claims, (II) if the person who makes the claim fails to reply in a timely way this should not impede the fact check, (III) if a speaker adds caveats to the claim, the fact-checker should be free to continue with checking the original claim, (IV) fact-checkers may not wish to contact the person who made the claim for safety or other legitimate reasons.
- 5.6 The applicant encourages users to send in claims to check, while making it clear what readers can legitimately expect will be fact-checked and what isn’t fact-checkable.
Criteria 5.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please provide a link to the statement on your website that explains the methodology you use to select, research, write and publish your fact checks.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
Fact-checking and verification are ingrained in the news & data gathering and reporting workflow of the entire Rappler newsroom -- not just of the fact check unit.
To ensure that our reports and fact-checks are accurate, we employ internal accountability mechanisms as well as a multilevel process of verification built on the rich experience of our predecessor Newsbreak, an award-winning investigative news organization established in 2001.
To help educate the public on how we fact check, we have an article which details our fact check process and methodology. This is accessible here:
https://www.rappler.com/about-rappler/about-us/174766-fact-check-methodology
The different categories we use for rating claims are listed and explained in this link:
https://www.rappler.com/about-rappler/about-us/214420-frequently-asked-questions-fact-check-project
As a partner in Facebook’s Third Party Fact Checker Program, we have aligned our ratings with ratings prescribed by the program. Facebook’s ratings can be found here:
https://www.facebook.com/help/publisher/182222309230722
We also conduct workshops where we explain this methodology and train volunteers how to fact check.
We have also published this set of standards and guidelines on corrections, verification, and comment moderation which guides the entire team, not just the fact check team.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler's methodology for factchecking and assessing is readily available on their website, and is aligned with third party standards. Moreover, when a more detailed approach to the factcheck is necessary, Rappler even includes descriptions for these in the article itself.
done_all 5.1 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 5.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
I assessed the first article published every month from January to November 2022. These are linked below.
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/maharlika-word-means-peace/
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/pre-programmed-results-polls-may-2022/
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/super-typhoon-domeng-philippine-area-responsibility-may-2022/#:~:text=Hindi%20totoo%20na%20mayroong%20super,typhoon%20sa%20loob%20ng%20PAR. (the link provided for this entry in Rappler's Google Sheet wrongly led to a June 13 factcheck about the illegality of dicyanin dye; I reviewed the actual factcheck about Super Typhoon Domeng).
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/nora-aunor-died-june-2022/
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/duterte-dared-journalist-waldy-carbonell-duel-not-other-way-around/ (the link provided for this entry in Rappler's Google Sheet wrongly led to a September 9 factcheck about CHR; I reviewed the actual factcheck about Duterte).
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/registrations-4ps-not-blogging-site/
Rappler identifies at the start of the articles why these claims need to be factchecked. Rappler cites measures of virality and engagement at the time the articles were written, and where applicable, Rappler also states when some claims have already been spread before.
done_all 5.2 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 5.3
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler's factchecks provide comprehensive evidence for the readers. Consistently linked in the articles are data/evidence that disprove the false claim, that establish the truthful claim, and that support the truthful claim.
done_all 5.3 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 5.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler's methodology and comprehensive research allow for convincing presentations that sort of convincingly settle the disputed aspect in the issue. The evidence and its interpretations are consistently direct and sober, and always come from reliable sources or established historical/statistical/document research that audiences themselves can verify.
done_all 5.4 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 5.5
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler's factcheck format allows for publishing even without contacting the people who made the claim, since the post screenshot is published alongside the correction. No context is missed and the language being factchecked is clearly shown.
done_all 5.5 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 5.6
Proof you meet criteria
Please describe how you encourage users to send in claims to check, while making it clear what readers can legitimately expect will be fact-checked and what isn’t fact-checkable. Include links where appropriate. If you do not allow this, explain why.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
Below each published article, Rappler places this footnote: “Kung may nakikita kang kahina-hinalang Facebook pages, groups, accounts, websites, artikulo, o mga larawan sa iyong network, i-send ang mga ito sa factcheck@rappler.com. Maaari ring magsumite ng mga sabi-sabi sa #FactsFirstPH tipline. Ipadala lang ang mga ito bilang message sa Facebook ng Rappler, bilang direct message sa Twitter ng Newsbreak, o bilang message sa aming Viber fact check chatbot. Sa bawat fact check, labanan natin ang pagkalat ng mali o mapanlinlang na impormasyon.
Readers can submit items to fact check via the email factcheck@rappler.com and by sending chat messages through Facebook messenger to the Facebook page of Newsbreak, our investigative and research unit. Below is the link to Newsbreak’s Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/newsbreak.ph
These instructions are posted on our Fact Check landing page and on our published Fact Check Methodology page:
https://www.rappler.com/about-rappler/about-us/174766-fact-check-methodology
It is also reiterated on the Fact Check section landing page and on each fact check piece to encourage people to submit claims for verification.
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check
Sample fact check article which includes the instructions on how to submit
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/fact-check/philippines-legal-true-name-not-maharlika/
In addition, Rappler has a full-time social media & community engagement team that actively engages and gathers feedback regarding our stories real-time through the comments sections, social media, and through email. Suggestions for fact-check coming from our readers are captured by this team which then turns such requests over to the editorial and research teams for review.
The team regularly publishes call outs for items to fact check via our various social media channels. Aside from generic call outs, the team also publishes call outs based on current events. Below are samples of both generic and specific call outs.
Sample of generic call-out
https://twitter.com/rapplerdotcom/status/1602483508345278466
Sample of specific/thematic call-out
https://www.facebook.com/310621318958658_587827050046034
https://twitter.com/rapplerdotcom/status/1602611828084932614
https://www.instagram.com/p/CmGucC1rZvL/
We also have a Facebook group where volunteers who participated in our workshops help us find dubious content on social media that may require fact-checking. We also post our fact check call outs in this Facebook group.
This is the link to the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/factsfirstph.This group also includes representatives of other news organizations we are partnering with for the local collaborative fact check initiative.
The story below explains how people can submit dubious claims to #FactsFirstPH tiplines
https://www.rappler.com/moveph/ways-report-dubious-claims-facts-first-philippines-initiative/
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler has readily-available statements about its community engagement strategies regarding factcheck requests and submissions. Rappler also actively responds to readers sending in messages, either by carrying out a factcheck or publishing factchecks written by volunteers (after editorial checking).
done_all 5.6 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Section 6: A commitment to an Open & Honest Corrections Policy
To be compliant on corrections policy, applicants must meet these five criteria
- 6.1 The applicant has a corrections or complaints policy that is easily visible and accessible on the organization’s website or frequently referenced in broadcasts.
- 6.2 The policy sets out clear definitions of what it does and does not cover, how major mistakes, especially those requiring revised conclusions of a fact check, are handled, and the fact that some complaints may justify no response. This policy is adhered to scrupulously.
- 6.3 Where credible evidence is provided that the applicant has made a mistake worthy of correction, the applicant makes a correction openly and transparently, seeking as far as possible to ensure that users of the original see the correction and the corrected version.
- 6.4 The applicant, if an existing signatory, should either on its corrections/complaints page or on the page where it declares itself an IFCN signatory inform users that if they believe the signatory is violating the IFCN Code, they may inform the IFCN, with a link to the IFCN site.
- 6.5 If the applicant is the fact-checking unit of a media company, it is a requirement of signatory status that the parent media company has and adheres to an open and honest corrections policy.
Criteria 6.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please provide a link to where you publish on your website your corrections or complaints policy. If you are primarily a broadcaster, please provide evidence you frequently reference your corrections policy in broadcasts.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
In cases where errors are committed, we immediately acknowledge the mistake and issue an erratum directly on the page or platform where the error was published and alert readers and followers on social media of factual errors.
On top of that, we are one of the few newsgroups in the Philippines that maintains an updated Corrections Page, which lists factual errors and systems infractions. The corrections policy applies to all stories published by Rappler and not just to the Fact Check initiative.
Both the policy and the inventory of all key corrections made since 2012 are published on the pages below:
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/41751-corrections/
https://www.rappler.com/topic/rappler-corrections/
The Corrections page also links to a list of monthly corrections pages which list down corrections for that month. Each monthly corrections page then links to the articles where the corrections were made.
To highlight the importance of honest and transparent corrections, the policy is also spelled out in Rappler’s Editorial Standards and Guidelines page, which may be accessed below:
Rappler’s full time community engagement team also scours our comments section and social media channels regularly for feedback on content that require correction.
Correction requests can also be sent via feedback@rappler.com.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler does have a correction policy and issues errata when necessary, as well as guidelines for corrections. They have a bulletin board of corrections available to the public, for purposes of transparency.
done_all 6.1 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 6.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the corrections policy to verify it meets critera. No additional information needed.
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler publishes its corrections per month, having a dedicated page per month listing all the links with corrections and instructions that refer the reader to the editor's notes. These notes show which piece of information was wrongly reported, and whether it has been updated or corrected.
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/corrections-january-2022/
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/corrections-february-2022/
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/corrections-april-2022/
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/corrections-may-2022/
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/corrections-june-2022/
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/corrections-july-2022/
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/corrections-august-2022/
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/corrections-september-2022/
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/corrections-november-2022/
done_all 6.2 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 6.3
Proof you meet criteria
Please provide a short statement about how the policy was adhered to over the previous year (or six months if this is the first application) including evidence of two examples of the responses provided by the applicant to a correction request over the previous year. Where no correction request has been made in the previous year, you must state this in your application, which will be publicly available in the assessment if your application is successful.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
In the past year, Rappler has issued a number of corrections for errors committed in its stories, all in compliance with our EDITORIAL POLICIES AND STANDARDS and MISSION STATEMENT:
https://www.rappler.com/about/standards-guidelines-corrections-fact-check-content-comment-moderation
https://www.rappler.com/about/mission-statement-journalism-communities-technology
All corrections can be found in our corrections pages:
More recent corrections may be accessed here:
https://www.rappler.com/topic/rappler-corrections/
Links to monthly corrections from 2012 to 2020 may be accessed from this page
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/41751-corrections/
Corrections can be found within the text of the corrected story.
Below are the links to the latest monthly corrections pages:
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/corrections-december-2022/
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/corrections-november-2022/
Below are links to some sample corrections:
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler adheres to their policy on corrections. Their articles show what particular information required correcting, and whether it has been corrected or adjusted. Articles with multiple revisions also show what changed per revision and how many revisions there have been.
done_all 6.3 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 6.4
Proof you meet criteria
If you are an existing signatory, please provide a link to show where on your site you inform users that if they believe you are violating the IFCN Code, they may inform the IFCN of this, with a link to the complaints page on the IFCN site.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
Rappler’s participation in the International Fact Checking Network (IFCN) can be found in our FAQs under the section “Our involvement in the International Fact-Checking Network”
https://www.rappler.com/nation/214420-frequently-asked-questions-fact-check-project/
A link to the complaints page on the IFCN website can also be found in that section of the FAQs page.
This is also reiterated on the Fact Check section landing page
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler's IFCN affiliation is clearly listed in this page: https://www.rappler.com/about/214420-frequently-asked-questions-fact-check-project/
This page does list Rappler's contact details should readers find anything that needs correcting. There is also a link to the IFCN complaints page on this page.
done_all 6.4 marked as Compliant by Jose Mari Hall Lanuza.
Criteria 6.5
Proof you meet criteria
If you are the fact-checking unit of a media company, please provide a link to the parent media company’s honest and open corrections policy and provide evidence that it adheres to this.
Rappler
20-Dec-2022 (1 year ago)
Our corrections pages do not just cover the fact check section. They are applied to all content published on Rappler as indicated in the list of corrections published since 2012:
More recent corrections may be accessed here:
https://www.rappler.com/topic/rappler-corrections/
Links to monthly corrections from 2012 to 2020 may be accessed from this page
https://www.rappler.com/bulletin-board/41751-corrections/
This policy is reiterated in our editorial standards and guidelines
https://www.rappler.com/about/standards-guidelines-corrections-fact-check-content-comment-moderation
Jose Mari Hall Lanuza Assessor
26-Aug-2023 (1 year ago) Updated: 1 year ago
Rappler is transparent about how it conducts corrections, and is open to having the public contribute to its corrections. It provides readers avenues for reporting any mistakes in articles and factchecks, and is actively communicating with its readers about all corrections it has published, about calls for factchecking, and about calls for corrections.